The Blacktober Fest returns this autumn as the centerpiece of UK Black Pride’s calendar, offering a joyous space where Black queer culture can shine beyond the confines of Black History Month. Set against the vivid backdrop of The Colour Factory in London, the festival promises an immersive night that celebrates resilience, creativity and collective wellbeing.
When and where the celebration unfolds
Mark your calendar for Friday 16 October 2026. Doors swing open at 6 pm at the main space of The Colour Factory, located at 8 Queen’s Yard, London E9 5EN. The venue will remain active until the early hours, with the final DJ set concluding at 3 am. Attendees are asked to bring identification, as the venue enforces a no-ID-free entry policy.
Program and performances
The evening’s schedule is designed for constant energy. Stalls showcasing Black-led businesses and community organisations operate from 6 pm to 9 pm giving visitors a chance to discover and support independent creativity. Live performances kick off at 7:30 pm and run until 10 pmfeaturing an as-yet-unannounced line-up of Black queer musicians, dancers and spoken-word artists. After the curtain falls, DJs take the floor from 10 pm to 3 am keeping the dance floor alive well into the morning. All live acts will be accompanied by a BSL interpreter to ensure accessibility.
Host and artistic line-up
The night will be steered by host Thanyia Moore whose charismatic presence promises to amplify the festival’s spirit. While the exact roster of performers and DJs remains to be announced, the event is already billed as a showcase of the finest Black queer talent across music, performance and visual arts.
Why this year matters
Earlier in the year, UK Black Pride announced a strategic pause of its flagship Pride parade, opting for a period of rest, reflection and rebuilding. Lady Phyll CEO and co-founder, explained that the decision was “intentional” and that “a pause was never an absence.” Blacktober Fest therefore serves as a tangible reminder that Black queer joy and resistance do not wait for a calendar slot; they are lived every day. “Black History Month gives us an important moment to honour and reflect on our histories, but our Blackness does not begin in October and it does not disappear when October ends,” she affirmed.
Community focus and accessibility
Beyond the performances, the festival emphasizes inclusivity. The venue offers wheelchair-friendly access, accessible toilets, a designated quiet space and step-free entry. In addition to the BSL interpreter, signage and staff assistance are on hand to make the event welcoming for neurodivergent and hearing-impaired guests. Independent stallholders and community groups will be present, providing avenues for attendees to purchase art, literature and services that are directly driven by Black queer creators.
Sponsors and ticketing
The event is supported by Bleecker and Gilead Sciences. Bleecker, a queer-owned food brand celebrated as National Burger of the Year in, will help cultivate conversational spaces over its menu. Gilead contributes by fostering discussions around Black health and wellness. Tickets are on sale now, and early purchase is encouraged given the limited capacity of The Colour Factory.
