I previously wrote an article about the importance of Pride; why now, more than ever, we need to get out there and show it.
Many people think that Pride is just about the loud gay village parties, with scantily clad men making out on floats as they parade down Yonge Street, but it’s about so much more than that! You will be amazed at what you find… from arts and crafts to vigils and film screenings.
So to help you out with some of the best Pride events, I’ve compiled a list of some of the fabulous things that you can do this Pride:
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Transformation: Indigenous & Borderless Sounds
June 22
Head to Yonge-Dundas Square for an evening of outdoor arts featuring installation, performance and visual artists. There will be notable performances by Revolutions per Minute, an Indigenous global music platform, label and artist collection; SEVDALIZA, an Iranian-born, Rotterdam-based vocalist; Filipino folk dance by Phèdre x HATAW; two-spirited rebel soul Shawnee Music and more. See the full line-up here.
That’s So Gay: Uprising
June 22
Syrus Marcus Ware has curated a series of work for the Gladstone Hotel’s 8th annual TSG event. This is a group show of new works look at uprisings by Queer artists. This is a nice reminder, that we are still rising up… And if you don’t have a chance to make the opening reception on June 22, you can catch the exhibit until August 17.
FNL: Colour ROM Proud
June 23
Some amazing DJ’s, artists and Drag Queens have taken over the ROM for a special edition of this monthly event. Tickets are $17 for adults or $15.50 for seniors and students. Get yours here.
Trans March
June 23
Stepping off at Church St. and Hayden St., trans and non-binary folks, friends and allies will gather to march in solidarity. The rally starts at 6:30pm and the march begins at 7pm. Afterward, before or during, visit the Trans Pride Community Fair which runs until 10pm in Allan Gardens for more mixing and mingling with others in the community.
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Homo Night in Canada
June 24
B-Girlz and Buddies in Bad Times Theatre bring you a night of comedy and entertainment that’s been going since 2000 with some of North America’s best gay and lesbian Comics. They do say “laughter is the best medicine”… so let’s get laughing.
Drag Ball
June 24
Love some drag? Check out a lineup like no other in Toronto performing at Yonge-Dundas Square, from some of Toronto’s Top Drag stars to some imported ones and a special performance by singer Kiiara. If this is your thing, sashay this way. The event starts at 2pm and runs ’til late.
Pride at Don Mills Library
June 24
Yes, you read that right. The Don Mills Library is hosting two family events for Pride meaning kids can get in on the celebration, too! First up is Family Story Time which will explore all kinds of families. Afterward, there’ll be a Vogue Dance Workshop where members of one of Toronto’s premier ballroom groups, the House of Constantine, will not only teach kids age 7-12 the basics of voguing and how to walk the runway, but help them create different ballroom looks, too. Registration is required, so act fast!
RESIST: Dyke March
June 24
The women and trans people of the dyke community will be taking over the streets of downtown Toronto, demonstrating power and strength in numbers. The celebration will focus on the community’s accomplishments and honour those who have been silenced or forgotten. Stepping off at 2pm from Church St. and Hayden St., the march will be followed by a rally in Allan Gardens featuring performances, crafting and community building.
Love on Top
June 24
Kick off your Saturday with an afternoon queer rooftop Pride kiki at Mascot Brewery’s rooftop patio. Presented by Yohomo, this dance party features 4 of the city’s finest DJs, kweens, boys and dolls, so round-up the gang and let them know their weekend plans. Tickets are $15 at the door or $12 online here.
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Born this Way
June 24
Get ready to get sweaty! Sneaky Dee’s is hosting a Madonna/Gaga dance party to celebrate Pride and last call is 4am… Enough said. Purchase advance tickets for $10 here.
So there you have it. Enjoy and celebrate!
RELATED LINK: The Top 5 Pride Festivals You Need to Visit in the World
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Did we miss any of the best events happening during Pride 2017? Share them with us in the comment section or tweet us at @ViewtheVibe.
