Wigan Pride is back for 2026 on Saturday 8 August with a fabulous main stage line-up and thousands of visitors expected in the town centre.
Headliners on the main Unity Stage will be two iconic acts Booty Luv and Big Brovaz, who will perform together to bring the ultimate 2000’s R&B nostalgia mixed with huge dancefloor anthems.
Fronted by Cherise Roberts and Nadia Shepherd the bands’ key tracks include their joint smash hits, Boogie 2Nite and Nu Flow, along with Baby Boy, Shine, and Some Kinda Rush.
Wigan-born performer, Banksie, one of the most recognisable drag artists to come out of Greater Manchester and star of RuPaul’s Drag Race UK Series 5, will join Booty Luv and Big Brovaz on the main stage and promises to bring high-fashion couture, theatrical performance and Northern humour.
The Wigan Council backed event is led by a team of volunteers and supported by headline sponsor, Calisen.
Lead member for equalities at Wigan Council, Councillor Eileen Rigby, said: “We’ve been a proud supporter of Wigan Pride since day one. Pride events are an important part of our events calendar, bringing thousands of visitors together in joy and celebration.
“Local Pride events are so important to show that Wigan Borough is a place where everyone is welcome and where you can feel proud to be yourself. They are a statement of love, visibility and unity.”
Booty Luv / Big Brovaz and Banksie will be supported by a range of local acts and performances at the annual celebration of the borough’s LGBTQ+ community.
Tribute stars will include one of the UK’s leading Rihanna tribute artists, Rihanna Reloaded, and local artist Chloe Byrnes will present tracks from her Claire Richards from Steps tribute show, Summer of Love, bringing pure 90s and 00s pop nostalgia, as well as performing a set as herself.
Bolton’s viral sensation Sheila Diamond will bring songs including her version of popular dance track, ‘Freed from Desire’ and promises powerhouse vocals, infectious rave energy, and huge cross-generational appeal.
Dance music fans will enjoy Chris Ryan’s Clubland Classics, Leigh drag artist, Miss BB Brookes will bring glamour, comedy and show-stopping entertainment and the creative Laeeqa, with original music and relatable lyrics, will complete the impressive professional lineup on the main stage.
Following Wigan Pride’s annual parade, Wigan’s Rock Choir will launch the action on the main Unity Stage around midday, which is this year hosted by Wigan Pride favourite, local presenter and performer, Claire Pilling, and drag star, comedy host, and reality TV icon, Pam Sandwich.
Councillor Rigby added: “Pride has a serious message at its heart and there will be opportunities throughout the day to reflect and consider what still needs to change across the world.
“But it’s also a celebration and I’m sure this fantastic line-up will give everyone a chance to relax and really enjoy themselves on the day. I hope everyone who can, will join us for this free family-friendly event.”
There will also be music from up-and-coming local artists on the Believe Stage on Believe Square hosted this year by TMP College and The Wiend Bar.
