As the vibrant festivities of Manchester Pride 2025 drew to a close, thousands converged on Sackville Gardens for a deeply moving candlelight vigil that blended celebration with solemn reflection. This annual tradition, held on August 25, paused the party’s energy for two hours to honor those lost to HIV and AIDS, while reinforcing the ongoing fight against stigma and for LGBTQ+ equality. Hosted in partnership with George House Trust, the event featured powerful performances and messages of solidarity, drawing around 100,000 attendees over the weekend and underscoring Manchester’s enduring spirit of unity.
A Moment of Reflection Amid the Revelry
The vigil provided a stark yet beautiful contrast to the high-energy performances from stars like Olly Alexander, Leigh-Anne, and Nelly Furtado that defined the four-day festival. Under a heatwave sun, participants lit candles in a sea of light, symbolizing hope and remembrance.
This year’s event, marking George House Trust’s 40th anniversary, included recitals, activism moments, and speeches that highlighted progress and persistent challenges in HIV awareness. Attendees shared stories of loss and resilience, creating an atmosphere of collective healing. Social media posts captured the emotional depth, with one user noting the profound impact of singing in memory of those affected by HIV, violence, and mental health issues.
The vigil’s free access ensured broad participation, livestreamed for those unable to attend in person.
Honoring the Past and Fighting Stigma
Actor Adam Ali, known for roles in Waterloo Road, hosted the vigil, promising and delivering a compelling show that mixed celebration with activism.
Historical parallels from past Prides, such as the 2019 gathering where hundreds filled the gardens to combat HIV stigma, echoed in this year’s turnout. Recent web reports emphasize how the vigil stops the party to reflect on equality’s ongoing battle. One poignant moment featured words from figures like Russell T Davies, resonating deeply with the crowd.
| Key Elements of the Vigil | Description |
|---|---|
| Location | Sackville Gardens, Manchester’s Gay Village |
| Time | 9 PM on August 25, 2025 |
| Partners | George House Trust (celebrating 40 years) |
| Activities | Candle lighting, performances, speeches on HIV awareness |
| Attendance | Thousands, part of 100,000 festival-goers |
This structure not only remembers the lost but also educates on early diagnosis and solidarity.
Community Solidarity Shines Through
Posts on X highlighted the vigil’s emotional weight, with descriptions of a “beautiful sea of candles” and crowds standing united against oppression.
The event’s inclusivity drew families, allies, and community members, reinforcing Manchester Pride’s role as one of the UK’s longest-running LGBTQ+ festivals from August 15 to 25. Reflections from previous years, including tributes to victims of violence like Brianna Ghey, added layers of meaning.
In a city known for resilience, such as the Glade of Light memorial, this vigil reaffirmed love over hate.
Looking Ahead to Future Prides
While the 2025 vigil concluded on a note of hope, it sparked discussions on evolving Pride traditions amid political contexts.
Organizers teased upcoming workshops and rallies, encouraging continued activism. The blend of partying and protesting ensures Manchester Pride remains a beacon for change.
