Despite a rainy start, the annual Owen Sound Pride Parade saw a large turnout.
A crowd of people gathered in the River District yesterday afternoon for the parade which marched to the farmers’ market in rainbow colours.
Prior to the parade, several queer vendors set up along 9th Street East for the new Pride-organized block party, which closed the road between 2nd and 3rd avenues, which became even more busy following the parade.
Grey Bruce Pride Communications Director Rachel Paterson says the rain wouldn’t stop people from coming out to enjoy pride.
“The turnout today is what one can expect, it’s a rainy start, but you know what they say, after the rain comes the rainbow,” says Paterson.
The block party was a new addition to the festivities this year as Paterson says they have outgrown the market space, which has in the past held a market and after party gathering following the parade.
In addition to vendors, the block party featured a portable stage and a drag king show.
Owen Sound Pride Block Party (Photo by Nathan Shubert)
“Everyone is excited for the parade it’s lovely. Loving seeing the community come on out, they make their own decorations and loving seeing that folks are still here not matter rain or shine,” says Paterson.
She adds they also had various fundraisers to support Grey Bruce Pride.
“Even if people want to find safe harbour at Parkwood, or Rumpus or Casero’s, they do have drinks that have specials and portions of the proceeds go to Grey Bruce Pride,” says Paterson. “It goes towards our parades and different events that we have throughout the year. We also run a gender-affirming library as well.”
More Pride events are being held throughout the month, with more details available on Grey Bruce Pride’s Facebook page here.
