Pride celebrations are popping up all over Canada this summer, and no matter where you are across the country, you can get in on all of the rainbow-filled festivs. Depending on where you live, Pride is a week- to month-long celebration jam-packed with dancing, marches, parades and more. We’ve rounded up the best Pride events from coast to coast, so whether you’re a part of the LGBTQ community or an ally, come as you are and spread the love.
Pride Events in Winnipeg
May 25–June 3
Pride Parade
The low-down: Gather with your fellow LGBTQ community, allies and advocates to march through the ‘Peg’s downtown for the pinnacle pride event of the whole week. The Grand Marshal will be Brielle Beardy-Linklater, a Two-Spirit, queer, trans activist from Nisichaweyasihk Cree Nation.
When: June 3 at 11 a.m.
Fees: Free
Find it: Starts at Memorial Blvd. and York Ave., then continues along York Ave. and turns right at Fort St. and ends at Assiniboine Ave., pridewinnipeg.com
Pride Roller Derby Double Header
The low-down: For the sixth year in a row, this charitable roller derby event will showcase two exhilarating games: Rainbows vs. Unicorns for the rookie rollers and the RuPaulverizers vs. the Ellen DeGenerates for the more advanced skaters. Bonus: a portion of the proceeds will go towards making roller derby more accessible for the LGBTQ community.
When: May 25 from 6 p.m. to 9:30 p.m.
Fees: $10 per person
Find it: Fort Garry Curling Club, 696 Archibald St., winnipegrollerderby.com
QPOC Talk: Mental Health Matters
The low-down: Welcome to all queer/trans Black, Indigenous and POC, this important discussion regarding mental health struggles and the intersections of race and gender is a must-attend during Pride week.
When: May 27 from 11 a.m. to 2 p.m.
Fees: Free
Find it: The Revolution Wellness Centre, 433 Graham Ave., pridewinnipeg.com
Pride Winnipeg Festival at The Forks
The low-down: From a killer mainstage musical line-up hosted by drag queen Marti Cummings to a Queer Beer Beverage Tent for a cold summer brew and Pridemart, which features 30+ organizations selling LGBTQ-centred product and services, this bustling two-day event has everything you would want in an outdoor Pride festival.
When: June 2–3 from 12 p.m. to 7 p.m.
Fees: Free
Find it: 1 Forks Market Rd., pridewinnipeg.com
Two Spirit Pow Wow
The low-down: While you’re at the Festival at the Forks, you have to check out the second annual pow wow, which celebrates the resilience of Two Spirit people. This year’s theme is “when we dance our memories are awakened,” which promotes healing and a sense of moving forward for not only Two Spirit folks but Indigenous communities as a whole.
When: June 2 from 1:30 p.m. to 8 p.m.
Fees: Free
Find it: 1 Forks Market Rd., The Forks, pridewinnipeg.com
Trans March
The low-down: It’s all about trans visibility at this year’s exciting, inclusive march. Walk down Broadway towards the Festival at the Forks (which will be featuring a line-up of local trans musicians) with your fellow trans community, allies and activists as you show the city that trans lives matter.
When: June 2 from 2 p.m. to 4 p.m.
Fees: Free
Find it: Manitoba Legislature, 450 Broadway, pridewinnipeg.com
Pride Events in Toronto
June 1–24 (month), June 22–24 (official Pride weekend)
Trans March in Toronto (Photo: Courtesy Toronto Pride)
Pride Parade
The low-down: Toronto’s Pride Parade is one of the largest in North America with over 150 people participating. There will be floats, performers and, of course, colourful, festive fashion.
When: June 25 at 2 p.m.
Fees: Free
Find it: Starts at Bloor St. E. and Church St., goes down Yonge St. and ends at Gerrard St. E. and Church St., pridetoronto.com
Viva Cabaret – Tribute to the Greatest Divas
The low-down: Female impersonator Yury Ruzhyev will be performing a one-man show paying tribute to the most iconic divas in entertainment history. From Lady Gaga to Liza Minnelli and Whitney Houston, you will be mesmerized by his 40 costume changes and spot-on impressions of over 30 divas, all while dancing and lip-syncing to your fave anthems.
When: June 7 and June 29 from 8 p.m. to 11:30 p.m.
Fees: $20 per person
Find it: Rivoli, 334 Queen St. W, eventbrite.com
Get Real’s Pride Week Boat Cruise
The low-down: Set sail on the waterfront for good eats, tons of dancing, plus a drag show and silent auction—all the proceeds of the event are going towards the Get Real programs, which support LGBTQ youth.
When: June 21 from 7 p.m. to 10 p.m.
Fees: Starting at $60 per person
Find it: 539 Queens Quay W, thegetrealmovement.com
Trans March
The low-down: This solidarity march is dedicated to celebrating and spreading awareness about the diverse and intersectional trans community—family, friends and allies are welcome, too.
When: June 22 at 7 p.m. (rally) and 8 p.m. (march)
Fees: Free
Find it: Kicking off at Church and Hayden St., pridetoronto.com
Business Woman’s Special: Pride Edition
The low-down: Coined by the organization as a queer dance party, this Business Woman’s Special celebration is Pride-themed with performances from the city’s most famous drag queens.
When: June 23 at 10 p.m.
Fees: $15 per person at the door
Find it: Round Venue, 152a Augusta Ave., Toronto, roundvenue.com
Pride and Remembrance Run
The low-down: Walk 3 km or run 5 km at this colourful race in support of Toronto’s LGBTQ organizations—don’t forget to break out your brightest athletic wear.
When: June 23 at 10 a.m.
Fees: $45 to $50 per person to register
Find it: Church St. and Wellesley St., priderun.org
Pride Events in Edmonton
June 8–17
Pride Parade
The low-down: Between the seemingly endless sea of floats, dancers and LGBTQ folks decked out in the most colourful garb and the infectious spirit of Pride, this family-friendly event is a don’t miss. Trust, it’s one of our fave events of the week.
When: June 9 from 11 a.m. to 1 p.m.
Fees: Free
Find it: Starting at Whyte Avenue and 108 St., then travels along 104 St. to 86 Ave., edmontonpride.ca
Dancing with Pride
The low-down: We are *living* for this super cute Pride-themed swing dance party! The night starts off with a 45-minute lesson in the upbeat dance genre, then follows up with two hours of dancing. It’s the perfect way to get to know people and let loose (*jazz hands*).
When: June 6 from 7 p.m. to 11 p.m.
Fees: $10 per person in advance, $15 per person at the door
Find it: The Aviary, 9314 111 Ave. NW, edmontonpride.ca
Pride in the Park Festival
The low-down: Drop everything on the Saturday of Pride Week and spend the day with friends and family in Strathcona Park soaking in live music, noshing on drool-worthy eats from the city’s hottest food trucks and checking out the diverse roster of LGBTQ vendors dotted around the venue.
When: June 9 from 11 a.m. to 6 p.m.
Fees: Free for admission
Find it: Strathcona Park, edmontonpride.ca
Pride Beverage Garden
The low-down: As part of the Pride in the Park festivities, you can take a break from dancing, watching the epic performances and perusing the exhibitors at the Beverage Garden to sip on some ice cold bevvies (sangria, anyone?) with you and your crew all. day. long.
When: June 9 from 11 a.m. to 10 p.m.
Fees: $10 per person
Find it: Strathcona Park, edmontonpride.ca
Taste of Kink
The low-down: If you’re over 18 and are v. curious about exploring the world of kink, this open house is perf for you. There will be a quick orientation to introduce you to the basics of kink and the importance of consent, then you’re free to roam, play and explore. Bonus: kink experts are there to answer your questions and show you beginner moves!
When: June 15 from 6:30 p.m. to 11:30 p.m.
Fees: $25 per person
Find it: ASPECC, 12031 76 St. NW, edmontonpride.ca
Pride Events in Saskatoon
June 10–24
Saskatoon Pride Parade (Photo: Courtesy Lasia Kretzel)
Pride Parade
The low-down: When it comes to Pride Parade fashion, more is more. Break out your brightest colours, sparkliest body paint and rainbow accessories for the annual parade and join the rest of the city to celebrate the LGBTQ community.
When: June 23 from 1 p.m. to 2 p.m.
Fees: Free
Find it: Starts at Spadina Cres. E. and 24th St. (under the University Bridge) and ends at 4th Ave. S. and 21st St., saskatoonpride.ca
Art in the Park
The low-down: Spend an afternoon celebrating culture and community, where people from all walks of life can come together to enjoy amazing art, music, collaborative art-making, food and kid-friendly events.
When: June 10 from 12 p.m. to 5 p.m.
Fees: Free
Find it: Ashworth Holmes Park on Ave E North & 31st St. West, caswellartsfestival.com
Live in Colour Fashion Show
The low-down: This year’s show features amazing local designers and artists. Break out your finest fashions to enjoy a *glamorous* evening of fashion, art and live entertainment (including an acrobatic performance!) Hosted by drag performer RITA BAGA, this night is sure to be nothing short of fabulous!
When: June 15 from 6 p.m. t0 12 a.m.
Fees: $20 per person for regular tickets in advance, $40 per person for VIP tickets in advance, $25 per person for regular tickets at the door, $50 per person for VIP tickets at the door
Find it: Hilton Garden Inn, saskatoonpride.ca
Drag Queen Bingo
The low-down: Add a little sex appeal to your scorecard at this bingo fundraiser for a night full of entertainment and a chance to win some amazing prizes!
When: June 20 from 7 p.m. to 11:55 p.m.
Fees: Admission is by donation; bingo cards start at $2 per person
Find it: Capitol Music Club, saskatoonpride.ca
Gurls! Ladies’ Night
The low-down: Time to start polishing off your dance moves! For those who are looking to spend a Friday night dancing in a chic lounge with a rainbow of cocktails in hand, this event will be at the top of your Pride Week bucket list.
When: June 23 to 24 from 9 p.m. to 2 a.m.
Fees: $20 per person in advance, $25 per person at the door
Find it: Drift Sidewalk Café & Vista Lounge, 339 Ave. A South, saskatoonpride.ca
Detox Pool Party
The low-down: Spend the last few hours of Pride Week the best way we all know how: lounging by the pool on an Insta-worthy floatie with a fruity bevvie. Wind down after a week chock-full of celebrating and spreading the LGBTQ love.
When: June 24 from 12 p.m. to 5 p.m.
Fees: Free
Find it: Hilton Garden Inn, saskatoonpride.ca
Pride Events in Whitehorse
June 22–24
Pride Parade
The low-down: If you’re going to go to one event this Pride Week, make sure it’s the parade. The whole Whitehorse community will be out to celebrate the LGBTQ community for this fun-and-rainbow-filled festivity.
When: June 23 at 1 p.m.
Fees: Free
Find it: Starts at Main St. and 6th Ave, continues to the White Pass building, then goes along Front St. to Shipyard Park, @QueerYukon
Rights Night
The low-down: In partnership with the Yukon Human Rights Commission, this eclectic event includes a screening of 1992 CBC documentary “Gay in the North,” plus a discussion about LGBTQ Indigenous communities living up North. Then, there will be a poster-making session in preparation for the highly anticipated Pride Parade.
When: June 22 at 7 p.m.
Fees: Free
Find it: Old Fire Hall, 1105 Front St., @QueerYukon
Pride Picnic
The low-down: Let’s be real: after all of the dancing, yelling and marching at the epic Pride Parade, you’re going to be starving. Thank goodness Queer Yukon came through with a BBQ picnic in Shipyards Park to refuel with some delish eats before you hit up the next Pride activity.
When: June 23 at 2 p.m.
Fees: Free for admission
Find it: Shipyards Park, 100 Ogilvie St., @QueerYukon
Pride Dance
The low-down: Hit the dance floor at the always-bumping Jarvis Street Salon for an endless night of dancing, drinks and a live performance from local band Soul Migration. (They play killer funk, rock, mowtown and reggae jams.)
When: June 23 at 8 p.m.
Fees: $10 per person
Find it: Jarvis Street Saloon, 206 Jarvis St., @QueerYukon
Pride Paddle
The low-down: If you’re more of an adventurous spirit or simply want to try your hand at an aquatic activity, join the local community for a paddle along the Yukon River and soak in the sights of nature’s beauty. Just try not to tip the canoe or kayak.
When: June 24 at 12 p.m.
Fees: Free for admission, $15 for the shuttle to the river (cash only)
Find it: Rotary Park (2nd Ave.) to the Takhini River Bridge, @QueerYukon
Pride Events in St. John’s
July 15–21
St. John’s Pride Parade (Photo: Courtesy Genevieve Brouillette)
Pride Parade
The low-down: Don’t forget to mark this empowering and inclusive event in your Pride Week calendar! The whole community comes out to kick off Pride week with a two-hour parade through the streets of downtown St. John’s.
When: July 15 at 3 p.m.
Fees: Free
Find it: Starts at City Hall (10 New Gower St.), goes down Duckworth St., turns left on Ordnance St. and ends at Bannerman Park (Military Rd.), stjohnspride.ca
Pride at the Park
The low-down: After the Pride Parade, head down to the park for refreshments, vendors and live music from YUNG DUMB.
When: July 15 at 4 p.m.
Fees: Free
Find it: Bannerman Park, stjohnspride.ca
RuPaul’s Drag Race Trivia
The low-down: If you’re a fan of RuPaul’s Drag Race, it’s time to break out the flash cards—because this trivia night is sure to put your knowledge to the test!
When: July 17 from 7 p.m. to 9 p.m.
Fees: $5
Find it: Mochanopoly Board Game Café, 204 Water St., stjohnspride.ca
Pride at the Garden
The low-down: Spend a beautiful summer night in the garden learning all about plants and wildlife—plus, roll up your sleeves to plant your own rainbow flowers.
When: July 19 from 6 p.m. to 8 p.m.
Fees: Free
Find it: MUN Botanical Garden, 306 Mount Scio Rd., stjohnspride.ca
Pride Pole-Jam
The low-down: If you’ve *always* wanted to try pole dancing, now is the time! Slip on some yoga pants and swing by for these drop-in pole dancing lessons.
When: July 20 from 6 p.m. to 8 p.m.
Fees: Free
Find it: Vertical Xpression, 154 Water St., stjohnspride.ca
Pride AnnualBonfire
The low-down: Brush up on your campfire songs and break open the marshmallows for this bonfire event to celebrate the end of Pride week.
When: July 21
Fees: Free
Find it: Bus pickup from Avalon Mall and MUN, stjohnspride.ca
Pride Events in Halifax
July 19–29
Halifax Pride Parade (Photo: Courtesy Halifax Pride)
Pride Parade
The low-down: This year the parade is focusing on supporting the LGBTQ community and sharing everything Pride stands for: pride, inclusion, respect and diversity. There will also be a plethora of rainbow flags, music and glitter, as per usual.
When: June 21 at 1 p.m.
Fees: Free
Find it: Starts at Upper Water and wraps up at the Garrison Grounds on Bell Rd., halifaxpride.com
The Bump
The low-down: If dancing under the stars is your jam, then you have to hit up this outdoor drag dance party.
When: July 20 at 9 p.m. to July 21 at 2 a.m.
Fees: $5
Find it: Garrison Grounds, 5425 Sackville St., halifaxpride.com
Candlelit Vigil
The low-down: Remember those who have sacrificed their lives for the LGBTQ community at this powerful and solemn candlelit vigil.
When: July 23 from 8:30 p.m. to 9:30 p.m.
Fees: Free
Find it: Halifax Central Library, 5440 Spring Garden Rd., halifaxpride.com
Queer Perspectives: Coming Out as Trans in School
The low-down: This panel discusses the issues faced by trans individuals when they come out in the Nova Scotia school system and how staff can better support LGBTQ youth.
When: July 23 from 12 p.m. to 1 p.m.
Fees: Free
Find it: Halifax Central Library, 5440 Spring Garden Rd., halifaxpride.com
Gottingen Block Party
The low-down: The entire street of Gottingen is taken over by LGBTQ vendors, food trucks, a BBQ joint, DJs, art and more.
When: July 28 from 5 p.m. to 11:59 p.m.
Fees: Free
Find it: Gottingen St., halifaxpride.com
Dykes vs. Divas Softball Game
The low-down: You’ve never seen softball like this—watch as a team of drag queens and lesbians go head to head during this annual sporting event, then celebrate with the winners after the game.
When: July 29 from 2 p.m. to 4 p.m.
Fees: Free
Find it: Halifax Commons, Canada Games Baseball Diamond, 5816 Cogswell St., halifaxpride.com
Pride Events in Charlottetown
July 22–28
PEI Pride Parade (Photo: Courtesy Dane Cutcliffe)
Pride Parade
The low-down: This year’s parade is said to be the biggest yet. People from all over the Island come to the capital city to experience the colourful march through the heart of downtown.
When: July 28 at 1 p.m.
Fees: Free
Find it: Starts at the Shaw Building and can viewed beginning from Terry Fox Drive, continuing on to Euston Street, Great George Street, Grafton Street and finishes at Rochford Square on Rockford St., pridepei.com
Pride in the Park
The low-down: After the parade finishes, the celebrations continue at Rochford Square for an all-ages party.
When: July 28th, time TBD
Fees: Free
Find it: Rochford Square, pridepei.com
OUTspoken Poetry Slam
The low-down: Experience slam poetry from the local LGBTQ community as members share their stories through this creative medium. Hosted by PEERS Alliance, these spoken word performances are a must-see.
When: July 26th from 7 p.m. to 9 p.m.
Fees: Free
Find it: Confederation Centre Public Library, pridepei.com
White Party
The low-down: Party into the a.m. at this unique Maritime location—and don’t forget to break out your cutest all-white outfit. This year’s event will feature RuPaul’s Drag Race Glamour Toad Ginger Minj!
When: July 28th from 10:45 p.m. to 2 a.m. (meet and greet starts at 9 p.m.)
Fees: $31 for general admission, $61 for meet and greet
Find it: The Delta Prince Edward Ballroom, 18 Queen St., pridepei.com
Pride Beach Day
The low-down: The Island is known for its breathtaking beaches, so it is quite fitting to have a Pride-themed celebration by the beach. Spend the afternoon enjoying the summer sun at this seaside family-friendly event.
When: July 14th from 1 p.m. to 6 p.m.
Fees: Free
Find it: Penderosa Beach, 330 Penderosa Rd., pridepei.com
Pride Events in Vancouver
July 27–August 5
Vancouver Pride Parade (Photo: instagram/letmebefrankwithyou92)
Pride Parade
The low-down: With over 650,000 people in attendance, Vancouver’s 40th annual Pride Parade is the highlight of the city’s Pride Week. Filled with breathtaking costumes, inspiring signs and an endless amount of floats, it is a must-see—don’t forget to bring your rainbow flags.
When: August 5 at 12 p.m.
Fees: Free
Find it: Starts on Robson St., turns down Denman St. and ends at Beach Ave. (across from Sunset Beach Park), vancouverpride.ca
Pride at the Pier
The low-down: Soak in the city’s view of the waterfront while you dance along to local LGBTQ DJs and watch spectacular drag queen performances at this all-ages, alcohol-free event. If you don’t drink or want to bring your whole family along for the fun, this event is perfect for you.
When: July 31 from 5 p.m. to 10 p.m.
Fees: Free
Find it: Shipbuilders’ Square at The Shipyards, vancouverpride.ca
Terry Wallace Memorial Breakfast
The low-down: Come and celebrate one of the founders of Vancouver Pride over pancakes and other breakfast goodies.
When: August 4 at 8 a.m.
Fees: By donation
Find it: Jim Deva Plaza, 1200 Bute St., vancouverpride.ca
Sunset Beach Festival
The low-down:
Party by the sea with over 150,000 people—there is no shortage of dancing, live music, cute vendors and killer ocean views.
When: August 5 at 11 a.m.
Fees:
Free
Find it: Sunset Beach Park, 1204 Beach Ave, vancouverpride.ca
Hotline: Pride Sunday Afterhours
The low-down: Celebrate the end of Pride into the early hours of the morning at this super low-key event featuring a line-up of all female and LGBTQ DJs, like Kim Anh, Colby B and Kasey Riot.
When: August 5 at 11 p.m.
Fees: $25 per person
Find it: Open Studios, 252 E 1st Ave. #200, vancouverpride.ca
Pride Events in Yellowknife
TBD
Northwest Territories Pride Festivities in Yellowknife (Photo: Courtesy NWT Pride)
Cupcakes at the Post Office
The low-down: Start off the Pride celebrations with something sweet—stop by the Post Office and help yourself to a rainbow cupcake made from scratch by local bakery, Mad Hatter.
When: August 17 from 11:30 a.m. to 1 p.m.
Fees: Free
Find it: 4902 Franklin Ave., @nwtpride
Somba K’e Festival
The low-down: Bring your fam to this all-ages event where you can munch on some BBQ and learn more about the LGBTQ community with their diverse workshops.
When: August 18 from 11 a.m. to 3 p.m.
Fees: Free
Find it: 4807 52 St., Somba K’e Park, @nwtpride
Queer and Trans Celebration at the Legion
The low-down: Check out this jam-packed event for food, good music and prizes where you can celebrate all night long with your queer and trans brothers and sisters.
When: August 18 from 7 p.m. to 1 a.m.
Fees: Free
Find it: 4511 Franklin Ave., @nwtpride
Pride Events in Montreal
August 9–19
Mega T-Dance in Montreal (Photo: Courtesy Carl Éthier)
Pride Parade
The low-down: Come and check out the city’s largest parade celebrating the diverse local LGBTQ community. There will even be awards given out for the best floats, best costume and makeup, best choreography and more.
When: August 19 from 1 p.m. to 4 p.m.
Fees: Free
Find it: Starts at Metcalfe St., travels down René-Lévesque Blvd. and ends on Alexandre-DeSève St. in the Gay Village, fiertemontrealpride.com
Drag Superstars 3
The low-down: Calling all Rupaul’s Drag Race fans! Spend a night transfixed by season six winner Bianca Del Rio and a number of other drag queens from past seasons as they put on the most jaw-dropping, OTT show (in the best way possible).
When: August 16 from 8 p.m. to 11 p.m.
Fees: Free
Find it: Parc des Faubourgs, fiertemontrealpride.com
Pride Day at LaRonde
The low-down: Montreal’s amusement park is getting a Pride makeover—the park will be decorated in a sea of rainbow colours for anyone wanting to get their hearts racing on the Goliath, the biggest rollercoaster in Canada. Plus, drag queens Miss Butterfly, Tracy Trash and Franky Dee will be there to greet you as you enter the park.
When: August 17 from 11 a.m. to 9 p.m.
Fees: $78 at the park, $50 advanced
Find it: 22 Chemin MacDonald, fiertemontrealpride.com
Community Day
The low-down: Check out the rows of kiosks on Sainte-Catherine E. to learn more about the organizations, groups and businesses (and the diverse people that run them) that make up Montreal’s LGBTQ community. There will also be an Open Air Book Fair with authors from the community to showcase their work.
When: August 18 from 11 a.m. to 5 p.m.
Fees: Free
Find it: Sainte-Catherine St. E., fiertemontrealpride.com
Amour is Love Conference with Fariha Róisín
The low-down: This don’t-miss panel discussion, led by Collective Culture’s Néné Myriam Konaté, focuses on the LGBTQ community and representation for Black, Indigenous and other People of Colour. This year, Canadian-born, Brooklyn-based writer Fariha Róisín will talk about her self-acceptance as a queer Muslim woman.
When: August 18 from 5 p.m. to 8 p.m.
Fees: Pay as you can
Find it: Mainline Gallery, 3905 St Laurent Blvd., fiertemontrealpride.com
Mega T-Dance
The low-down: Aside from the rainbow flag, there is nothing more iconic at Pride than dancing. Celebrate the end of Pride Week by letting loose to House and EDM by some of the hottest DJs (like DJ Suri, Morabito and Hex Hector).
When: August 19 from 3 p.m. to 10:50 p.m.
Fees: Free
Find it: Parc des Faubourgs, TD Stage, fiertemontrealpride.com
Pride Events in Moncton
August 18–25
Park Celebrations in Moncton (Photo: Courtesty André Richard)
Pride Parade
The low-down: Deck yourself head-to-toe in your best rainbow attire for the region’s most diverse and glowing day. End Moncton Pride Week on a colourful note by marching through downtown in this accessible and family-friendly event!
When: August 25 from 1:30 p.m. to 2:15 p.m.
Fees: Free
Find it: The parade will kick off Downtown Moncton Centre-ville, @monctonsriverofpride
River of Pride Boat Cruise
The low-down: If outdoor adventures are your thing, hop on a boat cruise along Shediac Bay. With beats from DJ Impulse and scenic views along the water, you’re guaranteed to have a good time!
When: August 18 from 7 p.m. to 9:30 p.m.
Fees: $28 for cruise only, $35 for the cruise and shuttle service
Find it: Pointe-du-Chêne Wharf, with shuttle pick up at Aberdeen Cultural Centre, 140 Botsford St. @monctonsriverofpride
Dinner with Pride
The low-down: Indulge in a gourmet dinner that is made with fresh, local ingredients—the menu includes an assortment of sushi, seafood, and a complementary glass of sparkling wine.
When: August 19 from 6 p.m. to 8:30 p.m.
Fees: $40
Find it: Dolma Food, 251 St George St. (2nd Floor), @monctonsriverofpride
Drag Bingo Extravaganza
The low-down: This year’s Bingo extravaganza is hosted by none other than Miz Cracker from RuPaul’s Drag Race season 10. Wear your brightest neon accessories and be sure to brush up on your skills for an audience lip sync battle. Plus, keep your Bingo bracelets on for free admission to Triangles Night Club to continue the festivities after the show!
When: August 24 from 8 p.m. to 11 p.m., meet and greet starts at 6:30 p.m.
Fees: $30 for general admission, $50 for VIP meet and greet with Miz Cracker
Find it: Moncton Lions Club, 55 Mark Avenue, @monctonsriverofpride
Pride Concert
The low-down: After a non-stop week, have one last hurrah on the dance floor under the neon lights with a bevvie in hand. Enjoy an outdoor show showcasing queer talent with the rest of the local LGBTQ community because Pride never truly stops. Stick around after the concert for a drag show and after party!
When: August 25 from 7:30 p.m. to 11 p.m.
Fees: Free
Find it: Riverfront Park, then head to the Triangles Night Club for the after party, @monctonsriverofpride
Pride Events in Ottawa
August 20–26
Capital Pride Parade in Ottawa (Photo: Courtesy Ben Welland)
Pride Parade
The low-down: Pride in the nation’s capital is unlike any other event. Each year, the parade keeps getting bigger and more colourful, so paint yourself in rainbow body paint, make a colourful sign and hit the streets of downtown Ottawa for the celebration of the year.
When: August 26
Fees: Free
Find it: Starts at Gladstone and Bank St., goes down Kent St. and ends at Bank and Somerset St., ottawacapitalpride.ca
Human Rights Vigil
The low-down: Fighting for equality is never an easy feat—reflect with the LGBTQ community about the struggles and injustices faced on a daily basis.
When: August 21 from 8 p.m. to 9:30 p.m.
Fees: Free
Find it: Canadian Tribute to Human Rights, 220 Elgin St., ottawacapitalpride.ca
TD Block Party
The low-down: Would it truly be Pride if there wasn’t a dance party thrown into the mix? Bring your crew to this bumping outdoor party where you can meet new people, drink the night away and dance along to the live performances.
When: August 22 from 6 p.m. to 9 p.m.
Fees: Free
Find it: Aberdeen Square, Lansdowne Park, ottawacapitalpride.ca
Capital Pride Pageant
The low-down: Mark your calendars for Ottawa’s annual drag pageant to witness the crowning of Mr., Mrs. and Mx. Capital Pride—the popular karaoke drag queen China Doll is one of the judges.
When: August 23 from 8 p.m. to 10 p.m.
Fees: $20 to $70 per person
Find it: Delta City Centre Hotel, 101 Lyon St. N, ottawacapitalpride.ca
Bank Street Fair
The low-down:
Take a stroll down Bank St. once the parade finishes and learn more about the local organizations and businesses that support Ottawa’s LGBTQ community. Plus, pop into one of the bars or restos for a mid-day refuel.
When: August 26 from 12 p.m. to 8 p.m.
Fees:
Free
Find it: Bank St. (between Somerset St. and Florence St.), ottawacapitalpride.ca
Pride Events in Calgary
August 24–September 3
Calgary Pride Parade (Photo: Courtesy Calgary Pride)
Pride Parade
The low-down: The diversity of this family-friendly parade is worth noting—a variety of organizations, politicians, churches and even furry friends all come out to celebrate the LGBTQ community in the parade.
When: September 2 from 11 a.m. to 1 p.m.
Fees: Free
Find it: Starts at 3 St. SE and 6 Ave. and ends at Prince’s Island Park, calgarypride.ca
Queer Country Line Dancing
The low-down: Grab your cowboy boots and your best “yeehaw” for this Pride-themed beginners line dance workshop that will have you dancing all night long.
When: August 28 from 7 p.m. to 8:30 p.m.
Fees: Free for admission
Find it: 1000 9 Ave. SW, Dickens Pub, calgarypride.ca
Pride Block Party
The low-down: Spend an evening at this arts and culture hub, enjoying music from Neighbour and Girls on Deck’s DJ Molly Fi and being mesmerized by The Diva Drag Show, Alive Danceworks, the Fake Mustache Drag King Troupe and Safire Hoop Dance.
When: August 28 from 6 p.m. to 10 p.m.
Fees: Free for admission
Find it: 1020 2 Ave NW, Containr Site in Sunnyside, calgarypride.ca
Naked Girls Reading Presents: Pride!
The low-down: This empowering event is all about body positivity and celebrating LGBTQ+ authors, readers and literary works in a safe and inclusive space.
When: August 30 from 8 p.m. to 10 p.m.
Fees: $15 in advance, $20 at the door
Find it: 1006 11 Ave. SW, Twisted Element, calgarypride.ca
Pride in the Park
The low-down: Continue the parade celebration into the afternoon at Prince’s Island Park, where live music, booze and gorgeous summer weather await.
When: September 2 from 11 a.m. to 6 p.m.
Fees: Free
Find it: Prince’s Island Park, 698 Eau Claire Ave. SW
Related:
14 LGBTQ TV Shows & Movies to Binge on Netflix During Pride Month
Super Cute Pride Merch that Gives Back to the LGBTQ Community
Yes, I’m “Still” Bisexual and BTW, I Always Will Be
What It Means to Be Non-Binary
Glitter Helps Me Feel Like My Most Authentic Self
“Makeup Makes Me Think of Freedom”—6 Trans Women On Their Beauty Routines
“My Breasts Left Me Anxious and Embarrassed”: Chest Binding and How to Do It Safely
