With the year 2015 so far proving to be a revolutionary bookmark in LGBTQ history, from the likes of global ground-breaking political rulings to topical music whoppers and influential cinematic stonkers, it would seem only right to get yourselves gallivanting at an annual Gay Pride event if you haven't already. UK-famous for its long-standing background in accepting and endorsing equality and diversity, the cosmopolitan seaside city of Brighton certainly knows how to do Pride, so waste no time in shooting down this August to this sure to be fun-fuelled fiesta.
Celebrating its 25th year, here is set to be the biggest Brighton Pride that Britain's ever seen, so come expecting an uber-uplifting and empowering atmosphere complete with colour-happy parade, a marathon of music, and of course a hefty handful of scantily-clad lads and lasses. Sound like a laugh? We want you guys to be party-prepped for this vibrant summer showcase, so check out our five top tips that will have you guys and gals more than ready and raring to get your rave on in style.
Who To See?
The stunning Orange Is the New Black star Ruby Rose will be sure to be spinning for you lot a heady-hot music mix.
Awash with white-hot music talent from pop songster Ella Henderson and long-time famed music producer Fatboy Slim taking to the stages, you and your buds will no doubt be immersed in mega music mayhem from start 'til finish. But besides these bangers, we'd really suggest making time to see lesbian icon superstar Ruby Rose from American TV, comedy sensation Orange Is the New Black. Headlining both the Women’s Dance Tent at Preston Park and the Koochy Official Brighton Pride After Party for Girls at Concorde 2, multi-talented DJ Ruby Rose will be spinning the decks to a rocking crowd, where a rip-roaring atmosphere will no doubt be tearing through the d-floor.
Where To Find Fancy Dress?
It may be too early to be letting out the Halloween zombies, but you'll get your hands on the wackiest wear in this niche and nutty outfit.
A festival such as Pride would not be nearly as great without all the fantastical fancy dress floating about the streets, not to mention the Parade which is just packed with everything from fluffy feathers and shimmering sequins to sexy uniforms or, indeed, the lack of. Brighton's Revamp Fancy Dress Boutique is the ideal retail retreat, where from their wide and wonderful wardrobe you'll be able to buy or hire your desired dress for this oh so camp occasion. So soak up the true spirit of Pride and get dolled up as you don anything from a saucy nurse outfit to an innocent angel; and don't go forgetting to douse yourself in a generous dollop of glitter and face paint.
Where To Watch The Parade?
Spectate and cheer under the shadow of the Royal Pavilion on the beachside at the Brighton Pride march.
Anywhere around this coastal city is sure to be a sweet-as spot to enjoy spectating this bubbly buzz of an event, but with the iconic and exotic Royal Pavilion palace being conveniently en route, it would be worth your while to pick a place around the gardens here and wave those staple rainbow flags. Equally, since it looks likely to be a sunshine-steeped weekend, alternatively amble on over to the beautiful beachfront and delight in this dynamic and sparkly procession straight from the start-line.
Where To After(noon) Party?
Within that arms-in-the-air atmosphere, get those hips shaking and feet kicking on Patterns' terrace overlooking the sizzling sunset.
On the sunny-smasher Saturday from 3pm 'til 9pm, carousers carry your up-for-it party attitude over to the Free Pride Terrace Party hosted by hip-happy, Art Deco-inspired Patterns drinking den. Here you'll be in summertime bliss as you guzzle away with the gang on a quirky collection of craft beers and colourful cocktails, before boogieing alfresco in the name of equality. Thanks to the likes of DJs Affy Go Bang, Kate Wildblood and Queen Josephine hotting up the decks, no doubt you'll be stomping your feet to an epic track-list of old-school disco grooves and house music classics, so start throwing some shapes folks.
Where To Go Sunday?
Revel all-day in botanical-themed paradise bar Neighbourhood located in the heart of the Pride Village Party.
Ensure to bring your A-game for a Sunday scorcher to say a fond farewell to Pride 'til next year as you and your female cronies carouse the day away at the Official Brighton Pride Girls Weekender Garden Party. Creative and nifty Neighbourhood tavern is proud to open up its doors for an atmospheric alfresco affair, showcasing a stellar set-list of DJs from Lady Lola, Maze & Masters and Ellie Cocks to Sami, SummerDaze and Alpha who will have the holiday-happening garden bursting with upbeat vibes as they play everything from deep house and soul to techno with a dash of D&B. Please note entry is free, but you will require a £5 Pride Village Party wristband to get on St. James Street. Enjoy!
