Manchester Pride Enters Voluntary Liquidation With £230,000 Debt Impacting Staff, Performers

Manchester Pride, the organization responsible for the city's annual pride events, has announced it is entering voluntary liquidation due to financial difficulties stemming from rising costs, declining ticket sales, and an unsuccessful bid to host Euro Pride. The charity, which has run events since 1985, has ceased trading with a debt of over £230,000 and will make its staff redundant. Performers and creatives who worked at the August 2025 event have not yet been paid, causing significant distress, and Equity is urging those owed money to come forward for assistance in recovering payments. The Board of Trustees expressed deep regret and thanked staff, volunteers, and supporters for their contributions, while the liquidators will now handle communications with suppliers and artists owed money. Despite efforts to reduce costs and secure funding, including reducing staff and overheads, the organization was unable to find a viable solution to its financial issues. Manchester Pride organizers highlighted the significant economic and community impact of the festival over the years and expressed sincere apologies to those financially affected by the liquidation.