Brighton & Hove Pride has announced a dynamic duo of headliners for its 35th anniversary celebration, set to take place on and at Preston Park. Global music icon Diana Ross and multi-BRIT Award-winning artist RAYE will top the bill, marking a significant moment for the festival and the LGBTQ+ community.
Raye, who previously graced the Brighton Pride stage in and , will headline on . The performance comes as she supports her forthcoming second album, This Music May Contain Hope
, due out on . Her recent success, including multiple wins at the 2024 BRIT Awards, has solidified her position as a leading voice in contemporary music. She’ll be performing songs from her debut album, My 21st Century Blues
, as well as her viral hit Escapism
and her recent number one single, Where Is My Husband!
.
Diana Ross, a legendary figure in music history, will make her Brighton Pride debut on , in a UK live show exclusive. Organisers described securing Ross as a “dream come true,” anticipating an unforgettable performance featuring her extensive catalogue of hits, including Ain’t No Mountain High Enough
, Endless Love
, Stop! In The Name of Love
, and I’m Coming Out
.
Paul Kemp, Managing Director of Brighton & Hove Pride, expressed his excitement, stating, “We are beyond thrilled to welcome the phenomenal RAYE and the iconic Ms. Ross as our Pride On The Park 2026 headliners.” He further emphasized the significance of Ross’s appearance, noting, “Her legendary voice and catalogue of hits will be an unforgettable moment in Brighton Pride history.”
The 35th anniversary of Brighton & Hove Pride carries particular weight, as the festival reflects on its origins in during a period when visibility for the LGBTQ+ community faced significant challenges due to legislation like Section 28. This year’s theme, The Power Of Love
, underscores the festival’s commitment to solidarity, resistance, and the ongoing pursuit of equality.
Tickets for Brighton & Hove Pride 2026 will go on general sale at . A pre-sale will be available at the same time on for those who sign up via the official website. The annual LGBTQ+ Community Parade will once again kick off the Pride weekend, embodying the spirit of unity, and celebration.
Brighton & Hove Pride has a rich history of attracting major musical talent, with previous headliners including Mariah Carey, Girls Aloud, Mika, the Black Eyed Peas, Steps, Kylie Minogue, and Britney Spears. This year’s lineup continues that tradition, promising a weekend of vibrant performances and community engagement.
The festival’s organizers highlighted the journey of RAYE, noting her growth since her first performance at Brighton Pride in . They emphasized the extraordinary nature of her career trajectory over the past nine years.
