Thousands gathered in the Welsh capital this weekend as Pride Cymru returned to Cardiff, marking a landmark 40 years since the city’s first-ever Pride march.
The celebration kicked off with a colourful and spirited parade—described as the biggest in the event’s history—led by participants who marched in the inaugural event back in 1985. Starting outside the Angel Hotel at 11 a.m., the two-mile procession wound through the city centre, taking in Castle Street, St Mary Street, Queen Street, and more before concluding near Coopers Field in Bute Park. There, two full days of live entertainment, performances, and community events are underway.
This year’s Pride carries special significance—not only for its milestone anniversary but also for its renewed political focus. With LGBTQ+ rights under scrutiny in the UK and abroad, organisers and attendees have emphasised that the event remains as much a protest as it is a celebration.
“Pride Cymru 2025 is more than a celebration—it’s a statement,” said Gian Molinu, Chair of Pride Cymru. “We’re proud to bring our community back to Coopers Field to stand together, raise our voices, and show the world that hate has no home in Wales.”
He added: “Many people don’t realise that Pride Cymru is entirely volunteer-led. While the event has grown tremendously over the past 26 years, our purpose remains unchanged: to stand up for our community, celebrate who we are, and create a safe and joyful space for everyone.”
Protest Momentarily Halts Parade
Despite the upbeat atmosphere, the parade faced a brief disruption when protesters from Cymru Queers for Palestine staged a demonstration near Cardiff Castle. A group lay down in the road, temporarily halting the procession.
Hannah, a spokesperson for the group, said: “We are here because we have tried multiple times to negotiate with Pride Cymru to end their complicity in the occupation and genocide in Palestine. We will not stop until Pride Cymru has no ties to the Israeli war machine.”
Spectators reported mixed reactions. One attendee, Cal, commented: “Pride has always been a protest. There’s a shared struggle in the fight for liberation, and this protest speaks to that. But I don’t think everyone here understands or welcomes it.”
Organisers swiftly rerouted the parade, and the event continued largely uninterrupted.
A Joyous and Inclusive Celebration
Earlier rain did little to dampen spirits, as thousands lined the streets in vibrant attire to celebrate the diversity and resilience of the LGBTQ+ community.
Among the revellers was Beth Cates, who underscored the growing importance of visibility. “It’s getting more and more important,” she said. “Voices of hate—homophobes, transphobes—they’re getting louder, and we need to make sure ours are louder still. It’s not wrong to be a person.”
This year’s entertainment at Coopers Field features chart-topping artists including Ella Henderson, Shola Ama, Una Healy, and Sonique, alongside drag performers, comedians, and grassroots talent from across Wales.
As Cardiff marks four decades since its first Pride—with fewer than 100 marchers and more police than participants—it’s clear that the movement has grown in scale, confidence, and cultural importance. From a handful of brave pioneers in 1985 to today’s vibrant celebration of identity and solidarity, Pride Cymru 2025 stands as both a tribute to the past and a rallying cry for the future.
