Calgary Pride returns with new parade route

The Calgary Pride parade is prepped and ready to march through downtown for the first time in three years Sunday.

Slated to start at 11 a.m., Calgary Pride Parade and Festival will start on 9 Avenue SW and 6 Street and continue on a new route.

A representative with Calgary Pride says they are “really excited” for people to join in on the fun.

Britt Nickerson, manager of communications for Calgary Pride, says the 2SLGBTQ+ refugees that are marshals for the parade are a first for Calgary Pride, and a first for Canada.

“We’re really excited to have about 15 folks representing around 10 countries as our marshals this year,” Nickerson said.

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Calgary Pride’s 2019 parade turnout was 8,000, according to their annual report, but Nickerson isn’t sure how 2021 will shape up as it’s their first appearance since the COVID-19 pandemic.

However, Nickerson is anticipating “a lot of folks there.”

“We’re not sure quite how many, but there’s been a lot of interest from the community. So, folks are eager to get involved,” Nickerson said.

They add that many organizations have been requesting a spot in the parade.

“We got a huge amount of applications from organizations wanting to participate. We’ve been getting tons of volunteer offers. So, we know the community is very excited to get involved and to come celebrate with us again.”

There are viewing areas between 6 Street SW and 4 Street SE, and an accessible viewing area directly in front of Central Library on 9 Avenue SE and 3 Street on the north side.

Nickerson says that roads will be closed not only for the parade, but also for construction happening in Calgary. They recommend people arrive early, and use transit.

With a heat warning in the city, the temperature is projected to be 32 C in Calgary on Sunday, so Nickerson says people should be prepared for the sweltering heat..

“Come early. Get a great spot. Bring some water sunscreen, and your hat,” Nickerson said. “It’s looking to be very warm that day.”

Add that the cancellation of the Montreal Pride parade sparked discussion around security of that event, Calgary Pride enlisted their own private security firm to address those concerns.

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“I believe that is why Montreal Pride couldn’t proceed, because they did not hire a private security firm,” Nickerson said. “We’ll have volunteers at every block to manage the route and keep an eye on folks.”

They add that they are working with the city to ensure safety for parade participants and people in the crowd. Calgary police will also be present, but have not been permitted to march this year.

Nickerson says that the DOAP team will be present to offer outreach and harm reduction services.

The parade is anticipated to finish at around 12 p.m. at Fort Calgary, where the festival will take place.

Right after the parade, people can walk a couple of blocks to Fort Calgary to enjoy a free event that features over 40 performances at two stages.

“There’ll be food trucks, tons of vendors and marketplace, beer gardens with village brewery, kid and pet-friendly activities. So there’ll be a lot to do there at Fort Calgary for the afternoon,” Nickerson said.

People looking for more information about the Pride Parade and Festival can go to their website.

-With files from Chris Bowen.