The landmark National Student Pride event, a cornerstone of the UK's LGBTQIA+ calendar for nearly two decades, will hold its final festival in its current form this weekend. The event, taking place in Brighton on Friday 13th and Saturday 14th February, will mark the end of an era for the celebrated gathering.

Organisers announced the closure in a poignant press release, citing severe financial pressures. They stated that, like many non-profit LGBTQIA+ organisations, they have been significantly impacted by cuts to Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion (DEI) funding and an increasingly difficult funding landscape.

"Despite our best efforts, a lack of long term financial stability means that we cannot continue in our current form," the statement read. It expressed immense pride in the "community, friendships and memories built over the last two decades," noting that since its 2005 inception, the event has served as a vital first Pride, first safe space, and first sense of belonging for countless LGBTQIA+ young people.

The organisers emphasised their hope that this is not a permanent end, but a pause. "Whilst this chapter is coming to a close, we hope that it can return in the future under new stewardship to continue to support LGBTQIA+ young people and students. We believe deeply in its mission and importance."

This weekend's festival is now framed as a celebratory farewell. The team described it as "a celebration of what National Student Pride has been, and of the impact that it has had on so many lives," extending thanks to everyone who has been part of its journey.