What a weekend. Even the sun came out for Pride, helping to make it one of the most joyous days we can remember. Set against the backdrop of all the bad news we’ve had this year, the celebration came as a welcome reminder of the need for positivity and acceptance, especially with so many great causes joining the parade. This spirit was echoed across the city with colourful parties taking place in every pub and park. We sent two photographers out to capture the sights.

The drag queens of Brighton reliably offer some of the best, brightest and most beautiful outfits of the weekend.

Hakuna Matata to you too, you Perfect Chicken.

This super human was representing Britain’s love for its National Health Service.

Gay Christians were out in force, and they have God on their side.

This was the Face of Pride, or so the float said, and a very lovely face it was.

Even blow-up dolls need love, when they’re human beings at least.

The Hummingbird Project, reflecting Brighton being a city of refuge and safety.

All smiles in the city, there was such a friendly atmosphere across Brighton.

With the streets and gardens so busy, people used whatever space they could find.

When it’s dark, look for stars. Mental Health love.

Paradise Gardens offered free official Pride events at Old Steine and Victoria Gardens, every available space on the grass was filled as people enjoyed the sun.

Flags for sale and most street corners, wigs likely available too. Two festival goers pause to check their phone, asking the familiar question ‘where are you?’

Heart Venture are a local dating agency for adults with learning disabilities.

Early in the afternoon people started gathering and passing through North Laine. Many a rainbow to be seen.

These faceless ghosts on stilts symbolised pariahs on parade.

A moving tribute to the lives lost in the club in Orlando, Florida this year.

A little fog never hurt anyone.

Some people were still proudly waving the European Union flag.

Always happy to help.

A quick mid-afternoon nap is allowed when you plan to party through the night.

We camp, these boys do. Outdoor activities is their thing.

You only get one weekend where you can wear your huge yellow cape and purple head dress.

Sunny hot weather meant the need for outfits with fantastic ventilation.

Avoiding the rain of previous years, rainbow umbrellas were strictly for sun shade over the weekend.

You can always expect a vast array of colourful and bright outfits for Pride.

The Mash Tun and Fitzherberts are decorated with the large rainbow flags for a busy weekend.

A lot of African Pride was visible on parade, reflecting the positivity in that vibrant continent.

Rainbow warriors.

The danse macabre gave a Mexican death feel to proceedings while their acrobatics brought the joy.

A simple message at the core of Pride. Equality.
Photos by Jon Southcoasting and Mike Tudor