Ottawa Ready to Shine for Capital Pride

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Monday marks the kickoff of Capital Pride, Ottawa’s annual week-long festival celebrating the city’s LGBTQ+ communities, and there are tons of awesome activities and events planned! Whether you are looking for family-friendly activities, art, socializing or more, there is something for everyone. Here’s a list of just a few of the festival highlights you won’t want to miss over the next week!

Flag Raising Ceremony (Aug. 21st, 12 – 2 pm)

The festivities kick off with the official flag raising ceremony at Ottawa City Hall! Mayor Jim Watson, along with representatives of Capital Pride, will raise the rainbow flag at noon to officially proclaim Capital Pride week and then make sure to stick around for a free BBQ hosted by Emergency and Protective Services.

Village Legacy Project Launch and Exhibition (Aug. 21st – 27th, 12 – 8 pm daily)

To celebrate the launch of the Bank Street LGBTTQ+ Village mobile app and website, visual media such as photos, plaques and banners will be showcased along Bank Street. These pieces will celebrate and shine a light on Ottawa’s queer history and key figures. The exhibit is free to all and runs throughout the week from noon to 8pm daily.

LGBTQ Newcomers Gathering (Aug. 22nd, 4 – 5:30 pm)

Are you new to the Ottawa region, or to Canada in general, and looking to connect with fellow LGBTQ+ peers? Well look no further! The Centretown Community Health Centre is hosting a social gathering for LGBTQ+ people of all genders, ethnicities, religions and backgrounds to network and make friends. The gathering is free to attend and there will be food, art and a variety of activities, so you won’t want to miss it!

Family Picnic in the Park (Aug. 23rd, 4 – 7pm)

If you're looking for an activity for some family bonding time, check out the Family Picnic in the Park event taking place at Hintonburg Park on Wellington. Co-hosted by the University of Ottawa, this picnic strives to celebrate families of all kinds. Along with delicious food, the picnic will also feature tons of family-friendly activities such as games, face painting, storytelling and more. The picnic is free to attend, but space is limited so make sure to register here to reserve your spot.

Human Rights Vigil (Aug. 24th, 8 – 9:30 pm)

Though society’s views and understanding of LGBTQ+ people have come a long way, there is still much to be done in the fight for equality. If you are interested in discussing and reflection on these issues with others fighting for human rights, make sure to take part in the Human Rights Vigil taking place at the Canadian Tribute to Human Rights monument on Elgin Street Thursday night.

Pride Parade (Aug. 27th, 1:30 – 4 pm)

Last but not least, the week ends with a bang with the always exciting Capital Pride Parade! More than a hundred businesses and organizations take part in the parade, that starts at the corner of Gladstone and Bank and travels throughout the Village. There will be awesome music, dancing, costumes and much more so dress up in your most colourful clothing and accessories and show your pride!

For more info about Capital Pride and a full list of scheduled events, check out the official Ottawa Capital Pride website!