Brighton’s annual Pride celebrations have been postponed until next year due to the ongoing coronavirus pandemic.

The festival, which attracts almost half a million people to the seaside city, was due to mark its 30th anniversary this August.

However, in a statement published yesterday (3 April 2020), organisers said they “cannot in good faith risk the health and safety of our communities, volunteers and participants.”

“The decision to postpone has not been taken lightly and, with many events still planning to go ahead in July an August, we were hoping to wait until closer to the time to avoid disappointing our volunteers, community groups and the public,” the statement read.

However, organisers added that the threat of continued travel restrictions and social distancing guidelines meant that it was not possible to go ahead as planned.

In the last few hours, dates for next year’s festival have been announced – the event will now take place from 6-8 August.

It is unknown whether any of the acts due to perform this year, including Mariah Carey, Bananarama and The Pussycat Dolls, will be taking part in next year’s festivities, although organisers have said they are in contact with the artists.

Ticket sales have been suspended until further notice, with those who have already bought tickets having theirs honoured at the rescheduled event.

“We know, when the time is right, it will be even more important for people to come back together and celebrate our communities and city,” the statement ended.

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