The Lacombe Pride Society is gearing up for their annual community-wide celebration, Lacombe Pride Weekend, taking place from August 23 to August 25. This event is a time for all Central Albertans to come together and enjoy a variety of events, activities, and learning opportunities. Jonathan Luscombe, the executive director of the Lacombe Pride Society, emphasizes the importance of creating a community of inclusion where everyone feels safe and accepted for who they are. The theme for this year’s Pride Weekend is Resilience, highlighting the strength and unity of the LGBTQIA2S+ community in the face of challenges.
The festivities kick off on Friday with a flag raising ceremony at the Michener House, symbolizing progress and inclusivity for all members of the community. This will be followed by various events such as the EveryBody Swim, Pride Corner on Whyte Pop-up, and Pups and Pints, providing opportunities for people to come together and celebrate diversity. Saturday’s lineup includes Pride in the Park, featuring a vendor market, crafts and games, mainstage performances, and a BBQ at Lest We Forget Park. The day culminates with the Paint the Town Gay 18+ Drag Show at the Lacombe Performing Arts Centre, showcasing the diversity of drag performers and promising a night of entertainment and fun.
On Sunday, the festivities continue with the 2 Spirit Learning Day and Picnic at PoPows Park, offering a space for learning and community engagement. The Pride Society has taken feedback from previous events to heart, incorporating more 2 Spirit engagement and additional programming to meet the needs of the community. Programs such as Rainbow Underground, Caregiver support groups, and adult game nights have been developed to foster connections and support within the LGBTQIA2S+ community.
Luscombe hopes that Central Albertans attending the event will feel safe, celebrated, and leave with a sense of belonging and joy. The goal of Lacombe Pride Weekend is to create a welcoming and inclusive environment where everyone can come together to celebrate their identities and build connections. For those outside of the LGBTQIA2S+ community, Luscombe encourages openness to learning about pride and creating a community that embraces diversity and acceptance for all.
Overall, Lacombe Pride Weekend promises to be a time of celebration, learning, and community building. With a focus on resilience and unity, this event is an opportunity for people to come together, support one another, and celebrate the unique and beautiful differences that make each individual special. Whether you are a member of the LGBTQIA2S+ community or an ally, Lacombe Pride Weekend offers something for everyone to enjoy and participate in.