The capital of Alberta and the province's second-largest city, Edmonton has earned the nickname "Festival City" for its many annual events. It's only fitting that this city of about 750,000 has a sizable Gay Pride Week, which comprises a number of engaging events in the middle of the month of June. In 2009, Edmonton Gay Pride takes place from June 12 through June 21 - the theme this year is the "Age of Aqueerious."
Here's a quick look at what you can expect at Edmonton Gay Pride in 2009 (keep in mind that Edmonton Pride differs from many similar Pride weeks in that the main event, the parade and celebration, take place near the beginning of the week, not at the end):
Edmonton Pride's most prominent event is the Gay Pride Parade, which takes place on Saturday, June 13, and begins at 2 pm and runs east for several blocks along Jasper Ave NW, from 108 St. NW, continuing past Alberta College Campus, and then turning north (left) up 99 St. NW before ending at Churchill Square. Here's a map of the parade route.
The parade is followed by a Pride Celebration at Churchill Square, which includes a beer garden, food stalls, a community and business fair, and live entertainment. That evening, there's a Womonspace Pride Dance (open to all adults) at the Hellenic Canadian Community Hall (10450 116 St., from 9 pm until 2 am.
Edmonton Pride consists of numerous additional events throughout the week, including a Pure Pride Dance Party at Play Nightclub on the Friday evening before the parade (June 12). There are also church services, sports competitions, a PFLAG gathering, a tour of the famed Devonian Botanic Gardens, a film festival, Pride Youth events, and - on the final day of Pride Week (Sunday, June 21), a Mayor's Pride Brunch. It other words - lots to keep you busy.
Of course, additionally, plenty of gay-popular restaurants, hotels, and shops will be extra busy during this busy time, and catering heavily to LGBT visitors. Check local gay papers, such as Outlooks Magazine for details. Also check out Travel Gay Canada's online directory on Alberta, which has extensive information on Edmonton's gay scene.
