OUR HISTORY

The Pink Picnic is Salford Pride’s main project, first delivered in 2011 by our founders Lee Bowditch and Adrian Palmer. The event was established with the support of Salix Homes, working in collaboration with their customer LGBT+ focus group.

The initial planning group came up with a concept of holding an event to bring people together for a fun afternoon, so the Pink Picnic concept was born. Around 15 or so people were envisaged to come to the gathering, but the event attracted more than 120 people on the day. The founders agreed, following the events success, that they would look to deliver The Pink Picnic as an annual event. The following year several different partners were invited to attend the event, along with some acts for entertainment.

Over the last thirteen years Salford Pride has continued the legacy of our founders and The Pink Picnic has grown into Greater Manchesters largest grassroots pride hosting an array of attractions from top headline artists gracing the main stage, community stalls showcasing local groups, charities and organisations, to a youth zone, dog show and activities for all ages. The Pink Picnic now attracts thousands of people from across the Greater Manchester area and beyond to Peel Park, Salford to celebrate, champion and spotlight our diverse communities within Salford.

What makes the The Pink Picnic different to other prides is the love, passion and drive our volunteers commit to ensuring our event has the community at its heart. Since its conception The Pink Picnic remains a community focused event that promotes and raises the visibility of the LGBTQ+ community that live, work and study in Salford. Promoting equality, diversity and inclusion for all in Salford, no matter their background or identity. The event continues to build community cohesion, strengthening our communities it serves and encouraging social interaction, by bringing people together no matter to celebrate equality, diversity and inclusion in Salford and beyond.

Salford Pride will continue to grow The Pink Picnic in years to come expanding to more areas of Peel Park, bringing new features and attractions, but will always ensure our communities are represented and are a central focus of the event. While the event may become more commercialised to ensure it’s success the spirit of the event will always continue to promote the true essence of pride and to ensure LGBTQ+ people feel seen, heard and apart of our wider communities here in Salford.