Dartford is NO LONGER a town that sits on the sidelines. WE are a community that leads, and the upcoming Pride Week 2026 (June 8–14) is the ultimate proof of our collective strength. While other areas might hesitate, we are stepping forward with a BOLD vision of inclusivity and celebration that will resonate across Kent.
At What's On In Dartford, we believe that a vibrant community is a successful community. We aren't just reporting on events; we are championing the spirit of our town. This year, Pride isn't just a day: it’s a declaration. From the historic halls of the Dartford Museum to the modern stage of Orchard West, we are turning the volume UP.
"This is a milestone for us," says the team at What's On In Dartford. "WE HAVE the opportunity to show that Dartford is a beacon of progress and local pride. WITHOUT our participation, we lose the momentum that makes this town thrive. WE MUST SHOW UP."
Here are the 7 must-see events that define Dartford Pride Week 2026.
1. Drag Bingo: The Ultimate Friday Night Takeover (June 12)
If you are looking for a night that combines high-stakes competition with absolute GLAMOUR, then Friday, June 12th is YOUR night. Drag Bingo at Orchard West is NOT your grandmother’s bingo hall. This is a high-octane performance led by local legend Dee Star, widely recognized as the star of Kent.
The stakes are real. Your ticket includes 5 full games of bingo, but the real prize is the atmosphere. Expect lip-sync battles, razor-sharp comedy, and spot prizes that will keep you on the edge of your seat from 7:00 pm to 10:00 pm.
WE CANNOT emphasize enough: these tickets move FAST. If you want to be part of the most talked-about night of the week, you need to book your tickets IMMEDIATELY. This is where the community comes together to laugh, play, and win: WITHOUT apology.
2. PrideFest: The Party 2026 (The Main Stage)
The crown jewel of the week is PrideFest: The Party. Centred at Orchard West in partnership with the Dartford Borough Council, this is the event where the entire town unites. Hosted by the phenomenal Anton Stephans (of X-Factor fame) and Dartford’s own drag powerhouse Sophia Stardust, this is a MASTERCLASS in entertainment.
This is a FREE event, but don't let that fool you into complacency. ADVANCE BOOKING is highly recommended. Not only does it secure your spot, but all pre-booked tickets enter a prize draw for future Orchard West shows.
WE ARE PROUD to support an event that brings live music, food, drink, and community stalls into one explosive package. This is the heart of Pride Week: a place where families, residents, and visitors see exactly what Dartford is made of. Check our event venues section for more details on locations.
3. Pride Cinema: "The Adventures of Priscilla, Queen of the Desert"
Culture is the backbone of any great movement. This year, Pride Week takes over the silver screen with a special screening of the cult classic “The Adventures of Priscilla, Queen of the Desert”.
This isn't just a movie night; it’s a cinematic celebration of identity and resilience. Watching this masterpiece in the heart of Dartford reminds us that the journey toward equality is both a struggle and a celebration. WE must remember our history to build our future. This screening is a critical part of the week's cultural tapestry, providing a space for both reflection and joy.
4. Dartford Museum: A Dedicated Pride Exhibition
Dartford is a town with a rich industrial heritage, dating back to its origins as a Roman settlement at the 'Darent ford'. But history is NOT just about paper mills and river crossings; it is about PEOPLE.
The Dartford Museum is hosting a dedicated Pride exhibition exploring local LGBTQ+ history and voices. This is a STARK CONTRAST to the idea that Pride is only about the "now." WE are reclaiming our past. By showcasing the stories of those who lived and worked in Dartford throughout the decades, we ground our current celebrations in reality.
Visit the museum to see how Dartford has evolved from a 16th-century industrial hub to a 21st-century leader in inclusivity. It is a MUST for anyone who values the true story of our town.
5. Prescription Poetry: The Creative Pulse of the Town
Creativity is a weapon for change. The "Prescription Poetry" workshop is a unique initiative where eight selected poets will have their work displayed throughout Dartford during Pride week.
Each selected poet receives a £45 prize, but the real value is the visibility. Imagine walking down the High Street and seeing the words of your neighbors inspiring the community. This event proves that WE CAN empower local artists to lead the conversation. It turns the entire town into a living gallery of expression and hope.
6. The Community Fair: Strength in Numbers
On the main festival day, the area surrounding Orchard West and our local parks will transform into a vibrant Community Fair. This is where the "us vs. them" mentality disappears. It is an all-ages space where local makers, charity partners, and families connect.
Whether you are looking for handmade crafts or looking to support local LGBTQ+ charities, the fair is the place to be. It is the tactical core of the week: where the grassroots effort of our town is on full display. WE are stronger when we stand together, and the Community Fair is the physical manifestation of that strength. For more family-friendly activities, explore our activities guide.
7. Pride Around Town: Local Business Leadership
Finally, we look to the streets. "Pride Around Town" is where Dartford’s business community steps up. From the High Street to the local pubs, shopfronts will be decorated, and "Pride Specials" will be on the menu all week long.
WE see this as an EPISODE OF ACHIEVEMENT for our local economy. When businesses participate in Pride, they aren't just selling products; they are making a BOLD DECISION to support their customers and their community.
Whether you’re grabbing a coffee or shopping for the weekend, look for the rainbow. These businesses are the lifeblood of our town, and their support is ROBUST. You can find many of these local champions in our business directory.
Conclusion: THE TIME IS NOW
Dartford Pride Week 2026 is more than a series of events. It is a mission. WE have the talent, the venues, and the heart to make this the most successful Pride in Kent’s history.
WITHOUT YOU, the celebration is incomplete. WE invite you to join us at Orchard West, at the museum, and in the streets. Let’s show the world that Dartford doesn't just follow: WE LEAD.
Stay updated on all the latest developments and booking links at What's On In Dartford. We will see you on the front lines of the celebration.
Credit: the team at What's On In Dartford
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