So, it’s your first Chester Pride? Welcome to the family, you made the right decision of course!
Whether you’ve just come out, you’re stepping up as a supportive ally, or you’ve finally decided to see what it’s all about, your very first Pride is a core memory in the making.
To make sure your big day is 100%, we’ve put together the ultimate breakdown of what to expect and where to go.
Before you even step foot outside, do your future self a huge Favor and listen to the “Iron Your Flags!” episode of Chester Pride’s official coverage podcast, Please Queer Responsibly 🎧
The crew drops golden tips on surviving the festivities:
- Hydration over everything: Pace yourself, especially if you’re indulging at the bars.
- Footwear choices: Leave the 6-inch stilettos for the stage unless you’ve trained like an Olympic athlete. Comfortable trainers are your best friend.
- Pride as a protest: Amidst all the glitter and pop bangers, remember why we celebrate — holding onto the spirit of community, resistance, and love.
💡 Pro Tip: Give Please Queer Responsibly a follow-on Spotify or Apple Podcasts while you iron out those folds in your chosen flag.
Mapping Out Your Day: What’s Where?
Chester Pride is packed with distinct zones, so there’s a vibe for every mood throughout the day. Here is a quick guided tour:
🎤Our M&S Bank Main Stage 🎤
This is the heart-pumping center of the event. Expect classic pop hits, local LGBTQ+ vocalists, community choirs, and headliners that will have you singing at the top of your lungs. If you want pure, unadulterated festival energy, grab a spot near the front with headliners such as Ru Paul’s Drag Race Queen Danny Beard, 911, Adam Rickitt and many more. Check out the full line-up on our website.
👠The 18+ Icons Stage 👠
The 18+ Icons Stage is where some of the best UK’s drag royalty, kings, queens, and cabaret artists take over. This zone has grown year-by-year and will now have its own dedicated bar. Remember if it’s a warm day to bring a fan to stay cool, ours can only do so much. Expect hilarious banter, high energy crowd participation all hosted by our lovely Miss Cherry Good and headlined by Ru Paul’s Drag Race UK Queen Catrin Feelings.
🩺 The Health Zone🩺
Pride isn’t just a party — it’s a place of care and community. Head over to the Health Zone to meet friendly representatives from local healthcare organizations, sexual health charities, and wellbeing groups. Whether you want advice, free resources, or just a chat, it’s a warm, judgment-free haven.
🎡Youth & Family Funfair Zone 🎡
Family is at the forefront of every event we host and if you’re bringing younger family members or just love carnival games, the Youth Zone and Family area offer a safe, vibrant space filled with activities, crafts, and entertainment.
🎉After Parties 🎉
Still buzzing after Chester Pride has finished? Fear not, that’s when the city comes alive with our affiliated venues after parties. All details will be available in our handy Pride Guide and on our website.
🎒First-Timer Checklist: What to Pack 🎒
| Item | Why You Need It |
| Sunscreen & Glitter | Protect the skin, then make it sparkle (biodegradable glitter preferred! Come on look great but stay eco-friendly). |
| Power Bank | Your phone will die from taking 400 photos and videos of drag queens alone. Signal is poor on-site which drains your battery 🙁 |
| Reusable Water Bottle | Stay hydrated between drinks. |
| Cash & Card | Cash is King! Due to poor signal, card machines will be available with some vendors, but cash ensures a quicker transaction to get you back in the audience of our Main Stage. |
| A Lightweight Bag | Keep your hands free for waving flags and holding drinks, but our market stalls are packed full of goodies to get your hands on. |
🌈Final Words of Advice🌈
There is no “right” way to do your first Pride. Want to spend six hours dancing at the Main Stage? Amazing. Prefer browsing the market stalls and chill with your mates? Perfect.
There is so much to do at Chester Pride, and our lovely team are on site wearing name badged and high-vis. Our online team is also available on our socials should you have any questions.
Be yourself, look out for your friends, check in on your body, and have an incredible Chester Pride!