Fortnight of events revealed for 2023 Bristol Pride

Organisers of one of the UK's largest pride events is getting ready to welcome record numbers for 2023

Author: Oliver MorganPublished 9th Jun 2023
Last updated 15th Jun 2024

In just over two weeks' time, the award-winning Bristol Pride kicks off in style - and ahead of the Charity's fortnight of events, they've released the full line-up.

Between June 24 and July 8, over 40 events will be taking place to celebrate Pride in Bristol, with theatre, music, boat tours, circus, comedy, talks, cinema, workshops, performance, Drag Queen Bingo, dance, and more happening across the city.

Last year, Pride Day alone welcomed 40,000 people - with 20,000 getting involved with the Pride March - and this year, one of the largest pride events in the UK is set to expect record numbers for 2023.

This time round, the Parade March departs from Castle Park (Band Stand Entrance) at 10:45am for a 2 mile march through Cabot Circus and on to the Harbourside via Baldwin Street on July 8th.

What's on at Bristol Pride 2023

The Pride Dog Show returns on Sunday 2nd July in Castle Park, which sees canine companions limbering-up to compete in rounds such as waggiest tail and musical sit.

The LGBT+ History Boat Tour will be sailing along the harbourside on Sunday 2nd July, with tour guides from Outstories Bristol bringing an insightful history lesson highlighting the city’s LGBT+ past.

On Thursday 29 June, the Bristol Pride Circus Night acts as a 'spellbinding fundraiser', with LGBTQ+ performers showing off their contemporary circus skills and performances.

The Pride Comedy Night on Friday 7th July takes place at the historic Bristol Old Vic Theatre this year, with Bristolian Comedian, and Strictly star, Jayde Adams hosting the evening of hilarious acts with Josh Jones, Heidi Regan, Sam Lake, and Charlie George performing.

A selection of performances at The Wardrobe Theatre will be there to let you catch shows such as the 'hilarious' Stag King, plus other incredible improv, drag and comedy shows.

The Bristol Pride Film Festival, Queer Vision, returns with a showcase of incredible LGBT+ films at Watershed, The Cube, and a special outdoor screening with live performances of the 1966 classic Cabaret at The Trinity.

Pride Day at The Downs - July 8th

The full roster of artists for the Main Stage has also been announced, with Scissor Sisters frontman Jake Shears headlining this year's festival, whilst Aussie Icon, Natalie Imbruglia, will be taking over the Afternoon Legends slot on the Bristol Pride Main Stage.

Other acts announced include Girls Aloud Star Nadine Coyle, 90s dance sensation Alison Limerick, and synth pop ‘Hypnotized’ singer Sophie and the Giants.

The expanded lineup also includes 5Star lead singer Denise Pearson, live dance band Rhythm of the 90s, the incredible Dolly Parton Experience, uplifting local choir Sing Out Bristol, and art-pop performer Newtion.

The star-studded Cabaret stage already has a 30-strong line-up, with headline performances from Rupaul’s Drag Race Winner, Ra’jah O’Hara alongside Drag Race UK fan favourite Tia Kofi and a special guest appearance from The Traitors UK star Amanda.

Bristol Pride Day remains a donation entry festival, ensuring that it remains financially accessible for everyone who wants to attend Pride, however, organisers are asking all those that can afford to, to pick up a Supporter Wristbands for this year’s event.

You can find out more about those here and read the full line-up of events on the Bristol Pride website.

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