World Pride has hit Toronto!
Thinking of going to Pride? Here’s the BIST low-down on what’s happening at Pride, with a highlight on some events we think may be more ABI survivor friendly:
Clean and Sober Proud Place – Friday, Saturday and Sunday
WHAT IS IT: A space to hang out and catch performances by local community artists in a drug and alcohol free space.
- Paul Kane Parkette, 58 Wellelsey St. East (just east of Yonge St.)
- FREE + WHEELCHAIR ACCESSIBLE; VENUE WILL BE LOUD
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What it Means to Be Seen – Photo Exhibit – Friday, Saturday and Sunday
WHAT IS IT: A photo exhibit featuring LGBTQ communities from the 1960s to present. See how much things have changed and stayed the same.
- Ryerson Image Centre, 33 Gould St. (south of Gerrard, east of Yonge St.)
- FREE + WHEELCHAIR ACCESSIBLE; EVENT SHOULD BE QUIET
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Family Pride – Saturday and Sunday
WHAT IS IT: Just as it sounds – a family-centred Pride celebration! Set up in the Church Street Public School, Family Pride provides tons of free activities for kids, plus gives parents an opportunity to chill and relax in the quietest, and least crowded space on Church Street. BONUS: FREE DRINKS AND SNACKS AVAILABLE!
- Church St. Public School, 83 Alexander St. (1 block North of Carlton, just east of Church)
- FREE + WHEELCHAIR ACCESSIBLE; GENERALLY NOT TOO LOUD
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UFCW Canada Pride – Saturday, starts at 10 a.m.
WHAT IS IT: The United Food and Commercial Worker union (UFCW) is hosting a Pride celebration for its members, their friends, family and basically any community-oriented person who wants to indulge in the spirit of Pride. There will be refreshments, snacks, music, arts and cultural activities.
- Sheraton Centre Hotel, Civic Ballroom and Foyer, 123 Queen Street West (west of Bay St.)
- FREE + WHEELCHAIR ACCESSIBLE; EVENT LIKELY TO BE SOMEWHAT LOUD
- If you’re planning on going, you’re encouraged to sign up here
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Proud Voices – Saturday, Sunday, starts 11 a.m. – readings and performances throughout the day
WHAT IS IT: Listen to readings by some of Toronto’s best LGBTTQ writers. Saturday features readings by established Toronto women writers, and Sunday it’s the men’s turn.
- Glay Day Bookshop, 598 Yonge St. (just North of Wellesley)
- FREE; NOT WHEELCHAIR ACCESSIBLE
- ** FREE NIGHTTIME CABARETS SATURDAY + SUNDAY at 8 p.m.! **
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BIST TIP: Getting to Pride from east of Church St. is a lot easier than coming from the west end. But regardless of where you’re coming from – expect crowds. Don’t drive. If you can, walk bike or take the TTC!
- Avoid Wellesley Station and the surronding area. You will find taking a longer way around to where your going will take less time than managing your way through the crowds.
- There will be fewer crowds at: Sherbourne Station, Yonge / Bloor station, College Station or Dundas Station – again, it’s worth walk!
For more information: World Pride Toronto
