Disappointment as Stafford Pride parade cancelled due to low participation and engagement

There is disappointment and upset as Stafford Pride parade has been cancelled this year.

Stafford Pride posted the announcement on its Facebook page yesterday (Tuesday 9 June) saying that the parade event is cancelled due to low participation and engagement.

It said: “It is with disappointment that we announce the Stafford Pride Parade will not take place this year.

“Due to lower-than-needed participation and engagement, we have made the difficult decision to pause the parade for 2026”.

The statement adds: “Instead we will be refocusing our funding and resources towards delivering a bigger, stronger, and more sustainable Stafford Pride Festival in Victoria Park.

“We would like to thank everyone who has already purchased tickets to the festival and look forward to welcoming you into Victoria Park in a few months time.

“Pride is a protest; and our protest marches on”.

Stafford Pride stressed that it is just the parade event that is cancelled, and that the festival will still be going ahead as normal on Saturday 8 August.

Users in the comments expressed their disappointment as the parade being cancelled.

One user wrote: “Gutted. I have been so unbelievably proud to march these last two years and the reception has been amazing. I’ll see you all there for a big leathery hug!”.

Another commented: “Sad to hear this, the parade is always good fun! Hopefully it can be re-instated next year”.