Thousands of campaigners and activists marched through central London on Saturday for the 54th annual Pride in London parade, with an estimated one million spectators lining the route. Mayor of London Sir Sadiq Khan led the procession from Hyde Park Corner to Whitehall Place via Piccadilly, chanting “Happy Pride” at the front of the march.
Record Participation and Star Power
Organisers confirmed that more than 35,000 marchers from over 600 groups took part in the parade. The event's main stage in Trafalgar Square is rumoured to feature a surprise appearance by Madonna, according to reports. Headliner MNEK, a Grammy-nominated singer-songwriter and LGBTQ icon from Lewisham, is scheduled to perform.
Spectators donned rainbow colours, carried Pride flags, and used fans to keep cool on a hot sunny day. Participants showcased creative and flamboyant outfits, including wings and rainbow-themed accessories. Motorbikes decorated with Pride flags were also part of the procession.
Campaigns and Criticism
LGBT+ campaigners used the parade to highlight ongoing issues, criticising organisations such as FIFA for “doing nothing” about 11 countries that ban gay footballers from the World Cup. The parade, which started at 12pm and will finish at 6pm, attracted cheers from the crowd as floats passed by.
Pride in London continues to be a major event for the LGBTQ+ community, drawing hundreds of thousands to celebrate and advocate for equal rights.
