Liverpool Pride 2025 cancelled following funding and planning struggles
The LCR Pride Foundation, the charity behind the annual event, announced the cancellation of the celebration, which had been scheduled for Saturday 26 July.
In a statement, the organisation said it had become impossible to deliver the event after reverting to a mainly volunteer-led model and struggling to secure both local and national funding.
Rising costs and tight planning timescales also played a major part.
The decision was further complicated by the cutting of ties with long-term sponsor Barclays, the charity said, a move which was made after 'listening to the community.'
While the Foundation says it stands by the decision, it acknowledged it caused further delays during an already challenging period.
"We are devastated that we will not be able to march together this year, at a time when coming together to stand in solidarity, protest and celebration is needed more than ever,' the LCR Pride Foundation said.
'However, we strongly believe that this is the right decision to secure the future of Pride in Liverpool, and to enable a return in 2026.' they continued.
The Foundation added that planning discussions with Liverpool City Council and city-based sponsors are already underway to ensure the event can return stronger in 2026.
Liverpool City Council's Cabinet Member for Health, Wellbeing and Culture, Councillor Harry Doyle, called the news 'hugely disappointing' but said it was a decision the organisers had 'tried valiantly to avoid.'
'Its absence will be keenly felt,' he said, 'particularly given the ever-growing need to support our community and promote unity. The Council will continue to support the Foundation in their long-term efforts.'
In the meantime, the LCR Pride Foundation says it will support regional Pride events and look at alternative ways to bring the LGBTQ+ community together later in the year.
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