Brisbane Pride has announced its 2026 Festival program, with an expanded celebration running throughout September before culminating in the iconic Brisbane Pride Rally, March and Fair Day on Saturday 24 October 2026.
In a significant milestone for Queensland’s LGBTQIA+ community, this year’s Rally, March and Fair Day will return to New Farm, taking place on the same day as Melt Festival’s River Pride Parade and Melt Opening Night Party at Brisbane Powerhouse, creating an unforgettable day celebrating diversity, inclusion, joy and community across the city.
The Brisbane Pride Festival Launch event will take place on Saturday 26 September, celebrating two months of events that highlight the rich diversity, history, creativity and resilience of Queensland’s LGBTQIA+ communities.
Brisbane Pride President James McCarthy said the 2026 Festival comes at a time when Pride events are more important than ever. “Brisbane Pride has always been about visibility, community and standing together,” said McCarthy.
“At a time when LGBTQIA+ people are once again facing increasing attacks on our rights, our identities and our place in public life, Pride remains both a celebration and a statement.”
“Every person who marches, volunteers, performs, attends an event or simply turns up in support helps demonstrate that our community is strong, proud and here to stay. Pride reminds us how far we’ve come, while reinforcing the work that still lies ahead.”
“We’re thrilled to be returning to New Farm for our Rally, March and Fair Day, taking place on the same day as Melt Festival’s River Pride Parade. Bringing these events together will create an extraordinary day that showcases the strength, diversity and vibrancy of LGBTQIA+ communities across Queensland,” said McCarthy.
Melt Festival’s River Pride Parade will begin at 4.00pm, with the celebrations continuing at the official Melt Opening Night Party from 5.30pm on the Turbine Platform at Brisbane Powerhouse.
Brisbane Powerhouse CEO and Artistic Director Louise Bezzina said Melt Festival was proud to add its own colour to Brisbane’s Pride season. “A rising tide lifts all boats. When one part of our community rises, we all rise with it, and Brisbane’s Pride season is proof of that,” said Bezzina.
“Melt Festival is honoured to stand shoulder to shoulder with Brisbane Pride this year, and we welcome them back to New Farm alongside the River Pride Parade. It is our way of adding to a day the whole city can be proud of.”
Brisbane Pride is also preparing for another vibrant Fair Day, featuring community organisations, businesses, food vendors, entertainers and exhibitors from across Queensland.
Applications for Fair Day stallholders and event listings in the Brisbane Pride Guide are now open with community groups, charities, businesses and food vendors encouraged to apply and be part of one of Queensland’s largest LGBTQIA+ community celebrations.
Further announcements about the full Festival program, performers and event schedule will be made in the coming weeks. For festival updates, follow Brisbane Pride on social media or visit the Brisbane Pride website.
Image: Brisbane Pride Rally and March (supplied)