The annual Pride London Festival begins in two weeks and, with 10 days of celebrations and a slew of events, make sure to plan ahead so you don’t miss out on what’s new and different this year.
The annual Pride London Festival begins in two weeks and, with 10 days of celebrations and a slew of events, make sure to plan ahead so you don’t miss out on what’s new and different this year.
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It’s the 21st edition of the most colourful event of the year, and it kicks off July 11 with Pride London’s award show and wraps up with the Pride Parade on Sunday, July 21, at Victoria Park.
The weather is promising to be scorching hot, so make sure to stay cool. Wear comfortable clothes and bring bottles of water for yourself, water guns – please squirt only those who ask – and, of course, rainbow flags.
When it comes to safety and concerns about targeted hate action during the events, festival officials say they’ll keep a close eye on the crowd, and security and London police will be present throughout the celebrations.
Here are some of the highlights, but be sure to check Pride London’s website for all their events.
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Thursday, July 11
The Pride London award show recognises individuals and businesses committed to improving London’s LGBT-plus community through partnerships and other initiatives that promote inclusive education and positive social change. Awards will also be given to the best community advocates, drag queens, and performers.
Friday, July 12
The London Majors play in a special Rainbow-studded uniform against the Guelph Royals. Naomi Nadea, leader of the Rainbow Party of Canada, will throw the first pitch.
Saturday, July 13
A Pride run begins at 7 am for the early birds, setting off from Springbank Gardens. Late, a Pride beer launch happens at the London Brewing Co-Op at 6 pm, followed by a Pride 55-plus dance at the London Corps Association at 1051 Dundas St. at 7 pm
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Sunday, July 14
A market at Aeolian Hall presented by London’s trans community offers performances by the community and allies.
Talking about staying cool, a Pride swim happens at the YMCA Centre branch at 1 p.m. for queer youth looking to meet other like-minded people in the community.
Tuesday July 16
Palasad Social Bowl has their bowling alleys ready for Pride family night at 7 pm
Thursday, July 18
The after-party happens at the Tap Centre for Creativity with the 33rd annual Pride art show from 6 pm to 9 pm, where more than 45 artists will exhibit work in a variety of media, including drawing, photography, digital art, painting, textiles, and sculptures.
Friday July 19
For the first time at Pride London, a trans community march takes place in Victoria Park starting at 5:20 pm, so wave your transgender flag and bring as many friends and allies as possible to make sure the first edition is a hit.
Saturday, July 20
Another new event, the rainbow workout at Forest City Crossfit, begins at 10 a.m., a bootcamp that promises to warm up the crowd for Sunday’s big parade.
Sunday, July 21
More than 100 floats, vendors, and performers – such as aerial and ground-based dancers – will be at this year’s London Pride parade. Participants meet at noon. on Quebec Street, between Dufferin Street and Dundas Street and head to Victoria Park.
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