Hundreds of people took to the streets of Chester on Saturday to celebrate Pride 2026. Pride goers marched through the historic city as part of the parade route, with the ECHO capturing happy faces and fantastic costumes from participants and spectators alike.
Parade and Performances
The Pride event continued throughout the afternoon and into the evening, featuring a host of performances on the main stage, sponsored by M&S Bank. Headline performers included drag performer Danny Beard, boyband 911, and former N-Trance singer Kelly Llorenna. Liverpool singer Sonia was also at the event.
Community and Council Support
Warren Lee, Chair of Chester Pride, said ahead of the event: "Chester Pride is very simple and clear in its message; we are a pride event for every part of the community... Chester Pride was created by the LGBT community for the LGBTQ+ community, so your input and continued support is very much appreciated."
Louise Gittins, leader of Cheshire West and Chester Council, added: "Chester Pride reflects the values at the heart of our council and showcases the strength that comes from embracing diversity. It helps build communities where everyone can thrive, where there is respect for all, and where we can look forward with hope for the future... at a time when communities face prejudice and uncertainty just because of who they are, it is more important than ever that we stand together in solidarity."
Gallery Highlights
The ECHO captured 21 pictures from the event, showing a dog in clothes, plenty of flags and banners, happy faces, fiery performances, lots of rainbows, tunes blaring, great outfits, crowds gathered to capture the parade, families attending, thumbs up for the camera, a "ready for take-off" pose, the message that "Pride is for all," people looking good, keeping a rhythm, whistles to the ready, lots of colour, the city centre coming to a standstill, a stunning backdrop, warm embraces, and a party atmosphere.
