In 2025, LGBT Foundation proudly marks 50 years of life-saving support, community empowerment, and relentless activism. To celebrate this historic milestone, we’re unleashing a bold, joyful, and defiant summer programme that puts queer culture, history, and hope centre stage — right across Greater Manchester and beyond.
Because the fight isn’t over.
As LGBTQ+ communities continue to face rising hate, growing political hostility, and attacks on our rights and visibility, this anniversary is more than a celebration — it’s a declaration. A chance to reflect on how far we’ve come, recommit to progress, and turn pride into power. This is about showing up for each other, taking up space, and sharing our stories with joy, pride, and resilience.
From a dazzling Rainbow Arts Trail and golden Pride parade moments to the return of OutNorthWest, a partnership with Google Arts & Culture, and a powerful new exhibition, we’re bringing our history to life and inspiring future generations to carry it forward.
For 50 years, people like you—our supporters, allies, and community members—have been the driving force behind our mission. This anniversary is about recognising your contributions and giving everyone a chance to join in the celebration.
This is your celebration, too. Whether you’ve been part of our journey for decades or are just joining us, there are many ways to celebrate with us!
Rainbow Wave: Great Manchester Run – 18 May
50 runners mark 50 years of activism and queer joy in a high-visibility moment of movement and momentum.
Streaming for Good
Gamers and streamers unite! Share joy, raise funds, and use your platform to power change for LGBTQ+ communities. Get involved today!
This is What A Woman Looks Like
Our national campaign spotlighting what it means to be a woman in 2025 today, featuring the voices and stories of women living and working in the UK.
Learn how to support the women in your life!
LGBT Foundation Online Shop – From the end of May
Support our work by shopping exclusive merch and archival prints inspired by decades of activism and heritage. Shop the collection now!
LGBT Foundation Pride Tour 2025
Catch our 50th celebrations at Prides across the country in Manchester, Coventry, Liverpool, Birmingham and more!
Google Arts and Culture Online Collection – From 27 June
Explore our heritage and Manchester’s queer history like never before — through powerful digital storytelling with global reach.
Exhibition: Manchester Central Library – From 27 June
Step into our story. Discover 50 years of activism, support, and resilience in a new interactive exhibition
LGBTQ+ Heritage Walk Tour – 7 August
In partnership with the Royal Town Planning Institute and Manchester Pride, explore the queer spaces that shaped our city.
Sapphic Showcase Returns – 21 August
An electric night of poetry, music, dance, and performance — uplifting the voices and talents of LGBTQ+ women.
The Return of OutNorthWest – September
Our iconic LGBTQ+ lifestyle and culture magazine returns for a special collector’s edition. Looking back — and marching forward. Experience the digital version here!
Community Playlist Live! – 9 October
We celebrated LGBTQ+ music and history at John Rylands with their exhibition The Secret Public: LGBTQ Pop 1955 – 1985, our archive items and a community-curated playlist of LGBTQ+ anthems!
Share Your Story and help us tell the history of LGBTQ+ communities by contributing to our Online Memory Box or online with #LGBTFoundation50
Volunteer, with us and be part of
the 50th-anniversary team
– help make the celebrations unforgettable while making friends, learning new skills and having a
brilliant time.
Donate and support the next 50 years of life-changing work with a gift that will make a difference and secure the wellbeing of the next generation.
National Billboard Campaign No.2
We’re launching our second national billboard campaign this summer in partnership with Open Media and are inviting LGBTQ+ men to take part and shape the conversation around queer identities and masculinity.
LGBT Foundation’s 50th Anniversary is proudly supported by
