The Bay of Quinte Pride Week committee is busy preparing for this year’s celebrations.
Pride Week is June 4-11.
Organizing committee member Greg Parsons says the theme of this year’s week is, “the next generation, our future.”
“And so we’re just looking forward to a better future. Things are changing very quickly of course, but there still are problems in society and so we’re just looking to create a better future for people. So, the parade is going to be led by the youth group, the queer youth group.”
Parsons says the events are open to everyone.
The always popular Pride Parade is on June 10. It will be followed by Pride in the Park at West Zwick’s Park.
“Last year was the largest Pride Parade we’ve had in Belleville. Certainly Pride in the Park this year we’ve got the most vendors that we’ve ever had. And so we’re looking forward to a wonderful event that day.”
The day finishes with Pride After Dark at the Smokin’ 116 Bistro and Bar.
Other events include the flag raising at Quinte Sports and Wellness Centre on June 5, Pride in the Park and Pride in the Dark on June 10, and Interfaith church services on June 4 and 11.
Parsons says not a lot has changed with this year’s celebrations as the organizing committee is still rebuilding coming out of the pandemic, however, he expects some new events to be added next year.
The parade route will likely change slightly as well, starting on Pinnacle Street instead of at Empire Square, though that has not been confirmed.
There are other Pride events across the region including the Pride March in Conservation Park in Napanee on June 3 which will be followed by Pride in the Country at the Strathcona Paper Centre.
Also on June 3, Tyendinaga hosts the 4th Annual Car Pride Parade which departs Centennial Park in Deseronto at 9 a.m.
For more on Bay of Quinte Pride Week events, head to their Facebook page.
