THOUSANDS of revellers flocked to Preston Park today for Brighton Pride’s flagship celebration, Pride on the Park, a spectacular that saw global stars light up the main stage.
Headlining the event was Mariah Carey, who refused the press to take photographs, delivered a performance to a sold-out crowd. The global icon, marking her first UK festival appearance in six years, performed a string of chart-topping hits, including We Belong Together, Fantasy and It’s Like That.
Earlier in the day, festival-goers were treated to a string of high-energy performances celebrating the best of pop, disco, electro and queer music culture.
Opening the main stage was Brighton-based duo ABSNT MIND, setting the tone with a bold, upbeat electro-pop set. They were followed by disco legends Sister Sledge ft Kathy Sledge, who had the crowd dancing with classics like We Are Family and He’s the Greatest Dancer.
Pop provocateur Slayyyter turned heads with a fierce and unapologetic performance, before fan-favourite Ashnikko took things up a gear with her genre-blending style and rebellious energy.
Australian duo Confidence Man brought their signature humour and high-tempo beats, sending the crowd into a euphoric frenzy, while Eurovision winner Loreen stunned with powerhouse vocals drawing a huge response with her anthem Euphoria.
Pride continues on Sunday at Preston Park with act such as Fat Boy Slim, Will Young, Natalie Imbruglia and Sugababes.