G U I D E TO
PRIDE 2026
CONTENTS 3 4 5 6 7 8 10 11 12 13 14 16 17 18 20 22 23 24 28 29 30 31
A MESSAGE FROM OUR DIRECTOR PRIDE BY DAY / PRIDE BY NIGHT MEET THE TEAM OUR SPONSORS MK COMMUNITY FOUNDATION THE RAINBOW FUND FESTIVAL POSTER HOTEL LATOUR COMMUNITY STAGE LINE-UP XSACPE MILTON KEYNES CENTRE:MK DRAG MIX BINGO FOURTEEN SKY BAR & RESTAURANT MAIN STAGE LINE-UP SANTANDER KIDS’ SPACE LINE-UP PERSONAL GROUP VOLKSWAGEN GROUP UK FRIENDS OF PRIDE ORACLE RED BULL RACING IMPORTANT FESTIVAL INFORMATION NHBC
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A MESSAGE FROM OUR DIRECTOR When I look at what this team has achieved this year, I feel incredibly proud. We’ve faced challenges, we’ve adapted, we’ve changed, and there have been plenty of moments where we’ve had to ask ourselves how we were going to make it all happen. But somehow, we did. In a challenging climate, MK Pride has continued to grow, evolve and raise its ambitions. In many ways, I think we’ve exceeded our own expectations of what we could achieve. And that is down to the people behind it. I’m incredibly proud of our team and the sheer amount of work they have put in over the past year. What you see today is the result of months of planning, problem-solving, fundraising, community work and an enormous amount of determination. With the support of our sponsors and partners, volunteers, performers, community organisations, suppliers and supporters, we’ve brought another MK Pride to Campbell Park. Thank you for believing in MK Pride, and thank you for being here. Keith Emmett III Director, MK Pride Festival
HELP KEEP FREE
Your support helps us continue to deliver a free Pride Festival for Milton Keynes. Every donation helps us keep Pride free and accessible to our community.
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P R I D E B Y DA Y 12PM - 5.30PM
A family-friendly celebration of Pride, bringing our communities together through live entertainment, activities, performances and experiences for all ages.
P R I D E BY N I G H T 5.30PM - 10.30PM
From 5:30PM, Pride continues as an 18+ celebration, with live entertainment, comedy, music and performances as we turn up the energy into the evening.
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MEET THE TEAM THE PEOPLE WHO MAKE MK PRIDE HAPPEN
KEITH
ALFIE
AMY
DIRECTOR
SOCIAL MEDIA
TREASURER
JAY
LEE
LOUIS
COMMUNITY MANAGER
DIRECTOR
STAGE MANAGER
SAY HI IF YOU SEE US ON SITE!
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OUR SPONSORS WITHOUT THE ONGOING DEDICATION OF OUR SPONSORS AND PARTNERS, NONE OF THIS WOULD BE POSSIBLE
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MK COMMUNITY FOUNDATION HAS SUPPORTED MK PRIDE FESTIVAL SINCE IT BEGAN SEVEN YEARS AGO AND HAS RECENTLY RENEWED ITS COMMITMENT THROUGH A NEW THREE-YEAR PARTNERSHIP MK Community Foundation exists to make Milton Keynes better and fairer for everyone by funding the charities and groups that hold our communities together. As the festival’s Community Connector partner, the Foundation is funding the connectivity, ticketing, and operational infrastructure that underpins Pride, investing in the essentials that bring people together, ensure access for everyone, and enable community to flourish. “Pride events across the country are facing growing financial pressure, at a time when the LGBTQ+ community continues to experience higher levels of discrimination and poorer mental health. In that context, free, visible community events matter more, not less. We are proud to play our part in providing stability at a time of increasing strain, and to stand alongside MK Pride Festival, which provides something truly special and essential to our city.” Ian Revell, CEO, MK Community Foundation
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THIS IS A HARD MOMENT TO BE TRANS IN BRITAIN. IT’S A HARD MOMENT TO BE QUEER AND A REFUGEE, QUEER AND DISABLED, OR A YOUNG PERSON TRYING TO FIND YOUR PLACE WITHOUT A COMMUNITY AROUND YOU. The Rainbow Fund exists to support projects for Milton Keynes’ LGBTQ+ community. From mental health support and youth groups to creative projects, community spaces, and ideas that haven’t been imagined yet. It was built to prioritise those facing multiple barriers and help ensure people can find connection, support, and a sense of belonging. This community already knows how to create spaces filled with joy, creativity, and care. Now is the time to stand together. Your donation can help local projects reach more people, support more lives, and grow for generations to come.
Have an idea for a project or group that would make life better for ourcommunity in MK? Get in touch! applications@mkcommunityfoundation.co.uk 8
X
S CA N DONATE
WIN!
PRIZE DRAW CLORSES 1ST OCTOBE ns apply
Terms and conditio
All Born Naked, The Rest Is Drag Artist Proof 1 of 5
One of only five artist proofs produced worldwide
Community Foundation Every donation helps Milton Keynes oss Milton Keynes support LGBTQ+ communities acr through the Rainbow Fund
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TULISA JANICE ROBINSON TOM ASPAUL RILEASA NATE ETHAN DON ONE BRENDA LABEAU CHERRY WEST OUR NIGHT TIME HOST WITH Y
LAWRENCE CHANEY
THE CHEEKY GIRLS BILLY & LOUIE CHERYL BENJI JAMES SABRINA CARPENTER SUM TING WONG PERFORMED BY DANNI HUNT
WITH YOU
R DAYTIME HOST
CHARLOTTE DAWSON COMMUNITY STAGE • FUNFAIR • RAINBOW MARKET • BARS FOOD VILLAGE • SENSORY SPACE • KIDS SPACE • DRAG MIX BINGO
SATURDAY 12TH SEPTEMBER
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GET YOUR
FREE TICKETS
12PM - 10.30PM CAMPBELL PARK
YOUR NEXT CITY BREAK AWAITS D I S C O V E R T H E P E R F E C T E X C U S E T O G E T AWAY
S I P, S TAY, S PA R K L E
S T E A K C AT I O N
Our packages are thoughtfully designed for indulgence,
W E E K E N D R E T R E AT
B O O K N O W:
relaxation and unforgettable skyline moments. Enjoy skyline dining with our Steak-Cation package, toast to the weekend with chilled Prosecco in our Sip, Stay & Sparkle escape, or unwind with a relaxing two-night Weekend Retreat with wine on arrival. Four Hundred, Marlborough Gate, Milton Keynes, MK9 3FP
Terms and conditions apply.
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COMMUNITY STAGE 12.30 BOLLYQUEER 1:05 PAUL HAYWARD 1:30
MKCF
1:55
KEIRA CARR
2:50 LEANNE QUIGLEY Talk & Q&A 3:30 DJ H4ZZA 4:30 COMMUNITY STAGE CLOSES
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E
veryone deserves to feel welcome, seen and heard wherever they spend their time, that’s why for MK Pride 2026, Xscape Milton Keynes is proud to share a simple but powerful message: We See You. Xscape Milton Keynes is driven to celebrate the LGBTQ+ community, champion diversity and promote acceptance. As a leading leisure destination in the city, we’re committed to creating a safe and welcoming environment to all - not just during Pride, but all year round.
Scan here to plan your next visit
This Pride, we stand united with MK Pride in support of the LGBTQ+ community, celebrating individuality and standing against discrimination in all its forms. Whether you are celebrating with friends, spending time with family or simply enjoying a day out, Xscape Milton Keynes is here to welcome you. We see you.
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CENTRE:MK ARE PROUD TO SUPPORT THE MILTON KEYNES PRIDE FESTIVAL ONCE AGAIN, THROUGH SPONSORSHIP OF THE VOLUNTEERS AND SENSORY CALMING SPACE, AS WELL AS THE ICONIC MK PRIDE CUPS We continue to work together with the Pride team to help make this fantastic event a much loved and anticipated annual celebration. We have a shared vision to make our city totally inclusive, where people can feel safe and welcomed no matter what their race, religion, gender or sexual orientation. Our “open to all policy” is at the heart of the centre:mk culture. We aim to create a safe and inclusive space for all to enjoy. By using our space for events such as the Pride Pop-Up, we can help to champion the LGBTQ+ community and empower everybody to live as their true selves. We can give MK Pride exposure to the huge visitor footfall which increases visibility across the city and creates support and awareness for this amazing event.
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X SUPPORTING
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DRAG MIX BINGO
WITH YOUR HOSTS SANDY FLAPS & TRAYA BUNS ROUND 1 — 1:30PM ROUND 2 — 3:30PM ROUND 3 — 6:00PM ROUND 4 — 7:00PM
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I N DU LGE I N FL AVO URS OF THE S E AS ON
LO CAT ED ON T H E 1 4 T H FLOOR OF H OT E L LA TO U R Indulge in seasonal flavours and discover your new favourite dish! Fourteen Restaurant’s panoramic skyline views provide the perfect backdrop for an unforgettable dining experience. Four Hundred, Marlborough Gate, Milton Keynes, MK9 3FP
BOOK YOUR TABLE:
MAIN STAGE BY DAY
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CHERYL
BILLY & LOUIE
BENJI JAMES
1PM
1.35PM
2.10PM
DANNI HUNT AS SABRINA CARPTENER
SUM TING WONG
THE CHEEKY GIRLS
2.45PM
3.35PM
4.10PM
VICKI VIVACIOUS
CHERRY WEST
CHARLOTTE DAWSON
4.45PM
5.30PM
5PM CHARLOTTE DAWSON,
DAY TIME HOST
LAWRENCE CHANEY & SURPRISE GUESTS
MAIN STAGE BY NIGHT
DON ONE
BRENDA LABEAU
NATE ETHAN
6.05PM
6.40PM
7.30PM
TOM ASPAUL
R I L E A SA
JANICE ROBINSON
8.05PM
8.40PM
9PM RENCE CHANEY LAWNIGHT TIME HOST
T U L I SA 9.40PM
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WHO ARE WE? We’re Santander, proud partners of MK Pride Festival! From the very beginning of the festival in 2019, we’ve been delighted to support this amazing event. Showing up at MK Pride continues to be incredibly important to us. It reflects our lasting goal of showing up for all our LGBTQIA+ customers and colleagues, which feels essential now more than ever.
MK PRIDE THROUGH THE YEARS This year marks 6 years of MK Pride Festival, and it truly has become a staple of Milton Keynes. Throughout that time, it’s been wonderful to be a part of this beacon for LGBTQIA+ people in the city that we proudly call our home. Looking back, we’re so proud of how much both the festival and our partnership with it have grown. We started with a small tent and now we ‘re delighted to be hosting a fabulous chill-out space, complete with all the photoshoots and props any LGBTQIA+ person or ally could want.
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OUR EMBRACE NETWORK Embrace is Santander’s award winning LGBTQIA+ employee network that supports our entire UK operation. Embrace is one of Santander’s oldest employee networks in the UK and is the blueprint for creating Embrace Networks in every country across Santander Group - a truly global phenomenon! Our dedicated team of volunteers are always focused on how we can better support the experience of our LGBTQIA+ people, customers and communities.
JASDEEP KOCHHAR, EMBRACE NETWORK PRIDE LEAD “OMG It’s MK Pride! And how has it been 6 years already?? I must be getting old… The Embrace network has played a huge part in my pride journey at work. From initially volunteering at Santander’s stand at MK Pride to now organising our part in it, the festival and the network have been instrumental in making me feel comfortable enough to bring my sassy gay self to work. For me Santander really is #ThePlaceToBeYourself”
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KIDS’ SPACE 12:30-1:00 Gulliver's Characters & Stiltwalker Elmer the Patchwork Elephant & Tyra the Baby T. Rex 1:00-1:30 Showtime Circus 1:30-2:00 Drag Mix Bingo DJ Leanard the Lion - Prize Presentation 2:00-2:30 Elmer the Patchwork Elephant Meet & Greet 2:30-3:00 Showtime Circus 3:00-3:30 Gulliver's Family Entertainment 3:30-4:00 Drag Mix Bingo DJ Leanard the Lion - Prize Presentation 4:00-4:30 Elmer the Patchwork Elephant Finale • Meet & Greet • Photos 4:30-5:30 Showtime Circus ALL DAY Arts & Crafts • Colouring
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AT PERSONAL GROUP, WE BELIEVE EVERYONE SHOULD FEEL VALUED, RESPECTED AND ABLE TO BE THEIR AUTHENTIC SELF. INCLUSION IS MORE THAN A POLICY OR INITIATIVE, IT IS ABOUT CREATING AN ENVIRONMENT WHERE PEOPLE FEEL THEY TRULY BELONG AND ARE EMPOWERED TO THRIVE. As a business focused on improving people’s wellbeing, we’re committed to fostering a culture where diversity is celebrated and different perspectives are welcomed. We recognise that when people feel psychologically safe, they are more engaged, confident and able to contribute their best, both at work and within society. Our commitment to Diversity, Equity, Inclusion and Belonging (DEIB) is reflected in the way we work, support our colleagues and engage with our communities. Through initiatives such as our DEIB Committee, awareness events and ongoing conversations, we strive to create opportunities for learning, understanding and meaningful change., and supporting MK Pride is an extension of that commitment.
embedded into everyday experiences, both in and out of the workplace. As a proud Milton Keynes-based employer, we are delighted to support MK Pride through our donation and the important role it plays in bringing people together, fostering a sense of belonging and championing equality across our local community. We are proud to stand alongside the LGBTQ+ community and celebrate the diversity that makes our workplaces, communities and society stronger. Happy MK Pride Festival from everyone at
MK Pride Festival is an amazing opportunity to celebrate the LGBTQ+ community, amplify voices, increase visibility and show support for a community where everyone feels accepted for who they are. It is also an important reminder that inclusion is not limited to a single event or month, but something that should be 23
Partner Official Automotive Partner
VWFS UK
genVolkswagen Group UK Group UK
ith Volkswagen Proudly partnered Financial with Services Volkswagen UK Financial Services UK
en Group UK is proud Volkswagen to support Group Milton UK isKeynes proud Pride to support Festival Milton for Keynes Pride Festival for consecutive year. In sixth 2026,consecutive we are delighted joined by our our year. to In be 2026, we are delighted to be joined by our mpany, Volkswagen Financial Services UK (VWFS). sister company, Volkswagen Financial Services UK (VWFS).
UK and Drive VWFS en Group UK andVolkswagen Drive VWFSGroup have come together to have come together to demonstrate our commitment inclusion as and the local community as ate our commitment to inclusion and the local to community the official automotive of Milton Keynes Pride Festival. l automotive partners of Milton Keynes partners Pride Festival.
equity,are inclusion and of belonging are at the core of our culture. equity, inclusionDiversity, and belonging at the core our culture. We strivewho to ensure that everyone who works with us is respected, to ensure that everyone works with us is respected, supported and able to bePartnering completely themselves. Partnering with Milton d and able to be completely themselves. with Milton Keynes Pride is just oneengaging way we bring ide Festival is just one way weFestival bring this to life, with this to life, engaging with unity in a celebratory the community and welcoming in a celebratory environment andthat welcoming fosters environment that fosters ection. real connection.
oyee Network Group, We Drive Network Proud, exists to represent the exists to represent the Our Employee Group, We Drive Proud, community andLGBTQIA+ promote allyship across organisation. community andthe promote allyship across the organisation. mbers of We Drive Proud are hereofatWe theDrive festival, along with our Many members Proud are here at the festival, along with our arts from VWFS’ counterparts Proud Employee Group, so please fromResource VWFS’ Proud Employee Resource Group, so please r to our stand, enjoy surprises out fun what it’s comesome over fun to our stand, and enjoyfind some surprises and find out what it’s ng with us! like working with us!
how we’re Read driving more impact about onhow pagewe’re [insert driving page numbers impact onfor page roadmap [inserthere]. page numbers for roadmap here]. 26
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Official Automotive Partner
Volkswagen Financial Services UK Proudly partnered with Volkswagen Group UK
Volkswagen Financial Services UK (VWFS) provides straightforward automotive finance, leasing, insurance and mobility products across the Volkswagen Group brands in the UK. But VWFS is more than products and services - we're committed to nurturing a workplace where everyone feels welcome to be who they are, as they are, and nothing less. We call it being ‘100% Us’. Our Proud Employee Resource Group (ERG) plays an important role in championing meaningful LGBTQIA+ inclusion by supporting colleagues, allies and our local community, here in Milton Keynes.
The team at VWFS also recently backed the launch of Drive, a new online destination designed to make it easier for customers to find, finance and drive their next vehicle. This year marks a milestone moment as we join forces with Volkswagen Group UK as official automotive sponsors of Milton Keynes Pride, for the first time. Together, we're celebrating our collective commitment to diversity, equity and inclusion and we look forward to sharing why we’re passionate about helping people feel confident to be who they are with those at MK Pride!
Read more about how we’re driving impact on page [insert page numbers for roadmap here]. 26
Pride in every mile of our journey.
Inclusive toilets Head Interview with swimmer Michael Gunning. ‘LGBTQ and Friends’ employee network group launched.
Review & upd with a specif LGBTQ
‘LGBTQ and Friends’ changes its name to ‘We Drive Proud’.
‘100% Us’ str
2019
2020
2021
2022
First year of sponsorship of MK Pride Festival.
Rainbow walkway installed at VWG offices.
Interview with Olympic swimmer Mark Foster.
CUPRA sponsors Gay Times Awards.
Support groups and Mental Health First Aiders for employees launch.
‘Inclusion Live’ eve swimmer Michael G
Inclusive toilets intro both VWFS off
VWG UK
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VWFS UK
Reverse Mentoring celebrates its 5th birthday.
s added to VWG UK d Office.
date of all policies fic focus on our Q+ policy.
rategy launched.
2023
Škoda celebrate diversity with a second ‘Respectline’.
‘LGBTQ+’ changes its name to ‘Proud’.
Colleague bake sale fundraiser for local LGBTQ+ charity Q:alliance.
Lauren Strand talk in VWG UK showroom.
First colleague ‘Pride Day.
Review & update of all policies with a specific focus on our LGBTQ+ policy.
2024 Inspiring fireside chat with Jay from Q:alliance.
Volkswagen ID. Buzz at MK Pride Festival.
ent with Gunning.
‘LGBTQ+’ employee resource group launched.
oduced in fices.
First LGBTQ+ podcast episode aired.
Big Buzz debuts at Petrol and Pride 2026
2025
Main Stage sponsors of MK Pride 2025.
2026 Second LGBTQ+ podcast aired.
‘Crumb Together’ genderbread campaign for IDAHOBIT.
Pride Month celebrated in VWG UK Showroom.
Rainbow crossing and speed bump installations across both offices. VWG UK and VWFS UK join forces to co-sponsor MK Pride Festival as ‘Official Automotive Partners’.
Official Automotive Partners 27
FRIENDS OF PRIDE
WANT TO SUPPORT MK PRIDE? We’re always looking to work with organisations that share our commitment to LGBTQ+ equality and our community. email: info@mkpridefestival.com
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We’re proud to continue our partnership with MK Pride in 2026. From our home in Milton Keynes to circuits around the world, we’re committed to creating an environment where everyone feels valued, respected and able to be themselves. At Oracle Red Bull Racing, we know that great teams are built on diverse perspectives, genuine allyship and a strong sense of belonging. By supporting the LGBTQ+ community and celebrating individuality, we hope to inspire positive change within our Team, and our sport.
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IMPORTANT FESTIVAL INFORMATION LOCATION
SMOKING AND VAPING
Campbell Park Event Plateau, Milton Keynes, MK9 4AJ
Smoking and vaping is not permitted inside any of the festival tents and stages.
Accessible parking near the Festival site is very limited and available on a first-come, first-served basis. Where possible, we strongly encourage attendees to use centre:mk multi-storey car parks, which offer step-free access and a flat route to Campbell Park.
FESTIVAL TIMES Pride by Day: 12:00pm – 5:30pm (all ages welcome) Pride by Night: 5:30pm – 10:30pm (18+ only) Last entry: 8:00pm
PHOTOGRAPHY & RECORDING Photography and recording for personal use is permitted. Please be respectful when photographing other attendees — always seek consent. Professional filming and photography requires prior accreditation. Drones and unmanned aerial vehicles are strictly prohibited.
No re-entry after 8:00pm
ACCESSIBILITY
ENTRY
MK Pride Festival is committed to being accessible to all attendees.
All attendees must present a valid entry pass to gain access to the festival. Please ensure your pass is ready to scan when you arrive.
SECURITY All attendees are subject to security search on entry. The following are not permitted: glass containers, alcohol, illegal substances, weapons, flares, laser pointers, unofficial flags on poles.
Accessible viewing areas, facilities and routes are available on site. If you have specific access requirements, please contact us in advance.
ANIMALS Dogs are permitted on site until 5:30pm. Registered guide dogs and assistance dogs are welcome throughout the festival.
Prohibited items will be confiscated and may not be returned.
After 5:30pm, only registered guide dogs and assistance dogs are permitted on site.
ID & CHALLENGE 25
Please plan your visit accordingly if you are bringing a dog.
Valid photo ID is required for all attendees aged 18+. Challenge 25 will be in operation across all bars. Anyone unable to provide valid ID may be refused service or required to leave after 5:30pm. Accepted ID: passport, driving licence, PASS-approved card.
BEHAVIOUR MK Pride Festival is a safe, inclusive and welcoming space for all. Discrimination, harassment or threatening behaviour will not be tolerated. Please be respectful of all attendees, staff, volunteers and performers. Anyone causing disruption may be removed from the site.
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SITE OPERATIONS Organisers reserve the right to alter, amend or withdraw any aspect of the festival programme at any time. In the event of severe weather or unforeseen circumstances, aspects of the festival may be suspended or cancelled. The decision of all event staff, security and medics is final in all site matters Lost property will be held at the Information Point - please check there first. Please visit out website for full festival information.
Supporting Pride. Building belonging. As the UK’s leading provider of warranty and insurance for new-build homes, we know the importance of community. It’s why:
we’ve sponsored MK Pride Festival since 2019
we support LGBTQ+ organisations across our city and beyond
we’ve built a workplace where
employees can bring their whole selves to work
our Proud network empowers
colleagues and nurtures allyship.
Say hello to our team who are litter picking at the festival. Have an amazing day!
NHBC. Built. For everyone. www.nhbc.co.uk Facebook @nhbcuk Instagram @nhbcuk X @nhbc
GUIDE TO
PRIDE
SAVE THE DATE
SATURDAY 11 SEPTEMBER 2027 PROGRAMME SPONSORED BY