Celebrate love and belonging this summer with your pick of East Sussex Pride events.
Have you ever been to a Pride event? Maybe you’d like to find out more about how you can get involved? We’ve got all the info you’ll need, including a round-up of local events and what to know before you go.
What is Pride?
Pride events are inclusive, vibrant, and supportive community events celebrating LGBTQ+ (lesbian, gay, bisexual, transgender, queer/or questioning) people. They also spotlight equality and acceptance.
Nationally, Pride month takes place in June, but East Sussex local events take place in July and August.
With a festival feel, events are renowned for their party atmosphere and colourful parades. They’re intended to create a safe, joyful space to support one another, express yourself and show solidarity for LGBTQ+ people everywhere.
In East Sussex, around 15,200 people (3.3% of residents aged 16 years and over) identify as LGB+. Whether you’re a Pride first timer or a returning friend, it’s a fantastic opportunity to show your support.
We asked East Sussex County Council colleagues to share the three top words they use to describe what Pride means to them:
Vicki – inclusion, acceptance and community
Frankie – actively challenging discrimination
Marcus – visibility, dignity, diversity
How did it begin?
Since it began, Pride has been a celebration — and also a protest. Pride was created as an annual reminder of the Stonewall Riots, where LGBTQ+ people fought to change harmful laws, end police brutality and create safe and public spaces for everyone.
The UK’s first Pride march took place in London on 1 July 1972. Pride marches are now annual events worldwide.
Read more about the history of Pride in the UK.
History of Pride in East Sussex
In 1973 the Sussex Gay Liberation Front marched through Brighton, followed by a “Gay Dance” at the Royal Albion Hotel. It wasn’t until 1991 that Pride came back to Brighton.
More regional events have been founded since then. They include Hastings Pride, which celebrated its Launch Party in 2016 and Eastbourne’s first ever Pride event was held the following year. The first Seahaven Pride was in 2021.
Why is it important?
Although Pride is an important time to celebrate the progress that’s been made across law, attitudes and behaviours, it’s also a reminder that barriers do still exist and effect people daily.
LGBTQ+ people can experience inequalities around education, employment, health, housing and hate crime to name just a few. One of the most visible ways to raise awareness of these inequalities is by taking part in Pride parades to celebrate LGBTQ+ voices.
How can I celebrate Pride in East Sussex?
From Brighton to Eastbourne, Hastings to Seaford, no matter where you are in East Sussex this summer there’s a Pride event for everyone. Show your support by attending a Pride event near you:
Eastbourne Pride – Saturday 19 July
Get ready to celebrate love and diversity at Eastbourne Pride. This family friendly and inclusive Pride event is presented by local charity BourneOutLGBT.
The Pride Party held in Princes Park features entertainment and live music. The parade will set off at 10am from Eastbourne Pier and head along the seafront to join the party. Entry to Princes Park is with tickets only (free entry for children 16 and under).
Trans Pride Brighton – Saturday 19 July
Established in 2013, Trans Pride Brighton is the biggest Trans Pride event in Europe. It’s a fun and safe space for trans people, friends, allies, and family to meet and have an amazing time.
Brighton Pride – Saturday 2 & Sunday 3 August
Billed as the country’s most popular Pride event, Brighton Pride 2025 will be held on 2 and 3 August.
Visitors can enjoy the annual LGBTQ+ Community Parade, which travels through the city centre on Saturday, 2 August, the Pride Street Party, and Pride on the Park, with headline acts including Mariah Carey, Sugababes, and Fatboy Slim.
Hastings Pride – Sunday 24 August
Celebrate music, community, and colour on the south coast at Hastings Pride. Free to attend, it includes a parade that sets off from The Stade at 11am, a festival and an after-party.
Organisers recommend the best place to watch the parade is along the seafront from the sea side of the paved area from The Stade, all the way along to the pier. It will give the best and safest vantage points.
Seahaven Pride – Saturday 30 August
Seahaven Pride is a one-day festival held at Seaford’s Martello Fields. It aims to celebrate diversity, raise awareness, educate and support, and promote inclusion and equality throughout the Peacehaven, Newhaven, Seaford and wider Lewes district.
Free children’s tickets are strictly limited to two per adult ticket. Additional children’s tickets need to be purchased. Under-fives go free.
What should I know before I go?
If you’re not a member of the LGBTQ+ communities, but want to show your support, going to Pride can be a fantastic way to do this. If you’re new to Pride, we’ve included some suggestions below to help you get organised ahead of the day and make the most of taking part.
- Research: Look into the specific Pride event you plan to attend. Check its website for details on the parade route, schedule of events, and any guidelines.
- Pack essentials: Bring water and whatever you do, don’t forget your sun protection! Suncream and a hat are essential as it can be a long day without much access to shade. Take cash/card and consider a small bag or backpack to carry your belongings. Check event websites for guidelines around food and drink, as some may have restrictions about what can and can’t be brought in.
- Be respectful: Treat everyone with kindness and respect, regardless of identity or background. Remember that Pride is a celebration of diversity, and it’s important to create a welcoming and inclusive environment.
- Keep an open mind: If you want to know specific things then maybe research them before or after the event. Remember people might not want to answer your questions about their identities and experiences, though they will value you taking part and being a supportive ally.
- Have fun: Embrace the vibrant atmosphere, enjoy the music and performances, and celebrate the spirit of Pride!
