Shoppers and runners alike are gearing up as Newcastle Frontrunners brings back its popular 5k Pride Run, with Olympic legend Dame Kelly Holmes firing the starting gun to launch Newcastle Pride weekend , a feel‑good celebration of inclusion, community and running for all abilities.

Essential Takeaways

  • Headline act: Dame Kelly Holmes will start and join the 5k Pride Run in Leazes Park on Friday 24 July.
  • Event details: Main 5k has 450 places; a one‑mile Children’s Pride Run follows the same park loop.
  • Community focus: Proceeds support Be, a North East charity working with trans people.
  • Practical perks: All entrants receive a medal and goody bag; prizes for male, female and non‑binary categories plus fancy dress.
  • How to join: Businesses can enter teams or volunteer to support the event and Pride weekend.

A bright, buzzy way to kick off Pride weekend

The image of an Olympic champion raising a starter’s pistol gives the run real colour , you can almost hear the starter’s crack and the cheer. Newcastle Frontrunners, the city’s LGBTQIA+ running club, has organised the 5k in Leazes Park for more than a decade, and Dame Kelly Holmes’ involvement raises the profile even further. It’s as much a community parade as it is a race, with a friendly, celebratory atmosphere that’s perfect if you’re doing this as a group or your first timed 5k.

Why Dame Kelly Holmes joining matters

Having an iconic athlete who’s also an LGBTQ+ ally adds gravitas and visibility to the event. Organisers say it’s not just about speed: her presence underlines the message that sport and running belong to everyone. That matters in a city where Pride is a major cultural moment, and it helps attract local businesses and partners who want to be part of something inclusive and public‑facing.

What the event actually looks like , and how to take part

The main race is a single 5k loop around Leazes Park, with 450 places available, and there’s a children’s one‑mile loop for younger runners. Expect medals, goody bags, and light competition with prizes for the first three finishers across male, female and non‑binary categories , plus a prize for best fancy dress, which always brings the laughs. If you’re coming with workmates, form a team; if you want to help, volunteer positions are available and are an easy way for businesses to show support.

Who benefits , and why the charity tie‑in matters

Proceeds will go to Be, a charity that supports trans people across the North East, so every entry fee is also a small act of support. Events like this raise money and normalise inclusion in sport, creating a ripple effect beyond race day. For parents thinking about kids’ activities, the junior loop is a safe, short option that introduces younger runners to community sport in a fun setting.

Tips for a smooth Pride Run experience

If you plan to run, pick footwear you’ve already broken in and arrive early to get a good spot on the start line; Leazes Park can get lively. Fancy dress is welcome, but keep costumes light and safe for running. If you’re volunteering, bring layers , late July can be warm in the sun and cool in the shade. Finally, if you want a keepsake, arrive with a small phone or camera; there’ll be plenty of colourful moments.

It’s a small change to your summer plans that packs a big, inclusive cheer , perfect for runners, spectators and anyone who wants to celebrate Pride in motion.

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