Together Again - Vancouver Pride Festival marks return of in-person programming

By Daniel Itai

The Vancouver Pride Society (VPS) has revealed that the 44th Vancouver Pride festival which is set to take place this July will most likely have regular in-person programming.

Since the start of the COVID-19 pandemic, the festival has had to be held virtually so as to mitigate the spread of the pandemic.

"Each year in Vancouver, the Pride Festival offers an opportunity for our community to come together in inclusivity and unity. For the past two Pride seasons, we have had to adapt the Festival in response to the COVID-19 pandemic, curating and delivering virtual and at-home programming. As public health restrictions lift here in British Columbia, a safe return of public events is highly-anticipated for the diverse 2SLGBTQAI+ communities we serve. Our theme this year aims to celebrate the beauty that comes in reuniting and uplifting these communities," said VPS Interim-Executive Director, Lee Keple.

In addition, Grant Minish, National Manager for 2SLGBTQAI+ Business Development at the TD Bank Group, said their relationship with VPS was a mutual reflection of pushing progress forward for the 2SLGBTQAI+ community in British Columbia and eagerly anticipated the return of in-person programming this summer.

"Our long-standing relationship with the Vancouver Pride Society, through the TD Ready Commitment, is a mutual reflection of our dedication to pushing progress forward for the 2SLGBTQAI+ community in British Columbia.

We are proud to continue this important work with the VPS to help create an inclusive future for everyone. We look forward to celebrating Pride 2022 with attendees in our amazing city this summer," said Grant.

Community members and allies can also look forward to the long awaited return of the Unicorn Ball on May 13 at the Imperial on Main Street. This in-person 19+ annual event raises funds for VPS’s Community Bursaries, a program giving back to equity-seeking communities. Tickets will be available online at vancouverpride.ca/tickets April 1.

Performers

VPS is now accepting expressions of interest from local artists who would like to perform for our Summer Pride events. Click here for application form.

Nominate the Parade Marshal

Nominations are also now open for this year’s Pride Grand Marshals, who historically have been 2SLGBTQAI+ serving groups or individuals who have made a positive difference in our communities.

VPS is asking members of the public who want to nominate someone, or themselves to do so by April 15, 2022.