Summer Pride Events in Western Canada

Throughout the summer months, visitors to Western Canada have the inspiring opportunity to take part in some of the most iconic LGBTQ+ events and pride parades in the country. For guests staying in our mountain locations, or for those in the area looking to celebrate diversity and inclusivity with thousands of others, pride festivals are family-friendly […]

Throughout the summer months, visitors to Western Canada have the inspiring opportunity to take part in some of the most iconic LGBTQ+ events and pride parades in the country. For guests staying in our mountain locations, or for those in the area looking to celebrate diversity and inclusivity with thousands of others, pride festivals are family-friendly events that build unity within the community.
This summer, come embrace your individuality, show your support and celebrate with the local community during your next stay in these Western Canadian destinations.
 

Victoria Pride | Victoria, BC | July 1st – July 9th

 

Victoria sure knows how to celebrate #victoriapride #love #parade

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Victoria Pride Festival is a family inclusive event hosted by the Victoria Pride Society during the first few weeks of summer. This year, official Pride events take place July 1st to July 9th, and include a multitude of celebrations that are bound to appeal to everyone. These include the Annual Memorial Dragball Game, the Big Gay Dog Walk, a boat cruise, and the Pride Parade – showcasing over 100 groups and floats – on the last day of the festival.
 

Safe ‘n Sound Alphabet Soup | Whistler, BC | July 12th – August 30th


If you weren’t in town for Whistler Pride and Ski Festival in January or can’t make Vancouver’s renowned Pride Week in early August, you still have options! For guests spending their summer vacation enjoying the mountains in Squamish or Whistler, Safe n’ Sound Squamish has organized Alphabet Soup, a weekly event that runs every Wednesday night for 8 weeks at the Whistler Public Library. Friends, families and individuals are welcome to gather in this safe space for fun-filled community activities.
 

Okanagan Pride | Kelowna, BC | August 8th – 15th

 

Highlights from #prideunleashed #okanaganpride #kelowna #lgbtq #transpride

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This year, Okanagan Pride has reached a milestone ten year anniversary. In celebration, the 2017 theme “Shine Bright” reflects BC’s jewel town as well as its LGBTQ+ community. Organized by the non-profit Okanagan Pride Society, the week-long festival lineup includes a launch party, golf tournament, annual drag competition, trans march event, parade and wrap up party.
 

Kootenay Pride Festival | Nelson, BC | August 28th – 30th


The Kootenay Pride Festival is held annually in the city of Nelson, BC, located in the Selkirk Mountains, on Labour Day weekend in September. Run for over two decades, the festival celebrates unity and diversity and is a way for the community to engage with each other and spread the love across the Kootenays. Events include a potluck picnic, late night dancing, drag shows, a parade, film nights, and more.
 

Calgary Pride | Calgary, AB | August 25th – September 4th

 

#YYCPride is packed!!! Calgary #YYC, you are awesome!

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Although most Pride events in Alberta take place in the first half of the year, one of the largest LGBTQ+ events is saved for the summer. For guests exploring the mountains of Banff and Jasper, they may want to consider a stopover in nearby Calgary. This year, the Calgary Pride Parade and festival will take place in the city’s Prince’s Island Park from August 25th to September 4th. Alberta’s famous cosmopolitan city will be celebrating dawn till dusk with events featuring the Pride Parade itself, a drag cabaret, community-led hikes and country line dancing. Pride in the Park, one of the city’s largest free cultural events, allows families to enjoy live music, refreshing drinks, and mingle with other residents and visitors.