Shoppers and music-lovers are already planning their Pride weekends as Brighton Pride’s Pride on the Park returns to Preston Park, with full set times revealed and big-name headliners across two days , here’s who’s performing, what’s new and how to make the most of the 35th anniversary celebration.

Essential Takeaways

  • When and where: Pride on the Park runs in Preston Park across Saturday 1 and Sunday 2 August, gates opening midday Saturday and 1pm Sunday.
  • Big names: Saturday’s main-stage headliner is RAYE, while Diana Ross closes Sunday night. Expect Jessie J, Leigh-Anne, Self Esteem, Paris Hilton and FIVE among others.
  • New stages: Two fresh stages arrive , the MELT Stage for electronic talent and the intimate Outro Stage for late-night vibes.
  • Practical bits: No re-entry, last entry at 7pm (Sat) and 6pm (Sun); plan set-time arrivals if you’ve got specific acts to catch.
  • Community impact: Pride on the Park is Brighton & Hove Pride’s main fundraiser for local LGBTQ+ groups, so tickets support more than just the music.

Who tops the bill and why it matters

RAYE headlines Saturday and Diana Ross closes Sunday , that pairing says a lot about the weekend’s tone, from current pop chart firepower to classic soul and showmanship. RAYE brings a punchy, contemporary set likely to include smash hits such as WHERE IS MY HUSBAND!, while Diana Ross promises a glamorous, singalong finale. Organisers are clearly balancing festival energy with celebratory nostalgia, so whether you want to dance all afternoon or soak up an iconic voice at dusk, there’s something for you.

According to the official announcements, the event is part of Brighton & Hove Pride’s 35th anniversary programme, which makes the weekend feel both festive and meaningful. Tickets and exact set times were published in the official schedule, so mark your chosen acts and get there early , main-stage slots fill up fast.

The new stages: MELT and Outro , what to expect

This year adds two stages with distinct personalities. MELT is pitched as the electronic hub , think cutting-edge DJs, a carnival atmosphere and unexpected drops, all with a cheeky ice-cream-van backdrop. If your thing is underground house, techno or leftfield club sets, MELT is where you’ll discover new favourites and feel the bass in your bones.

Outro is designed to close out the weekend on a more intimate note, with close-up DJ sets and late-night favourites. Practically, these stages let you escape the busiest areas without missing high-quality programming. For itinerary planning, slot in an hour at MELT for discovery and an Outro set to wind down your evening.

Full-day highlights and must-see set times

The Main Stage runs packed schedules both days. Saturday opens with Moonchild Sanelly and moves through Leigh-Anne, RuPaul’s DJ set, G Flip, Self-Esteem and Jessie J before RAYE at 9pm. Sunday begins with Pale Waves and features Mel C’s DJ set, Holly Johnson, Paris Hilton and FIVE ahead of Diana Ross at 8.30pm. Other stages host everything from cabaret and queer club favourites to disco-heavy sets , Purple Disco Machine and Armand Van Helden are among the notable DJ bookings on secondary stages.

Given no re-entry and strict last-entry cut-offs, treat set times like train timetables: if you absolutely can’t miss a headliner, aim to arrive at least 30–45 minutes before their slot, more if you want a good spot. And keep a small plan B in case crowds or queues slow you down.

How to plan your Pride weekend like a pro

First, check the official Brighton Pride channels for the full stage maps and final timetable , organisers update social feeds with any late changes. Next, wear layers and pack a small bag with essentials: water bottle, sunnies, a rain layer, comfy shoes and portable charger. Consider meeting points in Preston Park because phone signal can get patchy in big crowds.

If you’re going for fundraising spirit, arrive early to visit community stalls , Pride on the Park funds local LGBTQ+ groups, and stalls are a good way to support causes directly. Finally, plan transport ahead: late-night returns fill quickly, so book shared transport or study bus timetables if you’re leaving after Diana Ross.

What to look forward to and a little local colour

The line-up mixes pop chart presence, queer culture staples and dancefloor favourites, which makes Brighton Pride feel like both a big festival and a very Brighton celebration. Expect colourful outfits, street parties across the city and a parade that still anchors the weekend’s community spirit. Organisers have stressed accessibility and community fundraising, and the programming reflects those priorities , loud, proud and inclusive.

If you’re undecided, pick one day for friends and one for discovery: Saturday for contemporary pop and party energy, Sunday for iconic performances and more chilled, anthemic moments. Either way, your weekend will be part of a long-running local tradition that supports real grassroots groups.

It's a small change that can make every Pride moment safer and more joyful , plan your day, leave room to dance, and enjoy the soundtrack.

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