Manchester Pride - Festival

Festival

During the August bank holiday weekend of Manchester Pride, the city's gay village becomes a gated area; attendees must pay for a wristband in order to gain access to the village. The gated system and entry fee have been in place since 2003, however, the candlelight vigil held in Sackville Park each Pride does not require a wristband for entry. Additionally, the parade, starting on Deansgate, is free for anyone to watch and does not take place within the gated zone.

Criticisms have arisen over the closed nature of the event, with those against the policy describing it as a "prison". Pride organisers have rebutted the accusation, saying it increases safety and, by purchasing a ticket to enter, this gives Manchester Pride an increased income that will be donated to charities. Additionally, though the wristband offers access to the village and its arena, where music performances are held, certain bars and clubs within the vicinity charge their own entry fees. Manchester Pride noted the issue, stating, "we ask that bars do not charge an entrance fee during the Big Weekend; however this is something we cannot enforce".