When it comes to the LGBTQ+ community, there are some astonishing facts in terms of timelines. It was as recently as 1988 that Margaret Thatcher’s government introduced Section 28, for example, which banned the idea of homosexuality being ‘promoted’ in school. Same sex couples weren’t granted equal rights of adoption until 2002, whilst Section 28 wasn’t repealed until a year later and gay marriage didn’t become legal until 2004. Even in the modern day, transgender people are made the scapegoat by political parties and vilified by famous authors.
In other words, there remains a strong need to have things such as a Pride parade in numerous different parts of the country, with Surrey being no exception. It has been confirmed that Surrey Pride will be returning to Guildford after the town held the event so successfully in previous years.
The History of Pride in Surrey
The Pride in Surrey event originally took place in Woking, Godalming, Reigate and Camberley. In the February of 2024, it was confirmed that Pride would be hosted by Guildford for the first time, aiming to both celebrate ‘diversity and inclusion’ but also looking to ‘showcase all that Guildford has to offer’. With the event generating as much as £350,000 to the towns that host it, there was a hope that Guildford could benefit both financially and materially from being the host town. Given its huge success, the town then hosted for a second time in 2025 and will be hosting for a third time in 2026.
In its inaugural year, the event ran the risk of being a little bit of a washout. Relentless rain meant that some people might well have stayed away, with those that did turn up having to accept that they were going to be caught in the drizzle. Even so, countless people turned up to celebrate the LGBTQ+ community of Surrey, with many dressing up in spectacular outfits and live music keeping people in the party mood.
What You Can Expect
Regardless of whatever the Great British weather decides to do on the day, the general vibe has always been one of fun and inclusion. The event will start with a parade that takes place through Guildford High Street and heads towards Stoke Park.
In the park itself there will be live music, as well as performances, with queer artists and allies from Surrey and beyond looking to entertain the masses. Pride-goers can also expect a vibrant marketplace. The marketplace will give people the opportunity to buy food and drink, as well as speciality clothing, and the opportunity to learn about LGBTQ+ issues.
A Place Where ‘Everyone Feels Welcome’
It is seen as a badge of honour for Guildford that the town will be hosting Pride for the third year in succession. The Chief Executive of Pride in Surrey, Charlie Watts commented on Guildford’s 2024 inaugural Pride event, stating: “Last year the team were overwhelmed by the support shown by our visitors and our partners, which made the day truly special. It’s for that reason that we have decided to return to Guildford this year. The town really embraced us, and we’re incredibly excited to be back”.
Speaking after the decision to host Pride in Guildford again, Catherine Houston, the Lead Councillor for Commercial Services, said: “I’m delighted that Pride In Surrey would like to return to Guildford this year for their annual event. It was a joy to host the event last year and I’m thrilled that they want to make it two in a row and host their colourful and inclusive celebration in our wonderful Stoke Park again. Pride is a highly anticipated and well-attended event…We want Guildford to be a place where everyone feels welcome, a special place where all people can be themselves.”