Pride Edinburgh 2025: parade, dates and events

Pride Edinburgh 2025 is set to take place on Saturday, 21st June 2025. Tourists can mix with locals, politicians, campaigners and even celebrities. Besides the march, there'll be plenty of activities, events and parties.

Pride Edinburgh Parade

The march will proceed from the Scottish Parliament through Canongate, High Street, George IV Bridge, Bristo Place, Lothian Street, Potterrow, Crichton Street, and Charles Street, concluding at the Pride Edinburgh Festival Village in the EUSA Complex.

Pride Edinburgh History

Pride Edinburgh's roots can be traced back to 1995 when Scotland's first major Pride event, known as Pride Scotia, was established. The inaugural Pride Scotia march took place on June 17, 1995, in Edinburgh, gathering on Barony Street with an estimated 3,000 participants. The march followed a route through Broughton Street, Leith Street, Princes Street, the Mound, George IV Bridge, and down Middle Meadow Walk into the Meadows, where a festival with a stage and stalls was held.

From 1995 to 2008, Pride Scotia operated as Scotland's national LGBTQ+ Pride festival, alternating between Edinburgh and Glasgow each year. This arrangement allowed both major Scottish cities to host Pride celebrations.

From its modest beginnings in 1995, Pride Edinburgh has grown to attract over 10,000 marchers in recent years, reflecting increasing acceptance and visibility for Scotland's LGBTQ+ community.

For hotel reservations, check our list of the best hotels in Edinburgh for gay travelers.