It’s the most colourful time of the year! The city’s biggest and most diverse celebration, Vancouver Pride, hits the West End and surrounding areas of the city starting July 21 and running through to August 1, when over half a million people are expected to turn out to enjoy the 2022 Pride Parade.
Per Vancouver Pride’s website:
The organization has planned a variety of signature and partnered events spanning a mostly in-person lineup with digital experiences for those who choose to experience Pride differently amid COVID-19 safety measures. This year’s festival is themed Together Again and is meant to highlight the excitement and importance of 2SLGBTQAI+ communities taking up space and gathering for in-person, community-focused events once more.
For many, the pinnacle is the showstopping Pride Parade, winding through downtown Vancouver then along Denman Street to Sunset Beach. The parade includes approximately 150 entries consisting of floats, dancers, entertainers, musicians, and more. Part celebration, part protest, the three-hour parade reflects on the past with eyes on the future. At the end of the parade route, is the annual Sunset Beach Festival, complete with entertainment stages, food trucks, family activities and a beer garden.
Of course, there are a host of other events worth catching. Here are a trio we have our eyes on.
Rainbow Lounge
July 22—24, 28—31; 12 pm—12 am (weekdays), 12 pm —2 am (weekends); Ocean Arts Pavilion
This is the first time Granville Island is hosting a Pride event! The Rainbow Lounge offers views and art, along with drag and musical performances, while event sponsors Stoli Vodka, Vizzy Seltzer, Bud Light, and Stanley Park Brewing keep the refreshments flowing.
Drag Deliveries
July 25—31; 5 pm—6 pm; West End and Downtown Vancouver
A street team of drag performers will be strolling the downtown peninsula spreading cheer and testing your Pride trivia knowledge with prizes on offer! Follow @vancouverpride on Instagram to see where you can discover them each day.
Pride Neighbourhood Patio at Bentall
July 28—30; 12 pm—8 pm; Bentall Center Plaza
Swing by the Pride Neighbourhood Patio anytime between noon and 8 pm for drag, drinks and music while exploring downtown Vancouver. We love an eight-hour party!
Looking for a hotel just as unique as you? Check out our booking page to find a room that will complement your fun and fabulous Vancouver vacation.
Photo Credit:
Vancouver Pride Society Facebook page