While many Pride celebrations and events in other cities take place during the month of June, Calgary’s Pride Week typically takes place at the end of August and beginning of September. Because of this, Calgarians get to experience an extended summer of Pride, and better weather for the official festivities (yes, that’s why Calgary changed the date). Calgary Pride events have been taking place all week, but there are still many ways to celebrate and support the 2SLGBTQIA+ community at upcoming events this weekend.
The Cabaret Company Events at Dickens
When: August 30 and 31
If the rainbow mural at the entrance didn’t clue you in, know that Dickens is one of Calgary’s hottest spots for queer celebration. The bar hosts inclusive events every month and lights up for all of Pride Week with gay burlesque, drag shows, and more put together by The Cabaret Company. Plan your week with the events calendar at dickensyyc.com and thecabaretcompany.com.
Dickens, 1000 9 Ave. S.W., 403-233-7550, dickensyyc.com; thecabaretcompany.com
WERK Events
When: August 30 and 31
WERK is hosting several events over Pride weekend. On August 30 at Palace Theatre, catch one of the biggest parties of Pride with internationally acclaimed DJs at NSFW – Worship. On August 31, head to National on 8th for a rooftop drag brunch hosted by Kendall Gender or attend an evening drag show at The Palace Theatre that night. Sweet Loretta Bar is also hosting the Eternity After Party on August 31, another night of music, dancing and celebration.
Multiple locations, @werkyyc
Pride Brunch
When: August 31
Empower Calgary’s queer youth community at the Centre for Sexuality’s annual Pride Brunch. This breakfast event raises funds for Camp fYrefly, a summer camp for 2SLGBTQIA+ youth in Southern Alberta. The event features a buffet and drag entertainment.
Hyatt Regency Calgary, 700 Centre St. S., centreforsexuality.ca
Pride Slam
When: August 31
The Calgary Apollo Softball Association is an independent community-driven softball league for 2SLGBTQIA+ individuals. Over Pride weekend, it hosts a one-day tournament full of baseball and fun events aimed to bring together Calgary’s queer athletic community. If you want to play, check the website for registration information.
Deerfoot Athletic Park, casaleague.ca
Calgary Pride Parade & Festival
When: Festival on August 31 and September 1; Parade on September 1
You didn’t think we would forget to list the Pride Parade, did you? This year’s Pride Festival takes place in Prince’s Island Park on August 31 and September 1. You can also catch the parade on Sunday, September 1, which kicks off at 9th Avenue S.E. and 6th Street S.E. Grab a spot along the route and join thousands in celebrating the beauty, diversity and resilience of the 2SLGBTQIA+ community in Calgary.
Festival at Prince’s Island Park; Parade starts at 9th Avenue S.E. and 6th Street S.E., calgarypride.ca
Electric Pride Party & Drag Show
When: September 1
The Electric Stage Series drag collective is taking over the historic Back Alley Nightclub to end Pride weekend on a high note. This free event features drag performances, DJs spinning all the hits, a 50/50 raffle, door prizes and more. Reserve your free tickets online.
The Back Alley Night Club, 4630 Macleod Tr., eventbrite.ca
INGLEPRIDE: Pride Patio Party
When: September 1
Situated right in the heart of Calgary’s music mile, The Attic is a hub of queer music, comedy and entertainment events. Join the bar this year for its second annual INGLEPRIDE party, which promises bouncy beats, delectable treats, tasty cocktails and diverse live entertainment.
The Attic Bar & Stage, 1413 9 Ave. S.E., 403-475-4741, theatticyyc.ca; eventbrite.ca
Love is Love Mile
When: September 1
Run Calgary and Calgary Pride have teamed up to deliver a fun way to experience the Pride Parade route. Registrants will complete a one-mile race through the downtown route before the parade actually starts, and then can walk with the Run Calgary float in the parade afterwards. You can also complete the race virtually any time between September 1 to 8.