Taking Pride in the new city

It will undoubtedly be the most colourful event in the new city’s calendar, and this year’s Pride Festival comes with plenty of added X-Factor too.

Organisers have announced a top class line-up for the free festival, with the Rainbow Stage being headlined by chart-toppers Liberty X.
Michelle, Jessica and Kelli hit the top spot with their single, Just A Little, and will round off the event with a nostalgic set to please noughties pop fans.

They’ll be joined at the big bash by Horse McDonald, who has toured with powerhouses including Tina Turner and BB King.
X-Factor winner Matt Terry is onboard, and Marcus Collins, another talent who came to prominence through the tv show will also see you in Campbell Park on September 14.

Others showing out include Eden Hunter, Benedict Cork, Amrick Channa, Keanan, Andrea Di Giovanni, Luke Vella, Emma McGrath and Jess Kemp.

The Drag & Cabaret stage will be a riot of sensational talents too, with a surprise headline act.
Also coming to entertain you, Kitty Scott Claus, a finalist in that aforementioned Drag Race show, who has been described as ‘the lovechild of Elaine Paige, Gemma Collins and Jennifer Coolidge.’

Other Drag Race aces set to give you a great time include Victoria Scone and Vicky Vivacious, with firm support from singing and comedy players Linda Matthews, funny Brummie Drag King superstar Don One, and Drag Prince Alfie Ordinary.

Ollie King, a contestant on the BBC gay dating show, I Kissed A Boy, and Scouse songstress Brenda La Beau will host.
Impersonators will make sure you see stars all night long, in the best possible sense, with tributes to Dame Shirley Bassey, Dolly Parton, Freddie Mercury and Taylor Swift.

“Milton Keynes Pride Festival showcases an impressive calibre of diverse performers and artists,” said Pride director, Keith Emmett III, “We are proud to be supporting and platforming such incredible talent and showcasing some of the very best LGBTQ+ artists and allies, with community at the forefront and heart of our programming.”

Elsewhere, Campbell Park will be bursting with entertainment and attractions; enjoy the thrills and spills of the Funfair, tickle your tastebuds with cuisine for all at the well stocked Food Village, and treat yourself to a little shopping at the Rainbow Market.

Milton Keynes Pride Festival really is for all, and that includes children who will have their own Kids Space.
In 2023, the celebration of inclusivity was celebrated by 16,000 visitors. This September, that figure looks like being smashed and the sterling line-up will ensure that, at odds with those performing, Milton Keynes Pride will be anything but a drag.

“Pride truly is for everyone,” Keith said. “During the day, our open policy welcomes families, children and well-behaved dogs to join in on the festivities. In the evening, the energy ramps up, becoming an adults-only celebration. Pride is dedicated to our LGBTQ+ community and their essential allies. Whether it’s your first time or you’re a returning guest, join us this year to celebrate our fifth anniversary in style!”

> Milton Keynes Pride Festival seeks to promote visibility, social cohesion, connection, education, equality and promotion of the LGBTQ+ community in Milton Keynes and the surrounding areas.

For the latest updates, visit mkpridefestival.com or follow the social channels @mkpridefestival