Celebrate the 2SLGBTQPIA+ community and culture in Kamloops!
From August 21 to August 27, Kamloops Pride Week is a weeklong celebration embracing diversity, the 2SLGBTQPIA+ community, and acceptance in a genuine and meaningful way.Throughout the week, attend events organised by different community groups and businesses alongside the headline events organised by the Kamloops Pride Society, a non-profit organisation supporting people who identify with the 2SLGBTQPIA+ community, including Two-Spirit, Lesbian, Gay, Bisexual, Trans, Queer/Questioning, Pansexual, Intersex, and Asexual/Agender individuals living in the Kamloops region.
Here are 5 fabulous Pride Week 2023 events we're excited to attend:
Pride in the Park
Join the vibrant experience at the 4th Annual Pride Event on Thursday, August 17th, the Movement Collective in collaboration with Yoga Now Kamloops and KSPIN Indoor Cycling Studio in support of Kamloops Pride Society.
Register for one of two energetic sessions where attendees can expect a celebratory journey featuring a dynamic 20-minute Spin, a refreshing 20-minute Barre session, and a soothing 20-minute Yoga practice. But the excitement doesn't end there. Attendees can win exciting prizes from local partners and get a 10% discount on ice cream from Scoopz Kamloops when they show their event ticket receipt.
Want to be part of a positive impact? Secure your tickets now.
Drag Storytime
Join Kamloops Pride for an all-ages FREE Drag Storytime featuring Ella Lamoureux, a celebrated Two-Spirit Sweetheart from Kelowna!
Ella will share her favourite stories and lead a fun craft session for an enjoyable pride-filled experience for all attendees. The event will be hosted at the Kamloops North Shore TNRD Library at 693 Tranquille Rd. on Saturday, August 26, 2023, from 10:30 am to 11:30 am. This inclusive event is free of charge and welcomes individuals of all ages. However, seating is limited, so we recommend securing your spot early. Don't miss this wonderful opportunity to be part of a heartwarming celebration! For more info, visit the Kamloops Pride website.
Kamloops Pride Drag Show
Experience the essence of Pride, community, and drag with Kamloops Pride! Mark your calendars for Thursday, August 24th, when The Blue Grotto transforms into Pride central for an unforgettable evening.
Experience an exceptionally talented lineup of drag artists gracing the stage with host Alma Bitches from Vancouver and special guests Ilona Verley from Canada's Drag Race Season 1, drag king Justin Abit from Call Me Mother Season 2, and local sensation Hollie Woods. The festivities continue beyond the show, with the resident DJ of The Blue Grotto keeping the energy soaring all night long.
For the ultimate experience, bring $5 bills to tip the performers and prepare for an evening filled with entertainment, unity, and celebration! 19+ and a valid government-issued photo ID are required for entry. Grab your ticket here!
Pride Variety Show
Experience the true meaning of diversity at the Kamloops Pride Variety Show! Kicking off Pride Week, this event brings together local talents in dance, music, singing, burlesque, and more. On August 21st, join host Misty Vine and featured performers like Miss Coco Creme, Ivy Nyx, The Rainbow Puffs, Jade the Babe, Lia Bennett, and Queen Jolene for a night of non-stop entertainment. They will have Kamloops Pride merch, non-alcoholic bevies, snacks, and unique tips available for purchase.
This is an 18+ event; a valid government-issued photo ID is needed for entry. Two show times are available, and Tickets are available online and at the door if space permits.
Drag and Paint Party
Prepare for a unique experience for the inaugural Kamloops Drag & Paint Party, featuring queens Freida Whales, Hollie Woods, and Syren Call! On August 21st, from 7–10 pm, immerse yourself in an unforgettable evening filled with vibrant colours, sparkling glitter, captivating drag performances, and an artistic journey like no other.
With your $75 ticket, you're in for a 3-hour entertainment extravaganza that seamlessly weaves together three distinct acts of performances and an immersive guided acrylic paint & stencil session. Worried about your painting skills? No need to fret! An adept instructor will expertly lead you through each step, ensuring your artwork becomes a masterpiece you'll take pride in displaying at home. All the while, Freida and her fellow drag artists will grace the stage with acts that'll keep you thoroughly entertained.
Tickets are available online here, and please note that this event is for those 18 and above.
A Full Week of Events
Pride Parade
From variety shows that celebrate local 2SLGBTQPIA+ and ally performers to a Pride resource fair, pride dance nights, a parade and more, the city is set to come alive with the spirit of inclusivity and joy.
Get ready to immerse yourself in Kamloops Pride Week with this full list of events:
August 17 | Pride In The Park at St. Andrew's on the Square
August 21 | Pride Week Kickoff at the Riverside Park Bandshell
August 21 | Pride Variety Show at The Effie Arts Collective
August 22 | Pride Resource Fair at the Mountain Room, TRU Conference Centre
August 22 | Pride Movie Night at The Paramount Theatre
August 23 | SuperQueeroes Pride Youth Dance at Kelson Hall
August 24 | Art Party Pride Drop-In at Kamloops Art Party
August 24 | Pride 55+ Bingo at the Odd Fellows & Rebekahs Hall
August 24 | Pride Drag Show at The Blue Grotto
August 25 | Wear Your Pride! Dance at The Kamloops Legion
August 26 | Ella's Drag Brunch: Kamloops Pride Edition at Bright Eye Brewing
August 26 | Drag Storytime at the North Kamloops Library
August 26 | FruitCake: Pride at Nightshift on 5th
August 27 | Drag and Paint Party at Kamloops Art Party
August 27 | Kamloops Pride Parade in Downtown Kamloops
August 27 | Kamloops Pride Festival
Show us how you celebrate Pride Week on Instagram by tagging @tourismkamloops and using the hashtag #explorekamloops!