Rainbow Laces Day 2026 is coming and Stonewall wants everyone to take one action

Rainbow Laces Day returns on 8 October 2026, with people, workplaces and sports clubs across the UK being encouraged to take one action to help LGBTQ+ people feel welcome in sport, exercise and everyday movement.

The day forms part of Stonewall’s refreshed Rainbow Laces #MovewithPride campaign, which launched in January and is focused on creating a visible network of belonging across everything from organised sport and gyms to walking and other everyday activities.

With Rainbow Laces Day falling just two days before World Mental Health Day, this year’s activity is also highlighting the connection between movement, belonging and mental wellbeing.

Why Rainbow Laces still matters

Research released by Stonewall in January found some striking differences. A YouGov survey found 76% of LGBTQ+ respondents had experienced or were currently experiencing mental ill-health, compared with 44% of respondents overall.

The same research found 37% of LGBTQ+ respondents reported experiencing discrimination through someone’s behaviour, attitudes or language while exercising or trying to exercise. More than a third also felt their sexuality could be a barrier to taking part in sport, exercise or other forms of movement.

Olympic champion Dame Kelly Holmes and professional footballer Josh Cavallo have both backed the 2026 Rainbow Laces campaign, helping promote its message that LGBTQ+ people should feel they belong in sport and exercise.

One action for LGBTQ+ inclusion

For Rainbow Laces Day itself, Stonewall is asking everyone to do something practical.

That could include wearing Rainbow Laces, organising a workplace wellbeing walk, holding a beginner-friendly session at a sports club or trying a new activity. Clubs and organisations can also sign the Proud Pledge, creating a visible signal that LGBTQ+ people are welcome.

Rainbow Laces has been running since 2013, with more than one million people having worn the colourful laces in support of LGBTQ+ inclusion. For 2026, its message has expanded beyond the pitch to movement in all its forms.

Whether someone loves football, running, walking, the gym or is trying exercise for the first time, Rainbow Laces Day is about making sure they know they belong.

Find out how to take part and download the September 2026 activation pack through Stonewall's official Rainbow Laces Day page⁠.