Let your rainbow-coloured flags fly as the Victoria Pride Festival kicks off in fabulous style! Eleven days and nights of events begin with the youth kick-off party on June 29 and end with the Victoria Pride Parade, followed by the Festival in the Park, on July 9. In between, there are parties, bingo, brunches, a run, a sail past and much more.
Pride is exuberant and inclusive fun, of course, but it’s also about respecting the dignity and human rights of 2SLGBTQ+ people here and around the world. And with those rights under fire in so many places, it’s perhaps never been more important to support this event than right now. For more information, visit victoriapridesociety.org.
Victoria Pride Festival Highlights, June 29 to July 9
Youth Pride Kick-Off Party
June 29, 6 to 9 p.m.
Victoria Odd Fellows
A night of dancing, music, local performance and art opportunities for ages 15 to 21. Free.
Memorial Drag Ball Game
July 1, noon to 3 p.m.
Victoria West Park off Wilson Street
This multi-generational picnic in the park features local performers as well as food and drinks from Eves’ of Destruction Roller Derby. Hosted by the fabulous J Bird and Shelita Cox. Free.
Queer Activism Night
July 5, 6 to 9 p.m.
The Victoria Pride Society Youth Council invites everyone to a night full of intersectional 2SLGBTQ+ activism, featuring local speakers on everything from self-empowerment to social justice issues. Dinner will be provided. Free.
Big Gay Dog Walk
July 6, 4:30 to 8:00 p.m.
Clover Point
This event includes a trick and costume competition with fabulous prizes to be won. And, of course, adorable dogs. Free.
Pride in the Word
July 8, 8 to 11 p.m.
Victoria Conference Centre, Lecture Theatre
Canada’s largest Pride literary event features writers Tash McAdam, Adèle Barclay, Tony Correia and more. Cost: $25.
Victoria Pride Parade
July 9, 11 a.m. onward
Starting at Douglas and Fisgard Streets
Join the 40,000-plus spectators as the Songhees Nation and Indigenous and Two-Spirit Guests of Honour lead this bright and colourful parade, featuring as many as 120 entries, on a new route down Douglas Street before turning right onto Humboldt Street, left on Government Street and right onto Belleville Street. Free.
Pride Festival in the Park
July 9, following the parade
MacDonald Park
After the parade, join thousands for this family-friendly festive atmosphere with over 150 vendors, 20+ food options, cold beverages, a kids zone and a main stage! Free, but organizers suggest participants donate $5 or more to keep Pride accessible.