Oldham Pride set to return to the town centre

Oldham Pride returns for another fun day of celebration in a borough that continues to show love, support and solidarity for the LGBTQ+ community.

With Fifi, the iconic big pink owl, having undergone another fabulous makeover and glow-up ready for the parade, it's time to put on your glad rags, strut your stuff through town and celebrate how what once began as a protest has become a party with purpose. 

The Oldham Pride team has been working tirelessly behind the scenes to make this year's event possible. Thanks to generous support from organisations including The National Lottery Heritage Fund, Action Together, MIO Care, Oldham Council, Forever Manchester, local businesses, pubs and other community partners, this year's celebrations have been largely self-funded through grants and sponsorship. 

But Oldham Pride is about far more than celebration. 

Pride has always been rooted in protest. While it celebrates the progress that has been made, it also recognises there is still work to do in the fight for equality.  

The event brings together communities from across the borough to educate, inspire and send a clear message that there is no place for hate or division in Oldham. It is an opportunity to stand together, demand better for LGBTQ+ people and celebrate the freedom to love without fear, oppression or judgement. 

Interim Chair Louie Hamblett said: "Many in the LGBTQ+ community are already living in fear and looking for support. We provide a safe space for LGBTQ+ people throughout the year and continue to fight to protect the rights and progress we have achieved. This was reflected in our recent Tip Toe event, where we heard first-hand the concerns people have about the pressures they face every day." 

Interim Vice Chair Robert Dobson added: "We're incredibly grateful for the support we've received and proud of how much Oldham Pride has grown over the years. Every year is a huge team effort, and seeing the community come together makes it all worthwhile. We hope to continue growing and welcome anyone who would like to join the team and help make future Pride events even bigger and better." 

The Pride Parade will set off from outside the former Tommyfield Market Hall entrance on Saturday, July 11 at 12 noon-5.30pm, making its way through the town centre before arriving at Parliament Square at approximately 12.45pm. 

Following the parade, attendees can enjoy speeches from the Mayor of Oldham, Cllr Pam Byrne and other guest speakers before the celebrations continue with live entertainment, market stalls, community organisations, family-friendly activities and plenty of fun for all ages.