From the bustling streets of Cardiff to the rolling hills of Torfaen, Pride in Wales is more than a calendar event—it’s a movement. A celebration. A moment for communities to stand tall, be seen, and demand equality. But what makes Pride Wales truly special is its diversity. This isn’t just one event or one organisation. It’s a tapestry of local efforts, grassroots champions, and bold, inclusive celebrations woven across the country.
In this post, we explore the growing significance of Pride in Wales—how it reflects the heart of our LGBT+ communities, why local Prides like Torfaen Pride matter more than ever, and how groups such as Club F.O.D Cymru are transforming visibility and inclusion from the ground up.
The Evolution of Pride in Wales
Wales has a long-standing history of activism and community solidarity. While Pride Cymru in Cardiff remains the country’s largest and best-known Pride celebration, it no longer stands alone. Over the past decade, towns and valleys across Wales have launched their own events to ensure that representation isn't limited to capital cities or urban centres.
From Newport and Swansea to Llandrindod Wells and Wrexham, communities have come together to amplify the voices of those too often unheard—especially in rural and semi-rural areas where LGBT+ visibility can still be a challenge.
In Torfaen, the introduction of its own local Pride has helped bridge the gap between national conversations and local action. Held in Pontypool Park, this Pride embodies the spirit of Welsh resilience, unity, and celebration.
Why Local Pride Events Matter
While large-scale events like Pride Cymru play an important national role, it’s often the local Prides that create lasting grassroots impact. In Wales, where transport links and access to services vary significantly, having a Pride close to home means that:
- LGBT+ people and allies can celebrate safely in their own communities
- Local councils and businesses are encouraged to publicly show support
- People in more isolated areas can access resources and networks
- Events reflect local culture, needs, and history
Torfaen Pride, for example, was founded with the belief that “Pride should belong to everyone—especially those in places it often bypasses.” By combining community-led planning with inclusivity at its core, it has grown into one of the most authentic Welsh Pride events, free from commercial pressures and rooted in real-life stories.
Club F.O.D Cymru and the Importance of Ongoing Visibility
The success of Pride Wales doesn’t rest solely on annual events. Visibility, advocacy, and support must be year-round commitments, and that’s where organisations like Club F.O.D Cymru play a vital role.
Club F.O.D Cymru works to reduce social isolation among LGBT+ people in Wales through:
- Peer-led social spaces that are alcohol-free and welcoming to all
- Community outreach to reach those disconnected from traditional support networks
- Collaborative partnerships with Pride organisers to ensure inclusivity and accessibility
Both Torfaen Pride and Club F.O.D Cymru recognise that intersectionality matters. Many people within the LGBT+ community also live with disability, are carers, face economic hardship, or experience marginalisation due to race or faith. Pride in Wales must reflect all of these realities—not just the rainbow headline.
Wales’ Pride Calendar: A Growing Movement
Pride Wales is no longer just about one or two flagship events. The calendar is expanding, and each new addition brings something unique.
Here are some of the key events helping to shape the Welsh Pride landscape:
- Pride Cymru (Cardiff): A nationally recognised event featuring parades, performances, and political engagement
- Swansea Pride: Vibrant and inclusive, with strong student and community backing
- Wrexham Pride: A growing northern voice for representation in rural and bilingual areas
- Llanelli Pride: Intimate but powerful, with a focus on local youth
- Torfaen Pride: Community-run, rooted in social change, and uniquely responsive to the needs of local residents
Each event complements the others, forming a decentralised yet united front for LGBT+ equality in Wales.
You can view our Wales' Pride Calendar here.
Representation in Rural Wales
It’s important to acknowledge that rural Wales has often been underrepresented in national LGBT+ discussions. But Pride in these areas isn’t new—it’s just been overlooked.
Torfaen Pride works hard to bring visibility to valleys and towns that are rarely spotlighted. It’s here, in smaller communities, that inclusive language, visibility, and allyship can make the greatest difference.
And the truth is, Welsh LGBT+ people don’t just live in Cardiff. They live in Blaenavon, Pontypool, Abertillery, and Cwmbran. They deserve Pride that speaks to them.
That’s why the work of Torfaen Pride, in collaboration with local authorities, youth services, and organisations like Club F.O.D Cymru, is so important. It ensures that no one is left out.
The Role of Education and Advocacy
Pride Wales is not just about celebration—it’s also a chance to:
- Educate allies about inclusive language, trans rights, and the importance of visibility
- Challenge institutions to do better—from councils to schools and healthcare providers
- Amplify voices from underrepresented groups within the LGBT+ umbrella
Both Torfaen Pride and Club F.O.D Cymru run workshops, talks, and campaigns year-round—not just in June. Topics range from understanding pronouns to supporting LGBT+ youth in care, ensuring the conversation never ends when the stages are packed away.
Jamie Says:
“Pride in Wales isn’t something that happens once a year—it’s something we build together, all year round. At Torfaen Pride, we believe every community deserves a platform. And every person deserves to feel seen.”
Building the Future of Pride Wales
As Pride Wales continues to evolve, its future must remain authentically community-driven. That means:
- Investing in smaller, local events
- Listening to the voices of young people, elders, and trans folk
- Ensuring accessibility, bilingualism, and intersectionality
- Uplifting underrepresented areas like the South Wales Valleys
Pride is a protest. Pride is a party. Pride is progress. And in Wales, it’s growing stronger each year—thanks to people who care enough to show up, speak out, and make space for others.
Whether you're in the heart of Cardiff or on the hillside in Pontypool, Pride Wales belongs to you.
Proud to be You

If you believe in a Wales where everyone can live proudly and freely, support your local Pride. Come to Torfaen Pride. Volunteer. Share stories. Be an ally.
Because when we all show up for each other, we all rise.
đź—“ Torfaen Pride takes place annually on the first Saturday in June at Pontypool Park.
đź’› Follow Club F.O.D Cymru and Torfaen Pride for year-round updates, workshops, and community actions.
