Birmingham’s celebration of all things LGBTQ+ returns this weekend (September 24 & 25). Birmingham Pride 2022 is set to be the biggest ever, so there is plenty of reason to wave your flags whether a part of the community or simply an ally. It might be one of the UK’s latest Pride parties of the year, but don’t expect energy levels to dip. Celebrations should be as vibrant, flamboyant and energetic as ever. So we’ve broken down what you can expect, and what you can get up to, at this year’s Birmingham Pride.
GoBoat Drag Bingo
If you can’t wait for the weekend to celebrate Birmingham Pride 2022, then GoBoat is teaming up with The Flapper bar a day before (September 23). Brummie icon Yshee Black will host an evening of boat rides, drag bingo and bottomless booze on Birmingham’s waterways. The one-off, self-driven boat journey will set off from Brindleyplace and head around the Port Loop, before mooring up outside The Flapper. Once docked, guests can tuck into a bottomless brunch followed by a game of Drag Bingo and enjoy hilarious performances too. Get your tickets here.
Birmingham Pride Parade
Probably the most important aspect. The Birmingham Pride Parade march is a statement for equality and justice, as well as a celebration of the LGBTQ+ community’s contribution to the city. The march remains a relevant and vital part of pride, a protest against the injustices still plaguing LGBTQ+ people around the world. It will contain ten of thousands of participants, walking, marching or aboard decorated floats. While it is expected to be enjoyed by more than 75,000 spectators lining the street. Free for all to attend, the Birmingham Pride parade will start at Centenary Square at 11am (September 24) and make its way to the Gay Village for the main festival activities.
Smithfield Live
Birmingham Pride 2022’s party celebrations take place at the new location of Smithfield this year – which also provided a home for the Commonwealth Games – with three unique stages available. Becky Hill and 90s icons Steps will headline the Main Stage on the Saturday and Sunday respectively. While you can expect the likes of Lisa Maffia, Catz ‘N Dogz and Heidi to take over the Dance Arena across the weekend. The legendary Conrad Guest Cabaret Stage will also make a triumphant appearance with a slew of the best UK drag talent and cabaret performers. To purchase your ticket head here.
The Street Party
Following the success of last year, the Street Party returns around Hurst Street, providing people with access to our favourite LGBTQ+ bars and clubs, including Equator, The Fox, The Loft, Missing Bar, Nightingale Club and Sidewalk Bar. Each bar and club will host individual Birmingham Pride events. While you can expect cabaret, live entertainment and more, over the festival weekend. As before, the Street Party will include a selection of street food vendors including vegetarian and vegan options and a mix of community and commercial market stalls. To check out individual events head here.