A borough-wide Pride celebration will return this autumn following a successful debut last year.
Merton Pride will take place on September 5, across Morden Hall Park and Merton Abbey Mills, promising a bigger event for 2026.
Organised by LGBTQ+ community group Merton Plus, the event aims to build on the success of last year’s Pride, which saw more than 1,000 people attend.
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Oli Kraft, chair of Merton Plus and partnership lead, said: "what started as an event has grown into a civic movement of organisations who join forces to promote inclusion and solidarity year-round in our borough".
The day will kick off at 10am with a Pride Fair at Morden Hall Park, featuring health advice, face painting, dance sessions, and a chance to learn runway walking with New Wimbledon Theatre.
At 2pm, the Pride March will follow the River Wandle to Merton Abbey Mills, where Pride Fest will continue into the evening with music and performances. RuPaul’s Drag Race star Kate Butch will headline the Pride Show and take part in a meet-and-greet with fans.
Merton Pride is supported by more than 50 volunteers, sponsors, and partners.
Jeff Tong, deputy director of community engagement and outreach at Pride in London, said: "Pride in London is incredibly proud to support Merton Pride through our Unity Fund."
Francis Burrows, executive director of customer and operational services at Wandle, said: "I’m delighted that Wandle will be attending Merton Pride 2026 as a proud sponsor, celebrating inclusion, diversity, and the LGBTQ+ community."
Sue Buckland, head of marketing and events at Merton Abbey Mills, said: "We’re proud to support and host Merton Pride and the positive message it brings to our borough."
Abi Mcneil, general manager at Morden Hall Park, said the event brings people together through "community, inclusion and connection."
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