Frequently Asked Questions
Why are tickets no longer free?
Since Isle of Wight Pride held its first event in 2017, celebrating the Islands LGBTQIA+ community, its history, culture, and achievements, the beach entertainment has been free to attend. For the first time, in 2025, general admission tickets for the beach entertainment will no longer be free.
This decision has not been made lightly. Increasing operational costs, companies reducing and spreading sponsorship more widely, and attendance never guaranteed due to the weather and the resulting impact on income, have been factored into this decision.
Last year, when tickets for the beach entertainment were free, only half of those who secured tickets attended. This prevented many people who turned up on the day without a ticket having access due to licensing restrictions on the number of attendees. Those who purchase a ticket are more likely to attend. Charging will also reduce financial risks of staging the event, enable other events to take place during the year and help to create a sustainable future for the charity. The parade and community village will continue to be free to attend.
While we are now charging for general admission tickets, we will endeavour to keep prices as reasonable as possible.
-
Do children need tickets for Isle of Wight Pride?
Yes, due to licensing restrictions every person who attends a Pride event on the beach must have a ticket. Discounted tickets are available for children aged 6-11 years and infants under 5's are free. These can be added when purchasing an adult ticket.
-
Will Isle of Wight Pride be wheelchair accessible?
Yes, there will be trackway on Harbour Beach making the site wheelchair accessible. Eastern Gardens will also be wheelchair accessible.
-
Can I march in the Pride Parade if I’m not with a group or organisation?
Yes, if you would like to join the Parade please register through the link below, once applications open.
-
Can I take children into the VIP area?
No, the VIP area is strictly 18+ only. Photo ID may be required.
-
Can I bring food and/or drink?
No food or drink (except bottled water) can be brought into the beach arena.
-
Are dogs allowed?
Dogs are not permitted within the beach arena (except assistance dogs).
-
Where is the nearest public transport?
Ryde Bus Station, Ryde Esplanade Train Station, Hovertravel and Wightlink Fastcat are all within walking distance of the event. Please see our travel info page for full details and travel map, the link to this is below.
-
Where can I park?
The closest car park to the site is Quay Road car park which is operated by the Council as a pay and display car park. Please see our travel info page for full details of local car parks and options, the link to this is below.
-
How can I get to the Isle of Wight?
Please see our travel info page for full details of ferries to/from the Island, the link to this is below.