It's hard to believe that Manchester Pride has been around for 18 years - maybe because of it's various guises as Mardi Gras, GayFest, EuroPride and the AbFab Weekend. During that time, it's built itself up to one of the biggest Pride events in the country and is now a registered charity in its own right. This year will be a right old celebration - you can expect the usual fun and frolics in and around Manchester's Gay Village and Canal Street with all the venues doing their utmost to keep that party going all weekend. There'll be stages, and group areas, along with markets and foodstalls. The week's run up to the big weekend will also feature lots of other events - from clubbing and partying through to arts and cultural entertainment.
times:Check nearer the time for details of all the events at Manchester Pride.door tax:Wristband sales will be announced nearer the time.
Friday, 22nd August
My First Pride Exhibition @ Urbis, Manchester
Celebrating ‘My First Pride’ will document over 18 years of ‘first timers at Pride’ held at URBIS one of Manchester’s most iconic buildings. The exhibition will highlight the effect Manchester Pride has had on people’s lives and display the many memories that have been made. view map
times:10am - 6pm.door tax:Free Entry
Military Pride @ Imperial War Museum North, Manchester
Military Pride is a small but powerful display which reveals via portrait photography and personal testimony the experiences of lesbian, gay, bisexual and transgender people within the context of conflict, war and military service. Military Pride will also detail historical context and a timeline of post 1945 legislature and policies within the Armed Forces and is timed to connect with the Manchester Pride Festival. view map
times:10am - 6pm.door tax:Free Entry
Pride Chamber Music @ BBC Manchester, Manchester
A series of lunchtime concerts running throughout Manchester Pride will explore the role of music in the struggles for equality around the world. To mark the 150th anniversary of her birth, the concerts will also feature works by Dame Ethel Smyth, reflecting her activities both as a suffragette and formidable establishment lesbian! Internationally renowned pianist, Stephen Coombs and BBC Radio 3 producer, Les Pratt have devised the series, which will involve well-known and established performers, as well as giving opportunities to local young musicians. view map
times:1pm - 2pm.door tax:Donations on the door
Closer Look for Pride @ Imperial War Museum North, Manchester
A short gallery tour which focuses on the hidden histories of Lesbian, Gay, Bisexual and Transgender communities in periods of war and peacekeeping. The tour will explore the Imperial's Military Pride exhibition, a display of portrait photography and personal testimonies, revealing the stories and experiences of gay service people. view map
We love Vanilla - and you will too with this opening party getting you into the Pride mood with DJ Murray. There's also an outside bar and extra loos too - the best place for girls to be at Manchester Pride. view map
times:Open 2pm until late - arrive early - it's always packed!
Ease your way into the big Pride weekend with this easy, cheesy, fun night out with all your favourite tunes with Marvin. view map
times:2pm til late
LGBT Heritage Trail @ Manchester Visitor Information Centre, Manchester
The Out In The Past Heritage Trail explores the twists and turns of over 200 years of lesbian and gay history and takes in many of the city's concealed secrets. Learn how the resolve and courage of many pioneering citizens resulted in a number of hidden quarters, where together they could express their sexuality freely. Your tour guide will give a fascinating insight into the times when the simple right to decide upon the nature of personal relationships was denied. A must for everyone who has an interest in what life used to be like and a poignant reminder of how times have now changed and explores the twists and turns that have led to a lifestyle we can openly enjoy in 2008. view map
times:For more information on trail times and meeting points, please call 0871 222 8223 or you can also email
door tax:£5 per person. For bookings, call 0871 222 8223.
Taurus Café Bar & Restaurant