Birmingham Pride returns for its two-day festival in 2026, kicking off on Saturday, May 23, with the annual parade through the city centre. The parade, a vibrant display of pride and protest by the LGBTQ+ community and allies, will travel from Victoria Square to Hippodrome Square, gathering from around 11 am.
This year, due to public realm roadworks, the parade will not proceed along New Street. Instead, it will head down Stephenson Street and Stephenson Place, continuing along High Street, Carrs Lane, Moor Street, and onward to the Gay Quarter. With an expected attendance of around 75,000 people, road closures are anticipated between approximately 11:30 am and 2:45 pm, though exact details are yet to be confirmed.
Bus Services Affected
A total of 28 bus services will be impacted by diversions. These include services 2, 3, 4, 4A, 5, 6, 16, 17, 17A, 23, 24, 35, 45, 47, 50, 60, 61, 63, 80, 82, 87, 97, 97A, X1, X2, X20, X21, and X22. Full details are available on the NX Bus website, but passengers are advised to check their usual stops.
Bus Stops Impacted
- Moor Street Queensway
- Carrs Lane
- Smallbrook Queensway
- Station Street
- Upper Dean Street
- Suffolk Street Queensway
- Saint Martins Queensway (for New Street Station)
- Pershore Street
- High Street
- Horsefair
- Albert Street
Police will be present on the day as part of Project Servator, aimed at disrupting criminal activity and terrorism. With large crowds expected, attendees are urged to remain vigilant and report any suspicious activity by calling 101 (or 999 in emergencies) or the anti-terrorism hotline at 0800 789 321.
For more information on tickets, acts performing at the festival, and other details, visit the official Birmingham Pride website.
