When we think of Pride, there is more than just rainbow flags, glitter and colourful fashion that comes to mind. Pride is a time of celebration, solidarity, remembrance, inclusion and activism. It is a chance to not only dance into the early hours of the morning, but also to work towards making each year more inclusive and intersectional for all. Halifax has a huge lineup of events for their 10-day celebration this year, so it can be hard to choose which ones to hit up. That’s why we did the work for you and rounded-up the best Pride events in Halifax for a non-stop week-and-a-half. To continue the celebrations across the country, click here to check out our list of the best Pride events from Vancouver to St. John’s.
When: 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
