Calgary’s about to explode in colour, glitter, and unapologetic joy. Pride is turning 35 years fabulous, and the theme this year — “Bursting Into Bloom” — is all about celebrating the seeds of love, growth, and change that queer folks and allies have been planting in this city for decades. From drag monarchs to family fun, August 30–31 is going to be an unmissable two-day celebration at Prince’s Island Park. The best part? It’s all free.
So grab your rainbow flags, lace up those boots, and let’s get into the lineup.
🌈 Saturday, August 30: Marches, Markets & Midnight Magic
Saturday kicks off with power and purpose at the Trans and Dyke March (3–5 p.m.) — a rally for resilience, visibility, and queer joy at the Main Stage. Expect speeches that give goosebumps and performances that leave you screaming “yas!” louder than you thought possible.
Then, the island transforms. From 5–10 p.m., things get a little saucier with 18+ programming — think burlesque, drag, and a beer garden with a view. Not into booze? The Queer Garden will be serving up tasty zero-proof cocktails while you kiki with friends.
If shopping with a cheeky edge is your vibe, don’t miss the Night Market (5–9 p.m.), where adult-themed art and goods are waiting to fill your tote bag — and maybe raise some eyebrows when you get home.
🌸 Sunday, August 31: Parade Day & Family Pride
Sunday morning? Time to strut. The Calgary Pride Parade (11 a.m.) starts at Studio Bell and marches through downtown before landing at Prince’s Island Park. Expect floral floats, pounding beats, and a tsunami of sequins. This is where love quite literally takes to the streets.
From noon onwards, it’s full-blown festival vibes: live music, drag, interactive fun, and more food trucks than your appetite can handle. The Kids Zone (12–6 p.m.) is a mini rainbow paradise complete with bouncy castles, face painting, and kid-friendly drag shows. Meanwhile, the 2SLGBTQIA+ Market (12–8 p.m.) spotlights queer makers and non-profits in the Wellness Oasis, perfect for those looking to support local and give back.
Of course, the Beer Garden and Queer Garden remain open, because hydration (in whatever form you choose) is key to surviving a 10-hour party.
🌟 Beyond the Island: Pride Is Year-Round
Yes, Pride weekend is the grand finale of August — but the message is clear: being proud isn’t just a two-day gig. Leading up to the big event, local restaurants, bars, and shops will be hosting pride-themed happenings across the city. And Calgary Pride themselves want you to remember: Pride is 365 days a year.
So whether you’re there to dance till your glitter runs, shop queer-made goods, or march for justice, Prince’s Island Park is the place to be August 30–31. Calgary Pride 2025 is short, loud, bold, and bursting into bloom — just like the community it celebrates. 🌸