What time is the London Pride parade? Start time, route map and how to join the 2023 LGBT+ festival

Get your rainbow flags at the ready, London Pride weekend is almost here and its going to be a good one.

The tradition has been going for decades, and celebrates everything LGBTQIA+ in the capital.

The website describes it as “The UK’s biggest, most diverse Pride. A home for every part of London’s LGBT+ community.”

Here’s what you need to know to have a fun-filled weekend.

What time does the parade start?

The London Pride Parade, which aims to bring members of the community together and under the spotlight while allowing supporters to cheer them on, will take place on 1 July.

The march, attended by 600 LGBT+ community groups, will start from Hyde Park corner at midday and terminate at Whitehall Place at 6pm.

The website reads: Pride in London is a Community Interest Company, solely run by volunteers. The organisation and event is funded by donations, fundraising and partnerships with organisations. The event this year will cost £1.7m to produce. If you would like to donate to Pride in London please click here to help keep the event free.”

It continues: “The parade will see around 600 groups made up from LGBT+ Community Groups, LGBT+ businesses, and partners, forming together to make our total over 32,000 participants. As usual, the Mayor of London will be leading the parade!”

What route will it take?

The parade will start at Hyde Park Corner and make its way through Piccadilly Circus, down Haymarket and along Pall Mall to Trafalgar Square before reaching its final stop, Whitehall Place.

Below is a map of the route this year, which is the same as the one in 2022.

How can I take part?

Those wanting to take part in the parade can do so with one of the groups marching, or watch from along the route. Applications to take part as an independent participant have sold out.

People can also hang out at any of the four stages being set up for various performances, entertainers and speakers – with Adam Lambert, Idina Menzel and Todrick Hall among stars making main-stage appearances in Trafalgar Square.

What stages are there?

The site says: “Get ready to be blown away by the vibrant celebration of diversity at Pride in London! We are thrilled to present a captivating lineup of talented artists who represent the true beauty of our rainbow family. Brace yourself for an extraordinary showcase of performances that will leave you in awe. And guess what? All stages are absolutely free! So make sure you seize the day and immerse yourself in the incredible artistry on display.

“The festivities kick off at 12pm and continue throughout the day with performances scheduled at various times. Remember, entry to all areas of the event is on a first come, first served basis. So don’t miss out!”

Trafalgar Square Stage

Hosts Will Njobvu and Michael Twaits will introduce world-class acts and entertainment including headliner Adam Lambert and acts Idina Menzel, Todrick Hall.

LGBTQIA Women and Non Binary Stage

This is hosted by the Dynamic Duo, Krystal Lake and Christian Adore, and “is a haven for LGBTQIA women and non-binary individuals”.

Golden Square Stage

Here you can enjoy performers brought together by Cocoa Butter Club and Club Kali.

Soho Square Stage

This trans-led stage is curated by performer and activist, Mzz Kimberley.

Dean Street Stage

Drag king, LoUis CYfer, and drag queen, Victoria Scone lead an incredible lineup of over 25 cabaret artists.

Family Area

There is a dedicated space at St Giles-in-the-Field for families, with activities, performances and games.