Celebrating Canterbury Pride 2025 in Westgate Gardens – A Vibrant Day of Love, Colour, and Community

8 Jun

Canterbury Pride returned this June with a burst of energy, transforming the city into a celebration of love, inclusion, and vibrant self-expression. This year’s event saw a change of scenery, moving from the usual Dane John Gardens to the picturesque Westgate Gardens due to ongoing renovation works. Despite the shift in location and a slightly more relaxed setup, the spirit of Pride was stronger than ever.

As an event photographer based in Kent, I had the opportunity to document the joy, colour, and unforgettable moments that filled the day.

A New Location, Same Pride Atmosphere

With Dane John Gardens temporarily out of action, Westgate Gardens and Toddlers Cove provided a scenic and family-friendly alternative. Although this year’s event featured a more toned-down format with no main stage, the heart of Pride remained—community, visibility, and celebration.

The Pride Parade marched proudly through the streets of Canterbury, turning heads and spreading joy with rainbow flags, music, and a truly electric energy. For anyone behind the lens, it was a dream: colourful costumes, smiling faces, and powerful moments of connection all around the city centre.

Westgate Gardens: Community, Colour, and Celebration

Once the parade reached Westgate Gardens and Toddlers Cove, festival-goers enjoyed a variety of experiences and entertainment. Highlights included:

A wide range of local food vendors offering everything from street food favourites to sweet treats
Charity and community stalls supporting LGBTQ+ rights and local initiatives
Live music filling the gardens with rhythm and energy
Stilt walkers, drag queens, and roaming performers adding flair to the day
Bouncy castles and activities, making it a truly family-friendly event

While the event may have been more low-key without a central stage, the inclusive, joyful atmosphere was unmistakable.

Professional Event Photography in Canterbury and Kent

Events like Canterbury Pride are a reminder of the importance of community and celebration. Capturing these moments through photography is about more than just images—it's about preserving the energy, emotion, and human connection.

If you're looking for event photography in Canterbury or the wider Kent area, I offer bespoke photography services that focus on storytelling and authenticity. Whether you’re a performer, stallholder, organiser, or attendee, I’ll work with you to ensure your presence is captured with care and creativity.