**How Pride Cymru Transformed: From a Quiet Protest to Wales’ Largest Celebration of Diversity**
In June 1985, a handful of individuals took to the streets of Cardiff for the very first time in what would later become a cornerstone moment in Welsh social history. The initial Pride march, which reportedly attracted fewer than 100 participants, was marked by an overwhelming police presence compared to the number of those marching. Despite these modest beginnings, few could have anticipated the remarkable transformation that would unfold over the next 40 years.
Fast forward to 2025, and Pride Cymru now stands as the largest annual parade in Cardiff, drawing tens of thousands into the heart of the city to celebrate diversity, equality, and LGBTQ+ representation. The festival, which has become a major fixture in the Welsh calendar, is set to mark the 40th anniversary of that first, tentative protest march with what is expected to be its biggest event yet.
Central to this year’s celebrations are some of the original participants from 1985, who will be leading Saturday’s parade through Cardiff. They will be joined by members of the trans community, marching together at a time when concerns regarding the rollback of rights are being voiced, particularly in the wake of a recent Supreme Court ruling. The procession will begin outside the historic Angel Hotel and will weave through the city centre, forming a visible and vibrant reminder of both the progress achieved and the challenges that remain.
Looking back, there have been several defining milestones. The late 1990s saw the birth of Cardiff’s Mardi Gras festival, which debuted in 1999 with around 2,000 attendees. This event paved the way for the rebranding to Pride Cymru, which has gone from strength to strength in the years since. By 2019, Pride Cymru was attracting an estimated 50,000 visitors, a far cry from the handful in 1985, signalling not just greater acceptance, but a shift towards widespread celebration and solidarity.
Pride Cymru is not simply a weekend event; it is an organisation dedicated to supporting LGBTQ+ communities across Wales year-round. Its mission extends beyond the parade, seeking to tackle discrimination based on gender and sexuality through advocacy and support initiatives. Such continual efforts aim to foster inclusivity and understanding, even as debates and opposition persist in wider society.
Over the decades, Pride Cymru’s Big Weekend has evolved into a colourful extravaganza, filled with music, comedy, drag performances, and family-friendly activities. Previous events have seen notable performances, such as Charlotte Church’s headline show in 2017, and crowd-pleasing acts bringing together people from all walks of life. The festival now sees not only the LGBTQ+ community but also allies, businesses, and a range of local organisations come together in the spirit of unity and pride.
Despite its growth and popularity, Pride Cymru has also faced its share of challenges. In recent years, anti-trans protesters have attempted to disrupt the celebrations, highlighting the continued need for vigilance and advocacy for equality. Nonetheless, the event has consistently championed the motto that ‘love is love’, standing firm in the face of adversity and fostering an atmosphere where everyone is welcome.
The impact of Pride Cymru extends beyond the parade and festivities. Its annual events have become a vital space for education, awareness, and political advocacy. By providing a platform for conversations about identity, rights, and acceptance, the festival plays a crucial role in shaping attitudes across Welsh society.
As Cardiff readies itself for another dazzling display of rainbow flags, live performances, and exuberant celebration on 21 and 22 June, organisers invite everyone to join, whether as marchers, supporters or spectators. Further details, including tickets, parade routes, and a full roster of performances, can be found on the official Pride Cymru website.
This year’s Pride Cymru encapsulates four decades of progress, struggle, and joy. It stands as a testament to the power of collective action, community, and the enduring belief that every individual deserves the right to march in safety and with pride, no matter who they are or whom they love.