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 Arts Trail – From 17 May
30 LGBTQ+ artists transform central Manchester with installations, photography, and film. A celebration of queer love, resistance, and creativity — stretching from Piccadilly to the Gay Village.
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 – From 17 May
Gamers and streamers unite! Share joy, raise funds, and use your platform to power change for LGBTQ+ communities.
LGBT Foundation Online Shop – Launching end of May
Support our work by shopping exclusive merch and archival prints inspired by decades of activism and heritage.
LGBT Foundation Pride Tour 2025
Catch our 50th celebrations at Prides across the country in Manchester, Coventry, Liverpool, Birmingham and more!
The Return of OutNorthWest – June
Our iconic LGBTQ+ lifestyle and culture magazine returns for a special collector’s edition. Looking back — and marching forward.
LGBT Foundation x Google Arts & Culture – From 26 June
Explore our heritage and Manchester’s queer history like never before — through powerful digital storytelling with global reach.
Exhibition: Manchester Central Library – From 26 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.
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
We’re launching our first-ever national billboard campaign this summer and are inviting LGBTQ+ women to take part and shape the tapestry of sisterhood across the country.
