There’s no better place to celebrate who you are and who you love than at Pride.
Toronto has a jam-packed schedule of Pride events that will keep you busy all weekend long. Whether you’re looking to dance the night away, be entertained, or celebrate Pride with your kids, there’s something here for everyone.
READ: Everything You Need To Know Ahead Of The 2019 Toronto Pride Parade
Take a look below at 10 of the biggest Toronto Pride events happening in the city this weekend. You won’t want to miss out on this stellar lineup!
1. Night at the Aqueerium
Where: Ripley's Aquarium of Canada — 288 Bremner Blvd.When: Friday from 8 p.m. to 12 a.m.Cost: $50
Literally surround yourself with all the colours of the rainbow at Ripley’s Aquarium to kick off your Toronto Pride weekend! The fourth annual event will feature a live performance by the Spice Queens, beats by DJ Cozmic Cat & Lucie Tic, as well as plenty of one-of-a-kind photo ops! The event is 19+.
2. Moonshine Party with Nakhane
Where: TD Main Stage — 1 Dundas St. E.When: Friday from 7 p.m. to 11 p.m.Cost: Free!
This opening night Pride party promises to be “lit.” Get ready to dance to global sounds and music, including Afro-futuristic beats and electro-funk. Queer South African musician Nakhane will headline the event and is expected to take the stage at 9 p.m.
3. Street Fair
Where: The Village — Church, Wellesley, and Alexander streets; Carlton to Dundas St.When: Friday from 7 p.m. to 2 a.m., Saturday from 12 p.m. to 2 a.m., and Sunday from 12 p.m. to 11 p.m.Cost: Free!
Head over to The Village to shop local goods from LGBTQ2+ artisans and organizations. Featured items include jewelry, clothes, toys and food. The marketplace is a lively spot, so be ready to meet new friends and learn more about the neighbourhood. And don’t forget to check out the Wellness Zone (south of Carlton St.) to discover community based health and wellness organizations.
4. Yes Yes Y’all Pride Block Party
Where: Bud Light Wellesley Stage — 15 Wellesley E.When: Friday from 7 p.m. to 2 a.m.Cost: Free!
This party is known as one of the most inclusive at Pride! Yes Yes Y’All aims to connect communities through music and dance. At this event, DJ Blackcat, Block Party and special guest Venus X will be spinning hip-hop, R&B, dancehall and soca.
5. Family Pride
Where: Church Street Public School — 83 Alexander St.When: Saturday and Sunday from 10 a.m. to 4 p.m.Cost: Free!
Encourage your kids to express themselves and celebrate their uniqueness at Family Pride. Now in its 19th year, the annual event is packed with engaging activities including face painting, sports, story time, and an extra-special performance. There will also be spaces and activities specifically geared towards tweens and teens so they don’t miss out on the fun!
6. Harbour Comedy Cruise
Where: 333 Lake Shore Blvd. E.When: Saturday and Sunday from 7 p.m. to 9 p.m.Cost: $30 or $25 in advance
This unique event takes you aboard a pirate ship to see Toronto at sunset. Not only will you be able to take in the scenic views, but you’ll be entertained by LGBTQ+ comedians in celebration of Pride! Stand-up comic Chanty Marostica will headline on Saturday, while Kyle Brownrigg will be there on Sunday.
7. Drag Ball
Where: Yonge-Dundas Square — 1 Dundas St. E.When: Saturday from 6 p.m. to 11 p.m.Cost: Free!
Celebrate queer talent at Pride Toronto’s Drag Ball. Toronto’s very own Brooke Lynn Hytes (who you may recognize from the latest season of “RuPaul’s Drag Race”) will headline the event. Local star Tynomi Banks will also take the stage, as will the top three Queens from “Drag Race Thailand.”
8. Zero Gravity Circus
Where: Church St.When: Friday to SundayCost: Free!
All weekend long, the public will be treated to acrobatic acts along Church St. by Zero Gravity Circus. The local group is diverse and inclusive and has been part of the community for over 20 years! You and your kids will be amazed at the flips, tricks, and body-bending shows they have in store during Pride’s street party.
9. Alterna Queer
Where: Fido South Stage — Church St. and Gould St.When: Saturday from 4 p.m. to 2 a.m.Cost: Free!
The West End queer scene heads to the downtown core for a night of outstanding entertainment. This includes performances by House of Filth and The Diet Ghosts. The show also celebrates diversity and will feature Montreal hip-hop duo Hua Li and trans Iranian rapper Säye Skye. Get ready to laugh, sing and dance all night long.
10. Pride Parade
Where: Church and Bloor streetsWhen: Sunday at 2 p.m.Cost: Free!
Of course, no Pride Month celebration would be complete without the annual Pride Parade. Dress in your brightest colours, grab your kids and head down to Church and Bloor, where the parade will kick off. You can expect great music and plenty of rainbows throughout the procession.
This isn’t the only parade happening this weekend. The Trans March is on Friday and the Dyke March is on Saturday. Get more details here.
