Fort Macleod held its second Pride Week celebration on Saturday with an expanded schedule of events.
Pride in the Park attracted more than 100 people to Centennial Park on Saturday afternoon, while more than 200 people turned out for Drag Out the Love that night at the Empress Theatre.
“It’s really great to be in town for this,” said Josh O’Sullivan of the organizing committee. “It’s not the first Pride, but it will not be the last.”
The first Pride in the Park was held in 2019, but the event was canceled in 2020 due to the COVID-19 pandemic.
“The year before was the first Pride in the Park and we had a really good turnout,” Jane O’Connor of the organizing committee said. “Because it was so successful we really wanted to make sure we kept that ball rolling.”
Other committee members are Kristi Edwards, Jennie O’Sullivan, Kirsten Burdett, Lori Pelletier and Rob Bourassa.
A member of town council, Edwards brought greetings on behalf of the Town of Fort Macleod.
“We’re super excited this is happening in our town,” Edwards said.
Pride in the Park featured entertainment, education, face-painting, games and vendors.
There was an explanation of the history of flags used by the LGBTQ+ community.
Several people also told their personal stories of growing up LGBTQ+ in Fort Macleod.
An explanation of the use of pronouns and language was also provided.
Various resources were available at booths, and counsellors were on hand to talk to people with questions or concerns.
Saturday night a large crowd poured into the Empress Theatre for Drag Out the Love.
