The Calgary Pride Parade on September 1 is a can’t-miss party.
But there are plenty of other opportunities to celebrate Calgary Pride across the city. Here’s just a few!
Join the Alphabet Mafia
Billed as a “Queer Art Fête,” Alphabet Mafia is a queer art show that celebrates empowerment and diverse expression, presented by Calgary Pride and Calgary Arts Development. It’s four days of visual arts, fashion shows, dance and more to kick off your Calgary Pride experience. August 15 to 18 at The Grand Theatre and SpanicArts. Visit calgarypride.ca for more information.
Support a good cause and compete in Pride Trivia at Cabin
Test your queer knowledge at Pride Trivia at Cabin Brewing. Tickets are only 10 bucks — and that includes a drink! Grab a can of Super Love on the way out: Cabin donates $1 from every can to organizations that support the 2SLGBTQIA+ community, which includes Alberta’s Trans Affirming Legal Fund this year. August 29 at Cabin Brewing. Explore the events calendar at cabinbrewing.ca to learn more.
Fill up at a Pride Brunch
Empower Calgary’s queer youth community at the Centre for Sexuality’s annual Pride Brunch. This breakfast event raises funds for Camp fYrefly, a summer camp for 2SLGBTQ+ youth in Southern Alberta. The event features a buffet and drag entertainment. August 31 at Hyatt Regency Calgary. Check the events calendar at centreforsexuality.ca for ticket information.
Tear up the Electric Pride Party & Drag Show
The Electric Stage Series drag collective is taking over the historic Back Alley Nightclub to end Pride weekend on a high note. This free event features drag performances, DJs spinning all the hits, a 50/50 raffle, door prizes, and more. September 1 at The Back Alley Night Club. Reserve your free tickets at the Electric Stage Series page on eventbrite.ca.
Spend the weekend with The Cabaret Company at Dickens
If the rainbow mural at the entrance didn’t clue you in, know that Dickens is one of Calgary’s hottest spots for queer celebration. The bar hosts inclusive events every month and lights up for all of Pride Week with gay burlesque, drag shows, and more put together by The Cabaret Company. Plan your week with the events calendar at dickensyyc.com and thecabaretcompany.com.
Enjoy a drink (or several) at The Attic
Situated right in the heart of Calgary’s music mile, The Attic is a hub of queer music, comedy, and entertainment events. Join the bar this year for its second annual INGLEPRIDE party, which promises bouncy beats, delectable treats, tasty cocktails, and diverse live entertainment. September 1 at The Attic Bar & Stage. Stay tuned to theatticyyc.ca for more details and ticket information.
Score a homerun at Pride Slam
The Calgary Apollo Softball Association is an independent community-driven softball league for 2SLGBTQ+ individuals. Over Pride weekend, it hosts a one-day tournament full of baseball and fun events aimed to bring together Calgary’s queer athletic community. August 31 at Deerfoot Athletic Park. If you want to play, check casaleague.ca for registration information.