Pride Cymru 1999-2026

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Where it began.

In the summer of 2024 celebrated 25 years of pride in Wales. The first Cardiff Mardi Gras was held in 1999, after South Wales Police noted a surge in hate crimes towards the LGBTQ+ community. Working with Safer Cardiff, the first ever Cardiff Mardi Gras was held and attended by 5-6000 people.

With the support of the local council and other organisations, the event evolved into a large-scale festival, featuring parades, performances, and an increasing number of attendees. Cardiff Mardi Gras became a vital platform for LGBTQ+ voices and a visible reminder that the fight for equality was far from over.

In 2014, Cardiff Mardi Gras was officially renamed Pride Cymru. Pride Cymru embraced its role as more than just an event—it became a movement dedicated to promoting LGBTQ+ rights and supporting the community throughout Wales.

Where we are now.

Pride Cymru’s mission is to support and advocate for the LGBTQ+ community by creating a more inclusive society.

We believe in the power of education, outreach, and direct support to bring about meaningful change.

Through our charity work, we aim to address the challenges faced by LGBTQ+ individuals, including discrimination, social isolation, mental health struggles, and lack of access to resources. (Information from Pride Cymru)

Pride Cymru 2026 is taking place on Saturday and Sunday 13 and 14 June in Cardiff.

Pride Cymru information and tickets