UK Black Pride Looks Towards 2027 After October Fundraising Celebration

UK Black Pride is looking ahead to the return of its main annual festival in 2027 after continuing its community work through a year of reflection, smaller events and fundraising.

The organisation paused its large-scale 2026 celebration as part of a strategic review announced on 7 May, but its activities continued throughout the year, including a Black History Month event in London earlier this October.

Why UK Black Pride took a year away

Founded in 2005, UK Black Pride celebrates LGBTQ+ people of African, Asian, Caribbean, Latin American and Middle Eastern heritage.

The organisation has grown into one of the country’s most prominent celebrations for LGBTQ+ people of colour, with its 2025 festival attracting more than 25,000 people.

As it marked its 21st year, organisers announced plans to pause the main festival in 2026, allowing them to review their work, strengthen community engagement and develop a more sustainable future.

Founder and chief executive Lady Phyll explained that the decision was intended to support the organisation’s long-term development rather than bring its work to an end.

Blacktober Fest brought the community together

UK Black Pride continued organising activities throughout 2026, including Blacktober Fest at London’s Colour Factory on Friday 16 October.

The event celebrated Black queer culture through music, performances, dancing and community activities, with proceeds helping to support the organisation’s work as a not-for-profit.

Comedian Thanyia Moore was announced as host, while the programme included opportunities for independent businesses, performers and community organisations to take part.

The celebration was supported by Bleecker and Gilead Sciences, alongside UK Black Pride’s wider programme of community partnerships.

When will UK Black Pride return?

The organisation intends to bring back its main festival in 2027, although a date and venue have not yet been confirmed.

The planned return follows a year in which UK Black Pride has concentrated on strengthening its organisation while maintaining opportunities for LGBTQ+ people of colour to connect and celebrate.

Readers can find updates through the official UK Black Pride website, its events page and Instagram account @ukblackpride.