The four-day Manchester Village Pride celebration wrapped up over the Bank Holiday weekend, delivering a rain-soaked parade and performances that never dampened spirits. Thousands turned out for the event, which marked the first year under its new name and structure.
A New Chapter for Manchester's Pride
Following last year's event, the company behind what had been known as Manchester Pride went into voluntary liquidation after it was deemed no longer 'financially viable.' Bars and venues in the Gay Village refused to let it die, joining forces with Manchester Council and the Equity union to create a Community Interest Company (CIC). This new body brought the renamed celebration to fruition this year.
With the event returning under the newly established Manchester Village Pride, expectations were high, with many hoping it would get back to its roots in the Gay Village. It did just that. Attendees said it felt like the event had 'come home'—a fitting sentiment given this year's Wizard of Oz and 'No Place Like Home' theme, which was on full display during the parade and throughout the village.
Rain Doesn't Stop the Parade
The parade itself featured heavy showers, but it didn't deter participants or the crowds that swelled the city centre streets. Inspired outfits were everywhere, including those who dialled it up to 100, donning Dorothy, Tin Man, and Cowardly Lion costumes.
In the Gay Village, pop-up stages, car parks turned into arenas, and makeshift platforms provided the staging for the weekend's musical talent. Attendees were treated to sets from B*Witched, Cleopatra, Gareth Gates, Misty Chance, Misha B, Kate Nash, Cascada, Danny Beard, Diana Vickers, Adam Rickitt, DJ Paulette, and many more.
Rain Never Stopped the Party
The rain was a persistent feature, even stopping play for a short period during Sunday afternoon, but it never stopped the party. The image of people embracing the downpours and thunderstorms, dancing in the rain to the sound of Umbrella and It's Raining Main, will be long-lasting in the history of Manchester Pride celebrations.
Notable moments included Coronation Street star Sue Devaney taking part in the ITV Pride float, and Vicky Myers, Catherine Tyldesley, Lucy Fallon, and Julia Goulding from Coronation Street attending the parade. Spice Girls fever was also in the village as the band marked their 30th anniversary.
