Manchester Pride Parade 2024: Full route, start time and where to get the best views

Manchester is set to light up with rainbow colours this August Bank Holiday weekend as the annual Pride Parade returns with a new theme centred on unity, history and progress.

Tens of thousands are expected to descend on Manchester city centre on Saturday 24 August for the 2024 Pride Parade, one of the UK's largest LGBTQ+ celebrations.

This year’s theme, Buzzin’ to Be Queer, A Hive of Progress, draws on the iconic Manchester worker bee symbol, reflecting the city’s legacy of hard work and solidarity. Organisers hope it will bring the community together in a show of “collaboration and change”, inspired by the collective nature of a beehive.

The parade sets off from Liverpool Road at midday, weaving through Deansgate, Peter Street, Oxford Road, Portland Street, Princess Street, and Whitworth Street before concluding around 3pm on Fairfield Street.

The parade's route offers several key vantage points, including along Deansgate and Oxford Road, where early arrivals can claim front-row views. Organisers recommend arriving early, particularly as some sections may not see the parade until as much as 90 minutes after the start, depending on crowd and float timing.

Manchester Pride’s roots trace back to a protest against Section 28 in February 1988, one of the UK’s largest LGBTQ+ demonstrations at the time, and it has since evolved into a vibrant celebration of identity, rights and visibility.

Speaking ahead of the event, Manchester Pride CEO Mark Fletcher said: “This year we will celebrate our theme of ‘Buzzin’ to be Queer, A Hive of Progress’ and see the ‘Progress Bee’ become more than a symbol, instead becoming a call to action. Just like worker bees in a hive, LGBTQ+ communities and allies can influence change when we unite.”

While the parade is the centrepiece of Saturday's events, the wider weekend includes the popular Gay Village Party, which will host performances from artists including Jessie J, Loreen, Sugababes, Rita Ora, and Keala Settle.

According to the Met Office, this year’s parade is likely to see a mixture of sunshine and light showers, with temperatures peaking at 17°C and dropping to 10°C by the evening. Attendees are advised to pack rainproof clothing just in case, especially if watching from exposed parts of the route.

Key information

• Parade date: Saturday 24 August 2024

• Start time: 12pm

• Route: Liverpool Road → Deansgate → Peter Street → Oxford Road → Portland Street → Princess Street → Whitworth Street → Fairfield Street

• Parade length: Approx. 2-3 hours

• Best viewing spots: Deansgate, Peter Street, Oxford Road

• Theme: “Buzzin’ to Be Queer – A Hive of Progress”

Only registered groups are permitted to march, individuals not part of a group must remain spectators.

As ever, security will be tight and accessible viewing areas will be available for those with mobility needs. Organisers encourage anyone needing assistance to plan ahead and check access guidance on the Manchester Pride website.

Following the parade, events continue across the Gay Village and beyond throughout the weekend. Ticketed events, community spaces, and free entertainment are all part of the 2024 Pride programme.