Vancouver is gearing up for some of its most anticipated and vibrant events of the year during Pride Week!
From July 26th to August 4th, downtown Vancouver will be bursting with colour, music, and celebrations as we honour and uplift our LGBTQ+ community.
Here’s your comprehensive guide to making the most of this incredible week in the heart of downtown!
Pride Opening Party
Kick off Pride week with the Pride Opening Ceremony happening on July 26th, at the Davie Street Lounge (1207 Bute Street), and prepare for an evening filled with stunning performances by dazzling drag artists, remarks from the local community, and meaningful interactions celebrating the unique contributions of Indigiqueer and 2Spirit peoples!
Fitness is Such a DRAG: Pride Fundraiser
Celebrate Vancouver Pride with a fitness fundraiser featuring performances by Canada’s Drag Race stars Kendall Gender with Tiffany Ann Co., Bibi SouPhresh, and Hazel, featuring dancers from Quill Collective! Take a few beginner-friendly cardio sessions, all proceeds go to charity!
Summer Movie Nights – Mamma Mia!
On Thursday, August 1st, come out Summer Movie Nights at šxʷƛ̓ənəq Xwtl’e7énḵ Square (Vancouver Art Gallery North Plaza) for a Pride Night celebration presented by Public Disco. This night will feature all-ages disco tunes spun by a variety of local DJ’s, lots of dancing, an ABBA-themed drag show and ends with a showing of Mamma Mia!
Queer Rights Summit
Vancouver Pride is making history with its first-ever Queer Rights Summit, tackling the pressing issues facing the queer community both in Canada and around the world, by bringing together influential voices from the community to share their knowledge and provide a platform for meaningful discussions and advocacy! It takes place at the Sheraton Vancouver Wall Centre at 1000 Burrard Street, between August 1st and 3rd.
Trans Pride March
On August 2nd, the Trans Pride March, dedicated to celebrating and advocating for the rights of trans and non-binary individuals will be taking place. This march is a chance to show solidarity, raise awareness, and honour the trans community’s contributions and struggles. Gathering at 5:30 pm at Clark Park, the march will begin at 6 pm towards Victoria Park, where performances, food, vaccines, and a raffle will be taking place!
VanPrideFest
The highly awaited VanPrideFest will finally be happening on August 3rd and 4th at Concord Pacific Place, from noon to 7 pm, and you can expect non-stop entertainment and fun on both days! The first day of the festival will feature top-tier drag talents and the second day will spotlight amazing musical talents on the main stage. This festival is a hub of inclusivity and creativity, making it a fantastic spot to spend the weekend!
Pride Parade
One of the highlights of Vancouver Pride Week, the Pride Parade happening at Davie and Denman, culminating at Concord Pacific, is a must-see event. With vibrant floats, performers, and community groups marching through the heart of Vancouver, the parade is a spectacular display of unity and celebration. This year it’s taking place on August 4th from 12 pm to 4 pm, so make sure to grab a spot along the parade route early to enjoy the festivities and vibrant energy!
Bubly Davie Street Lounge
Vancouver Pride will be taking over Davie Street between July 26th to August 5th to create the Bubbly Davie Street Lounge as a space to celebrate 2SLGBTQAI+ communities and host events like burlesque performances, a pop disco, a French drag picnic, and so much more!
Granville Island Lounge
A series of events and activities will also be taking place at Granville Island Lounge, located at 1531 Johnston Street, featuring stand-up comedy, wine tasting, an Indigenous potlatch and art activities from August 1st to 4th! Make sure to check out their program for each day to not miss out on the activity of your wish, and secure a ticket.
Pride Closing Party: “Last Dance”
Lastly, wrap up Pride Week with a bang at the Pride Closing Party on August 4th! Held at Granville Island Lounge, this event promises a night of music performances, drag shows, DJ sets, and celebratory vibes. It’s the perfect way to close out an unforgettable week of Pride festivities. The doors will be opening at 8 pm, and the show will begin at 9 pm.
Vancouver Pride Week is set to be an incredible celebration of diversity, inclusion, and community. Whether you’re marching in the parade, enjoying the live music, or dancing at the parties, there’s something for everyone. Let’s come together to celebrate love, pride, and our vibrant LGBTQ+ community!
