Ads help us keep this site online
17th August 2025
Posted by Johnny Jenkins
Basildon is gearing up for one of the brightest, boldest celebrations of the year. On Saturday 6th September 2025, Basildon Sporting Village will once again be transformed into a sea of colour, music, and solidarity as Basildon Pride Festival returns; bigger, louder, and prouder than ever.
Now in its seventh year, the festival has become much more than a day out. It’s a living, breathing reminder that in the face of prejudice and division, Basildon stands Together for Love; the theme for this year’s event.
A Parade of Pride
The day kicks off with the Pride Parade at 11am, setting off from the familiar landmark of the old Toys ’R’ Us building in the town centre. Expect rainbow flags, glitter, and a wave of joy as the parade winds its way through the centre before spilling into Gloucester Park, lead by our Queen of the Parade Essex based Cheryl the Queen, star of BBC RuPaul’s Drag Race UK.
A Festival for Everyone
At the heart of the park, the Main Stage is where the magic happens, sponsored by c2c. This year’s line-up promises show-stopping drag and dazzling tribute acts, headlined by none other than La Voix, the powerhouse performer known for glamour, comedy, and jaw-dropping vocals who stormed RuPaul’s Drag Race UK and now selected as a contestant on BBC’s Strictly Come Dancing. Across the way, the Gateway 97.8 Stage will pulse with local talent, bringing a community flavour to the day.
But the festival isn’t just about music. Visitors can wander through the bustling Marketplace, tuck into flavours at the Food Court, or take a breather in the Chill Out Zone. For those eager to dig deeper into what Pride means, the Discovery Hub offers a thoughtful space to explore LGBTQ+ history, rights, and local activism.
When the Sun Goes Down…
As night falls, the party doesn’t stop. The Official Basildon Pride After Party takes over The Loft from 9pm until 3am, featuring DJ sets from Sarah Hall and a headline performance by Cheryl the Queen (RuPaul’s Drag Race UK). Tickets are already in hot demand; just £7.50 if booked in advance, or £10 on the door.
More Than a Festival
Basildon Pride was born out of adversity in 2018, a response to intolerance that instead sparked a movement. Since then, it has grown into one of Essex’s most cherished celebrations of diversity. Each year, it unites thousands of people — LGBTQ+ and allies alike — with one message: love conquers hate.
Alex Davis, Festival Director of Basildon Pride, said:
“Pride in Basildon has always been about more than just celebration — it’s about visibility, solidarity, and creating a safe, joyful space where everyone feels they belong. This year’s theme, ‘Together for Love,’ reflects the spirit of our community and the power of coming together, no matter who you are or who you love. We can’t wait to welcome everyone back to Basildon Sporting Village in September.”
Why It Matters
In a time when LGBTQ+ communities still face challenges, Pride festivals remain as vital as ever. They are spaces of joy, but also resilience; parties with purpose. And Basildon Pride, free to attend and fiercely community-driven, is a shining example of what happens when a town chooses inclusivity.
Join the Movement
Mark your calendars for Saturday 6 September 2025. Whether you’re marching in the parade, cheering from the sidelines, dancing in the park, or partying long into the night — Basildon Pride welcomes you.
Because this is more than a festival.
This is Basildon, standing #TogetherForLove.