Gateshead’s biggest Pride celebration begins at Metrocentre 

After a hugely successful debut in 2024, Metrocentre is once again bringing colour, music and community spirit to Town Square with a joyful event this Saturday from 10am until 4pm.

Organised in partnership with Gateshead Council and Gateshead College, brought to life by the team at Out North East, the event marks the beginning of a packed Pride programme, with a day designed to celebrate love, individuality and inclusion.

This year’s celebrations promise a full lineup of entertainment and experiences for the whole family. Visitors can enjoy live performances from local buskers, supported by HMV. The Metrognomes will also make a special appearance, adding sparkles and smiles throughout the day.

Beauty lovers can look forward to a touch of sparkle and self-care with LUSH hosting a glitter and makeup station, as well as inviting guests to get creative with their own bath bomb-making experience. The Body Shop will offer skincare demonstrations and tips, while H Beauty will be providing complimentary beauty services and showcasing some of their favourite products.

Families can take part in a whole host of free, interactive activities throughout the day, including face painting, kids’ craft stations, and vibrant selfie spots. There will also be giveaways and plenty of colour-filled moments and sweet treats from Hotel Chocolat and cool scoops from Snowflake.

Helen Atkinson, Metrocentre Marketing Manager, said: “It’s wonderful to see Gateshead Pride return to Metrocentre for the second year. Last year’s event was full of joy, colour and community spirit and we’re thrilled to welcome everyone back to what promises to be bigger, brighter and even more vibrant.”

LGBTQ+ charities and organisations, brought together by Out North East, will be on hand with stalls, resources, and information, offering support and raising awareness. Groups taking part include Northern Proud Voices, Pride Action North, Newcastle Panthers, Safer To Be Me, Foster with North East and Gateshead College.

Peter Darrant, Chair at Out North East, said: “We’re thrilled to be partnering once again with our friends at Metrocentre to help launch this year’s Pride in Gateshead. Metrocentre continues to be a brilliant champion of inclusivity and community, and we’re excited to host this event and share everything planned for the month ahead across Gateshead.” 

As part of this year’s celebrations, visitors can explore Emerald 55, a striking exhibition displayed on the hoardings around the Forum at Metrocentre throughout August. Created by Out North East, Emerald 55 showcases personal stories, protest messages and moments of pride from across the community, connecting past struggles with present-day experiences. 

Councillor Freda Geddes, Mayor of Gateshead, added: “It’s always inspiring to see our community come together to celebrate love, diversity and inclusion. Pride is a powerful reminder that Gateshead is a place where everyone is welcome and valued. We’re proud to support events like this that reflect the spirit, creativity and unity of our borough.”