Guidance Notes and Specifications for Parade Groups Without Floats

 

What is a Float?

A float includes any of the following:

• Motorised vehicles
• Tuk-tuks or rickshaws
• Trolleys larger than 1m x 1m
• Large inflatables
• More than 9 bicycles
• Multi-person puppets

Groups can only bring one type of float (e.g., vehicle or inflatable—not both).

 

General Guidance

To ensure a safe and enjoyable experience for everyone, each group must adhere to the following guidance and specifications. These guidelines are informed by feedback, Pride in London’s operational experience, and consultation with the Greater London Authority and other agencies.

All participants and groups are also expected to follow the Code of Conduct and the Pride Pledge. Failure to comply may result in exclusion from future parades.

 

Your parade group

Parade Wristbands

• Every participant must wear a Pride in London parade wristband to access the event.
• Wristbands will be available for collection at a central London location in the weeks leading up to the parade. Details will be provided closer to the date.
• Wristbands must be distributed and worn before arriving at the parade entry point.
• Children must wear wristbands and are included in your group’s allocation. Babies who cannot walk and are carried throughout the parade are excluded from this requirement.

 

Age Restrictions

• Children under 16 must be accompanied by an adult responsible for their safety and welfare at all times.
• Groups with children should have safeguarding measures in place, including plans for reuniting if separated. Pride stewards can assist if needed.

 

Animals and Pets

• Pets are not allowed in the parade due to the loud and busy environment.
• Assistance animals are permitted, but you must notify Pride in London in advance.
• Owners are fully responsible for any animals brought to the parade.

 

Arrival Times

• Arrival Times: Groups must arrive at their allocated time, which can range from 10:00 AM to 4:30 PM.
• Vehicles: Floats and vehicles must arrive earlier (8:00 AM to 11:00 AM) to avoid movement in the form-up area while walkers are arriving.
• Expect a 60–90 minute wait between arrival and the start of the parade route, which can vary due to unforeseen circumstances. Use this time to connect with other participants!

 

Participant Requirements

• Substance Use: Participants must not be intoxicated by alcohol or under the influence of illegal drugs. Illegal substances will be reported to the police.
• Glass Prohibition: Glass bottles or drinking glasses are not allowed due to safety risks. Use reusable, non-glass containers.
• Attire: Participants are encouraged to express themselves through attire. However, clothing must meet the minimum legal standard (e.g., equivalent to swimwear). Offensive or obscene dress is not permitted.
• Parade Flow: Groups must maintain the parade’s pace, avoiding gaps, and must not stop for photos or performances en route.
• Group Placement: Groups must stay in their assigned position relative to other groups or vehicles to ensure safety and order.
• Environmental Considerations: Single-use plastics are prohibited. Drinking water will be provided in the form-up area; bring a refillable bottle to collect water.

 

Limitations on Activities in the Parade

• Donations and Sales: Soliciting donations or collecting money (e.g., “text to donate” signs, cash/card payments) is not allowed.
• Prohibited Items: The use of smoke machines, flares, pyrotechnics, or fireworks is strictly forbidden.
• Merchandise Distribution: Handing out items requires prior approval. Contact parade@prideinlondon.org to request approval.
• Music: Music is allowed only on the parade route (after the start arch and before the finish arch). Music is prohibited in the form-up and dispersal areas.

 

Environmental Considerations

• Use ethically sourced materials and avoid single-use plastics wherever possible.
• Recycle or reuse decorations and materials after the event.

 

Design Elements

• Trolleys or carts must be no larger than 1m x 1m to conserve space in the form-up area.
• Decorations must be securely fixed to avoid falling during the parade.
• Electrical items must be Portable Appliance Tested (PAT).
• Petrol generators are not allowed; use battery-powered or, if essential, diesel generators.

 

Parade Briefings

• Parade briefings are essential for group leaders, providing detailed information about the event and deadlines.
• Attendance is required for new group leaders or groups new to the parade.
• Briefings last approximately 2 hours and are held online or in central London. Dates and links will be provided in advance.

 

Parade Socials

Pride in London will organise social events to help group leaders meet the parade team and connect with other groups.

 

We look forward to seeing you at the parade and hope you enjoy celebrating with us!

 

Guidance Notes and Specifications for Parade Groups with Floats

Pride in London aims to create a safe, inclusive, and enjoyable experience for everyone while maintaining high standards of safety and sustainability. Each group participating with a float must adhere to the following guidelines and specifications.

 

What is a Float?

A float includes any of the following:

• Motorised vehicles
• Tuk-tuks or rickshaws
• Trolleys larger than 1m x 1m
• Large inflatables
• More than 9 bicycles
• Multi-person puppets

Each group is limited to one type of float (e.g., a vehicle or inflatable) unless specified otherwise.

 

General Guidance

This guide has been developed based on feedback, operational experience, and consultation with the Greater London Authority and other agencies. All groups must also adhere to the Code of Conduct and Pride Pledge to ensure a safe and positive experience for everyone. Failure to comply may result in exclusion from future parades.

 

Your parade group

Parade Wristbands

• Wristbands are required for every participant and must be collected from a central London location in the two weeks leading up to the parade.
• Wristbands must be distributed and worn before arriving at the entry point.
• Children must wear wristbands and are included in your group allocation, except for babies who cannot walk and are carried throughout the parade.

 

Age Restrictions

• Children under 16 must be accompanied by an adult responsible for their safety and welfare.
• Groups with children must have safeguarding measures in place and contingency plans if the group becomes separated.

 

Animals and Pets

• Pets are not allowed in the parade, except for registered assistance animals. Notify Pride in London in advance if a member of your group intends to bring an assistance animal.
• Owners are fully responsible for any animals brought to the parade.

 

Arrival Times

• Groups must arrive at the entry point during the allocated time slot, which may range from 10:00 AM to 4:30 PM.
• Floats and vehicles must arrive earlier, between 8:30 AM and 11:00 AM, to avoid vehicle movement while walkers are assembling.
• Expect a waiting time of 60–90 minutes before starting the parade route. Use this time to interact with other participants and allies.

 

Participant Requirements

• Substance Use: Participants must not be intoxicated or under the influence of illegal drugs.
• Glass Prohibition: Glass bottles or drinking glasses are not allowed for safety reasons. Use reusable, non-glass containers.
• Attire: Participants are encouraged to express themselves through attire, but clothing must meet the legal minimum standard (equivalent to swimwear).
• Conduct: Offensive materials or dress are prohibited. If unsure, avoid bringing items that could cause offence.
• Parade Flow: Keep pace with the parade and avoid stopping for photos or performances.
• Single-Use Plastics: Avoid single-use plastics. Drinking water will be provided in the form-up area; bring refillable bottles to collect water.

 

Limitations on Activities in the Parade

• Donations and Sales: Soliciting donations or collecting money is not permitted.
• Prohibited Items: Smoke machines, flares, fireworks, and pyrotechnics are strictly prohibited.
• Merchandise Distribution: Requires prior written approval from parade@prideinlondon.org.
• Music: Music may only be played on the parade route, not in the form-up or dispersal areas.

 

Float and Inflatable Design Briefings

Float and inflatable design briefings will provide:

• Guidance on float and inflatable requirements and critical submission deadlines.
• Tips from suppliers on sustainable and practical designs.
• Opportunities for Q&A sessions to address concerns.

Details and links to online sessions will be provided to groups planning to bring floats or inflatables.

 

Parade Briefings

• All float and inflatable group leaders must attend a parade briefing to receive essential information and meet document submission deadlines.
• Briefings last approximately two hours and will be held online or in central London.

 

Roadworthiness

• Vehicles must be roadworthy with a valid MOT certificate, insurance, and road tax.
• If your vehicle is not road-legal, apply for a Vehicle Special Order and notify Pride in London at parade@prideinlondon.org.

 

Parade Design Approval

• Float designs must be submitted for approval by 5:00 PM on 5 May 2025.
• Failure to submit a design on time may result in the float being excluded from the parade, with no refund issued. Walkers from your group can still participate.

 

Design Elements

• Decorations must be securely fixed to prevent movement during the parade.
• Electrical items must pass portable appliance testing.
• Generators: Petrol generators are not allowed; use battery-powered or diesel alternatives if necessary.
• Safety Rails: Floats carrying people must have solid handrails at waist height with a lower rail to prevent slipping under.
• The lower half of all vehicle wheels must remain exposed for safety visibility.

 

Vehicle Size

Maximum dimensions for vehicles:

• Length: 10 metres
• Width: 2.5 metres
• Height: 4.5 metres

 

Driver, Co-Drivers, and Wheel Stewards

• Drivers: Submit full details (name, licence number, address, and mobile number) by 2 June 2025.
• Co-Drivers: All vehicles must have a co-driver to remain with the vehicle if the driver steps away.
• Wheel Stewards: Vehicles must have 6–8 wheel stewards to guide and ensure safety. High-visibility t-shirts will be provided.

 

Environmental Considerations

• Ethically source materials and avoid single-use plastics.
• Recycle and reuse as much of the float dressing as possible after the event.

 

Parade Socials

Pride in London will organise social events to connect group leaders and the parade team.

 

We look forward to seeing you in the parade and at the briefings!

 

Essential Information for Group Leaders

• Parade Briefings: These sessions are invaluable for both new and returning groups, offering essential information and the opportunity to meet other participants and the parade team face-to-face.
• Detailed Guidance: The briefings provide comprehensive details on what to expect on the day and outline important deadlines for submitting required documents. Attendance is mandatory for new group leaders or groups participating for the first time. Please ensure you sign in to confirm your attendance.
• Timing and Format: Briefings last approximately two hours and are held either in central London or online.
• Float and Inflatable Briefings: Scheduled between January and April 2025.
• Parade Briefings: Held between April and May 2025.
• Q&A Sessions:
  • From January 2025 to February 2025, Q&A sessions will run to assist with the application process.
  • Once applications are approved, monthly Q&A sessions will be available. You can drop in at any time during these sessions to ask questions.

 

We’ll provide multiple opportunities to attend these sessions, and you’ll receive ample notice of the dates.

 

For any questions, feel free to contact us at parade@prideinlondon.org.

Q: Is there an entry fee for the parade?

A: All groups except LGBT+ community walking groups must pay a registration fee.  All company groups looking to take part in the parade must be members of Pride in the City.  

 

Q: Is there a limit to the number of wristbands allocated to each group?

A: Yes, a limited number of wristbands are allocated to each group.  This is to allow for safe management of the high number of groups and participants in the parade. 

 

Q: Is there a minimum age to participate?

A: We welcome all to celebrate Pride but strongly encourage persons under the age of 18 to be accompanied by a responsible adult at all times.

Children under 16 years old must be accompanied at all times by an adult responsible for their safety and welfare for the duration of their time at Pride in London.

 

Q: Are children within groups required to wear wristbands?

A: Yes, children participating with a group must wear a wristband, except babies who are unable to walk and will be carried throughout the parade.

 

 Q: Is nudity allowed in the parade?

A: Nudity is not allowed in the parade; the minimum dress code is swimwear or similar. 

 

 Q: Can I bring my doggie along in the parade?

A: We welcome service dogs & support animals. Other animals and pets are not permitted in the parade.

 

Q: I want to add more than two people to receive updates. How do I do this? 

A: Unfortunately, we cannot add more than two people to applications.  

 

Q: I want to change contact details. How can I do so? 

The contact details for the secondary contact can be amended by you.

If you are looking to amend your primary contact please contact parade@prideinlondon.org, from the primary contact email account if possible,and the team will arrange this.  

 

Q: What do I do If I forget my password to the parade application platform?

A: Select 'forgot password', and you'll quickly get an email for a reset.

Only the primary contact email can be used to view the dashboard.  If you require this to be amended, please contact parade@prideinlondon.org from the Primary contact email account  The primary contact email is the one you used when you created the account.  If this is no longer the correct email address please contact parade@prideinlondon.org.

 

Q: Is there security along the parade route?

A: Pride in London provides parade stewards along the entire route in addition to having SIA-registered security stewards.  Metropolitan Police provide an operational presence throughout the day. 

 

Q: What is a parade briefing?

A: A parade briefing allows new and returning groups to learn more about what to expect on the day, meet other parade groups and ask specific questions that may help your group's planning.  

There are different types of parade briefings / Q&A we are providing this year: 

• Pre-Application Q&A - a b chance to ask questions.  We will be there for a couple of hours if you have any questions and want to pop into the chat to ask a question. 
• Float Design Briefings - if you are looking to have a float or inflatable, we will be providing guidance. 
• Parade Briefings - the parade briefings are there to provide invaluable information, and the in-person briefings allow you to meet other groups and the parade team face-to-face.
• Q&A - each month once applications are approved we will be providing a Q&A session for a couple of hours.  If you have a question you can drop in to speak to us.

Otherwise, email us at parade@prideinlondon.org

 Further details are shown in the Groups Without Floats and Groups with Floats sections.

 

Q: Can we have smoke bombs on our floats?

A: Smoke bombs or flares are prohibited on your float or in the parade.

 

Q: Can we give out branded stickers along the route?

A: Stickers are not allowed to be given out along the parade route due to the impact that has on the cleansing. You may have to pay an extra amount if Pride in London incur cleaning charges.

 

Q: Is there an alternative to having a motorised float?

A: Yes, you can consider the option of having an inflatable balloon or large puppet, or Tuk Tuks, or Rickshaws

 

Q: Are there any changing facilities or lockers in the form-up area of the parade?

A: There are no changing facilities or lockers at the parade's start.  If you are wearing a costume, please come dressed or alternatively use nearby hotel facilities to change.

 

 

Float Safety & Design Guidance

To ensure the safety and enjoyment of all participants and spectators, all floats must adhere to the following safety and design requirements.

 

Float Preparation and Inspection

• All floats must be ready for a safety inspection prior to the parade departure time. Floats failing inspection or arriving late will not be permitted to join the procession.
• Motorised Vehicles: Must be road legal, insured, and have a current MOT or equivalent documentation if applicable.
• Visibility: Vehicle lights and indicators must not be obstructed by decorations.
• Generators:
• Only diesel generators are allowed. They must be securely fastened to the float, earthed, and RCD protected.
• Privately hired generators must have a valid electrical safety certificate, available for inspection during the safety check.
• Electrical Equipment:
• All electrical devices must have valid safety certification and pass an inspection.
• Prohibited Items:
• No naked flames are permitted on the float.
• Decor:
  • All items must be securely fixed to prevent slipping, movement, or falling.
  • Materials should be fire-proofed or have appropriate fire certification.
• Fire Safety: Each float must carry CO2 or powder fire extinguishers.

 

Vehicle Safety Guidelines

To ensure the safety of everyone, all participating vehicles must meet the following criteria:

• Be in good working order and roadworthy.
• Have a valid vehicle excise license (tax).
• Tyres must be in good condition.
• All lights and turning indicators must be operational.
• Be fully insured with evidence available upon request.

 

Driver Responsibilities

Drivers must:

• Be appropriately insured.
• Drive slowly and avoid sudden starts or stops.
• Remain with the vehicle at all times, including when stationary.
• Display the provided front windscreen signs with group and driver details and the float’s parade order number.
• Follow all instructions from event staff.
• Drivers must not consume alcohol before or during the parade.

 

Float Riders’ Responsibilities

Riders must:

• Be aged 12 or older. Those under 16 must be accompanied by an adult responsible for their safety.
• Stay in a safe position, ideally seated for stability. Standing riders must use handrails or secure harnesses.
• Stand in the middle of the float and avoid the edges to prevent falls.
• Dress appropriately for the weather and bring sufficient refreshments for the parade duration.
• Not distribute gifts or advertising from the float, as this poses safety risks to the crowd.
• Not consume alcohol before or during the parade.
• Comply with noise level regulations for music played on floats.

 

Decor Guidelines

Decorations must:

• Be securely fixed to the float to withstand movement and weather conditions.
• Be fireproofed using appropriate treatments (e.g., fire-proofing liquids like Flambar).
• Be at least 1 metre off the ground.
• Fit within the maximum size restrictions:
  • Length: 10 metres
  • Width: 2.5 metres
  • Height: 4.5 metres

 

Electrical Safety

• Electrical Appliances:
  • Must be tested and carry proof of testing for inspection.
• Power Sources:
  • Petrol generators are prohibited unless integral to the vehicle.
  • Diesel generators or battery-powered systems are preferred due to safety and environmental considerations.
• Safety Features:
  • All power sources must be securely fastened to prevent movement.
  • Electrical systems must be properly earthed to prevent shock hazards, especially in wet weather.
  • Wires and appliances must be RCD protected to ensure electrical safety.

 

Safety Inspection

• All floats will undergo a thorough safety inspection before being permitted to participate.
• Inspections will be conducted by Event Safety Advisors, who will check compliance with the guidelines outlined above.
• Floats that fail to meet safety standards or cannot be altered on-site will not be allowed to join the parade.

 

By following these guidelines, we can ensure a safe, enjoyable, and memorable Pride parade for everyone involved. Thank you for your cooperation!

 

There will be a safety inspection of your float before it is allowed to participate in the procession. Event Safety Advisors will be looking for all the points made here in this guide. If the float does not meet the required safety standards or cannot be altered on site to meet the required safety standards, then it will not be able to join the parade.