Victoria Pride returns this week with events happening across Greater Victoria

It’s finally time for Victoria Pride!

Pride is a time of year that so many people all over the world look forward to. It’s a moment to celebrate love in all its forms, and to show solidarity with the queer community.

In Victoria, our official Pride celebrations will be taking place from Wednesday, July 1st to Sunday, July 12th.

Victoria Pride has a deep and profound legacy, with Pride celebrations recorded in Victoria as far back as 1989, which were started by a group of lesbians in the city.

Celebrations continue to grow, with thousands showing their support at events all over the city.

This year, the Victoria Pride Society will be putting on several events across Greater Victoria, all starting with the legendary Memorial Drag Ball Game on Canada Day — Wednesday, July 1st.

The famous Drag Ball game features drag kings and queens, fitted in partly practical, partly fabulous gear and playing a rowdy game of baseball at Vic West Park.

There’s no emcee like a drag queen/king, and attendees can expect laughter and fun times for the whole family.

The second official event will be Pride in the Word, taking place at the Victoria Conference Centre on Saturday, July 4th.

Pride in the Word will feature queer literary readings from local writers and speakers who will present their own work.

Tickets for this show are on a pay-what-you-can model, and can be purchased here.

The Big Gay Dog Walk will follow as the next official event, taking place on Wednesday, July 8th.

It’s an event that’s gained traction over the years, and has become one of Victoria’s favourite Pride events.

Highlights include a dog costume contest, an impressive dog trick competition and a scenic group walk. Contest sign-ups will be at the event.

Attendees can enjoy a variety of fabulous pet vendors, grab a bite from local food trucks and a special memorial area—a peaceful space to honour and remember beloved pets who’ve crossed the rainbow bridge.

Organizers highly encourage biking or taking transit as parking will be limited.

Bringing home the festivities will be the Pride Parade and Festival in the Park, both taking place on Sunday, July 12th.

These events will be the grand finale of the celebrations. The Parade will begin on the corner of Johnson Street and Government Street and follow the same route as many of the parades that have already taken place this year.

Organizers expect more than 140 parade entries and close to 80,000 spectators, so get ready for a rowdy celebration!

It will end at Belleville Street, where attendees can continue on to the Festival in the Park in MacDonald Park.

The festival is expected to be a bit quieter than the parade, and will feature queer and ally vendors and be a place for attendees to meet and enjoy each other’s company.

For more information on all of these events, make sure to visit the Victoria Pride Society website here.

Love is love, Victoria! Make sure to get out and show your support for your queer neighbours and friends.