One of Norwich’s most colourful and anticipated celebrations of LGBTQ+ culture is set to return this summer as Pride Ball marks its fifth anniversary at Norwich Arts Centre.
Taking place on Friday 26 June 2026, the milestone event promises an evening packed with drag performances, glamour, laughter and community spirit, bringing together some of the region’s most celebrated performers alongside a very special guest from RuPaul’s Drag Race UK.
Hosted by Norwich drag royalty Liv, the annual Pride Ball has become a much-loved fixture in the city’s cultural calendar. Since launching in 2021, the event has grown into one of Norwich’s standout Pride celebrations, providing a platform for drag artists while creating a welcoming and inclusive space for audiences from across Norfolk and beyond.
This year’s event holds particular significance as it celebrates five years of Pride Ball at Norwich Arts Centre. During that time, Liv has introduced more than 150 drag artists to the venue’s stage and entertained thousands of audience members, helping to create a vibrant community built around self-expression, creativity and acceptance.
For many attendees, Pride Ball is more than just a night of entertainment. It is an opportunity to celebrate individuality, connect with others and experience the unique sense of joy and belonging that has become synonymous with the event.
The evening will take place at Norwich Arts Centre, one of the city’s most respected independent venues. Located on St Benedict’s Street, the former church has earned a reputation for hosting an eclectic programme of music, comedy, theatre and performance, making it the perfect setting for an event that embraces creativity in all its forms.
Leading the celebrations will be Liv, whose charismatic stage presence and passion for Norwich’s drag scene have helped Pride Ball flourish over the past five years. Known for creating unforgettable evenings filled with humour, energy and heart, Liv has become one of the city’s most recognisable performers and a driving force behind the event’s continued success.
Joining Liv on stage will be an impressive line-up of local drag talent, including performers connected to the Norwich Drag Pageant and some of the region’s most exciting rising stars. Audiences can expect a dazzling showcase of drag artistry, from high-energy lip-sync performances and comedy routines to breathtaking costumes and unforgettable stage moments.
Adding even more excitement to the evening is the appearance of NYONGBELLA from RuPaul’s Drag Race UK Series 7. The special guest appearance is expected to be one of the highlights of the night and offers Norwich audiences the chance to see one of the franchise’s most talked-about performers live on stage.
One of the event’s most popular features will also be making a return. The Pride Ball runway will once again be open to everyone.
Queens, Kings, Divas and Creatures are all invited to take their moment in the spotlight and showcase their creativity in front of the audience. Whether arriving in full drag, an elaborate costume or simply an outfit that makes a statement, participants will have the opportunity to celebrate self-expression in its many forms.
The runway has become a cherished part of the event over the years, allowing audience members to become part of the spectacle rather than simply watching from the sidelines. Special prizes will be awarded to those who impress the judges with their looks, including the coveted Spirit of The Pride Ball trophy.
The inclusive nature of the runway reflects the wider ethos of the event itself. Pride Ball has always championed creativity, authenticity and community, welcoming people from all backgrounds to come together and celebrate what makes them unique.
Doors will open at 7pm ahead of the main show, which begins at 8pm and runs until approximately 10.30pm. The runway segment is expected to take place at around 9.30pm, providing one of the evening’s most anticipated moments.
Tickets start from £10 for supporters, making the event an accessible and affordable night out while helping to support the work of Norwich Arts Centre and the local creative community.
As Pride celebrations continue to evolve across the country, events like Pride Ball play an important role in fostering visibility, representation and connection. They provide opportunities for performers to showcase their talents while offering audiences a safe and welcoming environment in which to celebrate diversity.
Five years after its debut, Pride Ball has firmly established itself as one of Norwich’s most joyful and uplifting annual events. Combining world-class drag entertainment with grassroots community spirit, it continues to embody everything that makes Pride such an important and meaningful celebration.
For anyone looking to experience an unforgettable evening of glamour, laughter and queer joy, Pride Ball 2026 promises to be one of the standout events of Norwich’s summer calendar.
Pride Ball takes place at Norwich Arts Centre on Friday 26 June 2026. Doors open at 7pm, with the show beginning at 8pm.
Location: Norwich Arts Centre, St Benedict’s Street
Website: https://norwichartscentre.co.uk/event/liv-presents-the-pride-ball-2026-5th-anniversary/