It’s an all day festival of love (is love)… taking place across Sherborne town centre from 10am-10pm on Sunday 7th July 2024. There’s three main elements happening:

Pride Parade: around midday, starting at Paddock Gardens on Newlands and working its way down Cheap St to Pageant Gardens via Digby Road.

Party in the Park: a programme of live entertainment in Pageant Gardens at the bottom of town from 10am-10pm, with a handful of walkabout pop-up performers also dotted across town throughout the day, including on the conduit.

Artisan Street Market: a variety of traders and makers on Digby Road from 10am-3pm, selling their wares, promoting their services and giving us all some ‘made local and with love’ retail therapy! 

Historically, Pride is a protest. However, nowadays, in a world where some progress has been made, it’s a celebration. At Pride events dotted up and down the country, you’ll find a festival-like feel – with a little bit extra. Pride events, big and small, all consist of a colourful parade, a programme of entertainment, and a coming together of community – in solidarity and joy.

At Sherborne Pride, we’re planning a vibrant parade through town, a fabulous street market on Digby Road, and a jam-packed programme of live entertainment in Pageant Gardens – from music and comedy to cabaret performers, musical theatre, and more.

Pride is not just for the LGBTQIA+ community – it’s for everyone and in many ways, it’s the presence of allies that is most important. It’s a chance for allies to show their unwavering support and solidarity, to stand shoulder to shoulder with their loved ones and say, ‘You are seen, you are heard, and you are loved.’

But perhaps most importantly, Pride is a celebration of love in its purest form. It’s a reminder that, no matter who we are or whom we love, we all deserve to live our lives authentically and without fear. Everyone is welcome at Sherborne Pride.

It’s a completely FREE event – thanks to the kindness of individuals and sponsors.

If you want to contribute pre or post event, head to our ‘get involved’ page on this website.

Pride is a reminder that we’re not alone, that progress is possible and that our voices matter. It’s about representation and providing role models for marginalised communities, for youngsters who want to be able to see themselves in the faces of others, out and proud, and doing just fine. Seeing ourselves in others empowers us to dream and believe in a world where love triumphs over hate. For members of the LGBTQIA+ community, Pride is more than just a festival – it’s a lifeline.

Hell yes! There are food and drink traders in Pageant Gardens all day keeping us fed and watered. You can find a list of the awesome food and drink traders in our digital guide.

You can also bring along your own food, or pop to one of the outlets open on our the high street on the day – see individual business’ websites for opening hours.

Sequins are not compulsory! 

All jokes aside, the day is about being your authentic self and feeling safe. Come as you are… whether that be in jeans and a t-shirt or a head to toe costume that you’ve been working on for months! 

You see all kinds of folk wearing all kinds of things at Pride events – and that’s the beauty of it. 

Please email [email protected] to register and find out more.