Most of us have already accepted the fact that summer of 2020 is going to be ruined, and although over 100 Pride events had been cancelled around the world, there was still a glimmer of hope that 2020 was entirely shit-covered.
‘Even if lockdown lasted a couple of months, we could still be out for Brighton Pride’ (2nd August), so went the trail of thought. Until it was announced this morning that it would in fact be cancelled due to the impact and spread of COVID-19.
Organisers said the decision was made with “a heavy heart” and that they’ve been “shocked and devastated by the unprecedented turn of events over the past weeks – especially the catastrophic health and economic impacts this pandemic is having on members of our community.”
Ultimately, while organisers were initially waiting nearer the time of the event to make concrete decisions, it was the added pressure to emergency services the event would have added to the pandemic which confirmed the cancellation.
“We know, when the time is right, it will be even more important for people to come back together and celebrate our communities and city,” it says.
The weekend was set to celebrate their 30th anniversary with Mariah Carey and the Pussycat Dolls headlining.
Ticket holders will have their tickets rolled over to 2021’s event. Those who cannot attend next year are being asked to donate their tickets to the fundraising projects Brighton and Hove Pride contributes to. Those deciding not to, can apply for a refund via the website.