Your Guide to Pride T.O. 2012

Toronto is frequently cited as one of the most diverse and inclusive cities in the world. If you’ve ever been to a Toronto Pride event, you know that reputation is well-earned.

In celebration of the unique spirit of the LGBTQ community and its supporters, we’ve compiled a handy guide to some must-see events for Toronto Pride 2012!

The Parade

July 1

You can’t have Pride without the iconic parade. Between the floats, the spectacle and especially the drag queens, who wouldn’t want to be in on the fun?

The parade begins at the intersection of Bloor and Church and ends at Church and Gerard. Click here for a map for the parade route.

Buddies in Bad Times Theatre presents Queer Pride

June 20 – July 1

Church and Wellesley’s popular theatre-by-day, queer club-by-night has always been host to some super fab queer events. This year is no different! Here’s a sampling:

• Work It! (June 22) – Toronto’s first ever queer hip hop showcase hosted by MC Jazz
• Airship (June 23) – A steampunk-themed circus world of acrobatics & dancing
• Freaks & Geeks: The Drag Musical (June 27) – Pretty much exactly what it sounds like
• Lady Oiye’s Tea Dance (July 1) – A family-friendly afternoon for anyone escaping the heat

Pride at the Gladstone

June 20 – July 15

For the especially hip (and, let’s face it, especially hipster) crowd, the trendy Gladstone Hotel has all bases covered.

• 10 x 10 Exhibition (June 20 – July 15) – 10 LGBTQ photographers contribute portraits of the community’s rising stars
• Trivia Night (June 28) – Presented by Inside Out & TIFF. A fun night of LGBTQ film trivia & prizes
• Night of a Thousand Dollys (June 28) – Country meets camp in this rowdy bar night
• This Is My Biggest One Yet (June 28) – A lively cabaret show with great music & cocktails

Pride Service of Celebration 2012

June 24

St. Andrew’s Church offers an evening celebration with beautiful music, thoughtful messages and a guest speech from former mayor David Miller. Faith and pride go together way better than you might expect.

Toronto’s LGBT Short Film Showcase

June 25 – June 29

For those inclined toward LGBT cinema, check out this diverse and fascinating line up of short films presented by Canadian Media Guild. It runs from 9 am – 7 pm all week at the Graham Spry Theatre. Best of all, admission is free!

Pride Closing Party: Queer West

July 1

Want to bring the house down, Pride-style? We’ve all got the Monday off, so why not? This raucous party hosted at El Mocambo boasts “Dance. Drinks. Whatever.” Sounds good to us!

How will you be celebrating during Pride Week?

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