Find new friends and connections here
Trans Pride NI has made a triumphant return with its 2025 festival, a vibrant celebration that highlights the resilience and strength of the trans community in Belfast. Established to champion the rights and visibility of transgender and non-binary individuals, Trans Pride NI plays a pivotal role in advocating for equality and fostering community cohesion. With events running from August 31 to September 27, this year’s programme blends celebration with advocacy.
In light of recent legal challenges, including the Northern Ireland Executive’s ban on puberty blockers for under-18s and the UK Supreme Court’s ruling affecting the definition of ‘woman’ in the Equality Act 2010, the festival comes at a crucial time. These developments have sparked concern and confusion within the community, directly impacting the well-being and legal recognition of those affected. This situation has prompted organisations like Trans Pride NI to mobilise efforts in both celebration and protest.
The festival kicked off with the Queer Belfast Market on August 31, where trans and queer vendors showcased their arts and crafts, reflecting the creative spirit and entrepreneurial energy of the community. Another highlight was Laugh Hole x Trans Pride on September 5, an evening at Paperxclips featuring an exclusively trans and non-binary lineup of comics.
"Laughter is our form of resistance,"
noted one performer, capturing the significance of comedy as unity.
Artist Alley on September 7 at Black Box provided a platform for trans and non-binary artists, with visitors indulging in zines, prints, and apparel that reflect diverse lived experiences. Meanwhile, Trans Café on September 8 at Hustle offered attendees the chance to hear personal stories from a panel of trans and non-binary speakers—critical discourse amid current sociopolitical climates.
Health and well-being were not overlooked, with a free rapid HIV and syphilis testing clinic held on September 9 at the Belfast LGBT Centre, underscoring the importance of accessible healthcare. Companionable events such as Trans Tea on September 10 at Foyle LGBTQ+ Centre fostered connection and dialogue over a comforting cup.
For those inclined towards nature, the Divis & Black Mountain Walk on September 11 presented an opportunity to enjoy the outdoors in a guided trek through picturesque landscapes. For the literary-minded, Sad Dyke Poetry on September 12 invited trans and queer poets to voice their artistry in an open-mic format, celebrating the power of the written word.
The heart of the festival culminates in the Trans Pride NI Rally on September 13 at Writer’s Square, a focal point for speeches and performances that galvanize the community.
"Our strength lies in our unity and advocacy,"
said an organizer during the rally. Post-rally celebrations are set to ignite spirits at The Maverick with an official after-party featuring dazzling drag acts and performers.
Furthermore, Queen’s Film Theatre will screen "Shinjuku Boys," a poignant documentary exploring the lives of non-binary and transgender men in Tokyo, offering a global perspective on gender identity.
The festival closes on September 27 with a trans-only swimming event, reinforcing community bonds in a supportive environment.
Trans Pride NI’s festival serves as both a sanctuary and a living testament to the community’s perseverance. As the trans community in Belfast faces adversity, these events galvanize solidarity, showcasing the diverse tapestry of trans and non-binary lives while challenging societal norms. Looking ahead, the festival’s impact resonates beyond its duration, inspiring ongoing advocacy and unity in an ever-shifting political landscape. For updates and further details, festival-goers are encouraged to follow Trans Pride NI’s social media channels.