Explosions of sound, colour and glitter marked the progress of the Victoria Pride Parade as it weaved its way down Wharf Street Sunday morning, drawing thousands to downtown Victoria on one of the hottest days the capital region has seen this year.
The parade was returning for the first time since 2019, when COVID-19 restrictions nixed in-person events and festivals.
Melody Fenton, a teen from Colwood, was attending the Pride parade and festival for the first time.
“You can just be yourself,” Fenton said. “You don’t have to worry about anyone judging you.”
Fenton was accompanied by grandmother Christine King.
“Everyone is so thoughtful and kind,” King said. “Everyone is very, very kind to each other.”
Parade spectator Aspen Ker, who was sporting rainbow face paint, said it was incredible to be together again.
“It’s been such a positive, amazing experience,” Ker said. “We need Pride to continue to fight for our rights and freedoms. And to show everyone else, ‘hey we exist and this is ok. Welcome to Pride.’”
The parade started at the Johnson Street Bridge at 11 a.m. before heading down Wharf Street and travelling via Government, Belleville and Menzies streets to MacDonald Park for the Victoria Pride Festival.
Thousands of people attended the post-parade festival, which included nearly 200 artisan and information vendors, a food court, entertainment and kids play area and corner stage.
Julian Paquette, a Victoria Pride Society board member, was working the busy society booth at the park. He wasn’t sure how this year’s attendance compared to years past, but noted that there was great attendance from families and allies.
“We’re feeling really excited to see so many people out, especially after … the pandemic. It’s just beautiful to see the community come together,” Paquette said. “It’s a beautiful day for celebration.”
