Leeds Pride recently announced ambitious plans for the city’s 2024 festival, which is to take place in July.
Not only will this year’s celebration be the largest in scale with the likes of Call Lane joining the party, but a week-long calendar of events will ensure nobody misses the fun. Headlining the main stage on Sunday, July 21 is world class DJ and chart-topping artist Sonique.
The Brit Award Winning artist is famous for a string of dancefloor hits, including her platinum selling no1 single It Feels So Good. X-Factor winner and Clean Bandit collaborator Louisa Johnson is also set to perform, as well as a myriad of the fiercest Yorkshire drag acts.
Other highlights include ’90s dance legends Baby D and Alex Party, a Madonna tribute act and DJ sets from Defected Records‘ Monki and Joel Mignott. Partygoers will also be able to enjoy increased set times, with this year’s calendar of acts performing between noon – 10pm.
Organisers have listened to feedback from last year’s event and increased the facilities throughout the city including more food vendors, bars and the finest street food within the site. Just like previous years, Leeds Pride is a free event, which has been made possible with support from both local and national businesses.
This year’s headline sponsor is none other than Jet2holidays, who have a strong presence in the city and have long been proud supporters of the LGBTQ+ community. Other sponsors include Sky, First Buses, Direct Line, Evri and the return of Sainsbury’s. Head to www.leedspride.com for full list and to find out how you can get involved.
Many businesses across the city are getting on board by creating their own fringe events, including Everyman Cinema which will be screening the feel-good British classic Pride on the July 18.
Those looking to start the celebrations early can make a weekend of it by attending the Viaduct Street Party on Saturday, July 20. Kicking off in the afternoon from 1pm, they’ll be offering entertainment from their main stage hosted by TV legend Kim Woodburn until the early hours.
Terry George, Leeds Pride’s spokesperson, said: “It’s just incredible to see how far we’ve come since the very first Leeds Pride back in 2006. With more allies than ever before – not to mention the biggest site the festival has ever seen – 2024 is looking likely to be a record-breaker in terms of numbers. Pride is truly the most colourful event in the city’s annual events calendar and this year’s live acts are just as impressive and diverse as the community itself.’’
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