The Staffordshire Moorlands is preparing to shine with colour, music, and community spirit for the first ever Pride in the Moorlands on 27-29 June 2025.

The weekend celebration, organised by arts programme OUTSIDE and a steering group of local LGBTQ+ community and allies, promises to be an inclusive and joyful experience for people of all ages, backgrounds, and identities.

The festivities, taking place across the towns and villages of the Staffordshire Moorlands, feature a Pride Torch Relay and a vibrant programme of activities including Pride walks, family-friendly performances, a film screening, music, and more. From rainbow flags to powerful stories of identity and acceptance, Pride in the Moorlands is about creating a safe and welcoming space for everyone to be their true selves.

As a symbol of unity and visibility, the Pride Torch Relay will carry the light of Pride across the district. Starting on Friday 27 June, the torch will be passed hand-to-hand by community champions and LGBTQ+ advocates travelling on foot, bus and tractor between towns and villages, ending with a spectacular party in Leek on Sunday 29 June.

“Pride in the Moorlands is more than just a celebration,” says Sarah Bird, Creative Director of OUTSIDE. “It’s about visibility, connection, and showing our local LGBTQ+ community that they are valued, loved, and supported – right here in the Moorlands. But it’s also an amazing weekend of fun, colour, and joy. We’ve got fabulous performances and activities for people to come together and have an unforgettable time. Whether you’re part of the LGBTQ+ community or an ally, it’s a weekend that will lift your spirits.”

All the Pride in the Moorlands events and activities are free. For event updates, visit outsidearts.org