The inclusive, free & family-friendly Proud Fest returns to Great Northern Warehouse

Proud Fest 2026, a joyful free celebration for LGBTQ+ families and their allies, returns to the Great Northern Warehouse this August.

A collaboration between the Great Northern and Proud 2 b Parents, the celebrations take over the iconic building on Sat 29 Aug between 12pm – 6pm, promising a day filled with live entertainment, creative activities and playful spaces designed with families in mind.

The event will be hosted by drag queen Aida H Dee, and former Hits Radio Travel Expert, Broadcaster and Producer, Sara Gosney-Hughes. The Main Stage will welcome live music, family-friendly performances and headline Pride celebration moments, while the outdoor amphitheatre will feature interactive games, creative crafts, hands-on workshops, community stalls and outdoor entertainment.

Inside Great Northern Warehouse, the lower atrium offers a relaxed picnic and chill-out space with inflatables, soft play and family rest zones, and the upper atrium will become a hub for creative play, craft activities, interactive games and dedicated baby and toddler areas.

Visitors can also enjoy the Manchester Pride Parade from the Proud 2 b Parents Viewing Area in the Community Hall, offering a bird’s eye view overlooking Deansgate where everyone can take in the exciting festivities.

Created in response to requests from the community, Proud Fest offers a space where LGBT+ families feel seen, celebrated, and welcomed. Running alongside Manchester Pride, the event gives families a chance to join in the city’s celebrations in a way that feels relaxed and inclusive.

Matt Taylor-Roberts, Founder and CEO of Proud 2 b Parents, says: “Proud Fest is about creating the spaces many of us wished existed when we first became parents. It’s a celebration of LGBTQ+ families in all their diversity and a reminder that every family deserves to feel seen, supported and celebrated.”

Free Proud Fest tickets can be booked below.