Swindon & Wiltshire Pride returns this Saturday, 15 August, with a free day of music, entertainment and celebration expected to draw thousands of people into the town centre and GWR Park.
Among the highlights will be a performance from Girls Aloud star Nadine Coyle, who will perform a selection of the band’s best-known songs alongside material from her solo career.
But while there is plenty of entertainment on the bill, Pride remains firmly rooted in community, with the day’s events getting under way with the traditional Pride March.
There has been a change to the starting point this year. As a market along the original route has grown in size and popularity, organisers have moved the start of the march for safety reasons.
Participants are now asked to arrive from 11am at the junction of Bridge Street and Fleet Street. The march will then continue along its planned route through the town centre before arriving at GWR Park.
The route is step-free, although some sections have uneven ground. Organisers have also advised anyone who is sensitive to noise to consider bringing ear defenders or other suitable hearing protection.
Those who would prefer not to take part in the march can head straight to GWR Park, which opens at 11am. The first hour will be a quieter period, with reduced noise levels for anyone who would rather enjoy the event in a calmer setting.
The Pride March is due to arrive at the park at midday, when the main entertainment programme will begin.
There will be performances throughout the afternoon across two stages, with singers, dancers and tribute acts appearing on the Main Stage and Community Stage.
The Main Stage line-up includes The Spotlight Choir, The Harry Styles Show, Donna Marie as Lady Gaga and RuPaul’s Drag Race star Baga Chipz.
The Community Stage will provide a platform for local performers, including North Star New Wave Sound Collective and Swindon’s own Chocolate Theatre.
There is also a Great British Bake Off connection, with former contestant Janusz Domagała joining event co-host Latina Ballroom to perform their new single.
Away from the stages, visitors can browse food and drink stalls, shops and community stands, while dedicated youth spaces, a circus experience and funfair rides will provide plenty for younger visitors.
The celebrations won’t finish when the main event does. The official Pride Afterparty takes place at The Steam Railway pub in Old Town, hosted by Adam All and Apple Derrières and featuring Kylie on Show.
Paul Stewart, Chair of Swindon & Wiltshire Pride, said: “Pride is about bringing people together, celebrating our diverse communities and creating a welcoming space where everyone can feel accepted and included.
“We’re excited to return in 2026 with a fantastic programme of entertainment, community activities and family-friendly attractions, and we look forward to welcoming visitors from across Swindon, Wiltshire, and beyond.”
With a revised march starting point, a full programme of entertainment and one of the biggest names in the Girls Aloud story on the bill, Pride is set to bring plenty of colour and energy to Swindon this Saturday.
Swindon & Wiltshire Pride takes place on Saturday, 15 August. The main event at GWR Park is free to attend.
