PRIDE PARADE – Registration opens for 3rd annual downtown parade

Registration is open for the 3^rd Annual Downtown Kamloops Pride Parade happening Sunday, Aug. 25.

“The past two years have been incredible and we are beyond excited to be opening registration for 2019,” Sam Numsen, Kamloops Pride president, said Friday (June 7, 2019).

The organization is asking those interested in registering to visit www.kamloopspride.com/parade to register as individuals, community organizations or businesses and other groups.  Individuals will march as part of the Kamloops Pride delegation which leads the parade.

“The event has become a highlight for many in Kamloops,” said Numsen, adding that participants never fail to show their authentic selves during Pride celebrations. “Whether it’s colour coordinated looks or over-the-top costumes, marchers go all out for this event and lean into the freedom of expression that Pride events encourage.”

In order to work around potential Victoria Street West reconstruction traffic issues and ensure all aspects of the event are as accessible as possible, the festival location has moved from Riverside Park, where the event has taken place since 2017.

“The festival grounds and Pride Parade start will be at Stuart Wood elementary and on St. Paul Street between 3^rd and 2^nd this year, similar to the setup used by the Kamloops Farmers’ Market,” said Numsen.

“This new location will feature the same incredible community booths, mainstage entertainment and food trucks that were part of our event in the past, but with a more urban, block-party feel that we’re very excited about.”

The new venue will mean a different starting location for the paradebut marchers will still wind through the downtown core.  Spectators are encouraged to line Victoria Street to show their support during the parade and join the Pride Festival at the Stuart Wood Grounds immediately afterward until 3 p.m.

Bicycles, scooters and mobility aids are welcome as part of the parade but motorized vehicles (flatbeds, trailers etc.) are not permitted, in line with years past.

“Pride parades are rooted in activism and while we have heard from a small number of folks keen to see vehicles and floats, we are committed to keeping the grassroots spirit of Pride Parades intact as much as possible, and having a march-style parade contributes to that.”

Registration details are at www.kamloopspride.com/parade. The last day for community organizations, businesses, unions, political organizations and other groups to register will be Monday, Aug. 5, while individuals can register up to the morning of the event.  Registration fees are $50 for non-profits and community organizations and $150 for businesses, unions, government and political organizations.