So you’re thinking about going to Pride for the first time and have some questions? I’m so glad you asked, because honestly, it’s one of the most beautiful, affirming experiences you can have. Whether you’re questioning, just came out, have been out for years but never made it to a festival, or there’s someone important in your life that wants you to tag along, let me tell you why Pride might be exactly what you need right now.
A Little History Worth Knowing
Pride festivals aren’t just big parties (though they absolutely are that too). They started as acts of resistance and remembrance. The first Pride march happened in 1970, one year after the Stonewall riots in New York City, when 2SLGBTQ+ people finally said “enough” to decades of police harassment and discrimination. What began as a protest for basic human rights has evolved into a worldwide celebration of identity, love, and community.
Every rainbow flag you see, every parade float, every person dancing in the street carries forward that legacy of courage. You’re not just attending a festival – you’re participating in a tradition of people who refused to hide who they were, even when the world told them they should.
“But What Will People from My Town Think?”
I hear this worry all the time, and it’s completely understandable. Small towns can feel like fishbowls where everyone knows everyone’s business. Maybe you’re worried about running into your boss, your neighbor, or someone from church. Maybe you’re not ready for certain conversations yet.
Here’s the thing though – you have every right to explore who you are and what brings you joy. Your journey is yours, and you don’t owe anyone an explanation for attending an event that celebrates love and acceptance. Plus, you might be surprised by who else you see there. I’ve lost count of how many people have told me they were shocked to discover their “straight” coworker or that quiet person from their book club dancing at the same Pride festival.
A wonderful thing about small town prides is that many of the attendees are allies, so you aren’t necessarily outing yourself by being in attendance!
If you’re still nervous, consider going to a Pride event in a nearby city rather than your hometown. Sometimes having that little bit of distance can help you feel more comfortable being yourself.
“Am I Welcome If I’m Just an Ally?”
Absolutely, yes! Allies have been part of Pride since the beginning. The 2SLGBTQ+ community has always thrived because of the support from friends, family members, and straight allies who showed up when it mattered. Your presence says “I see you, I support you, and I’m here to celebrate with you.”
Just remember that while you’re absolutely welcome, Pride is primarily by and for 2SLGBTQ+ people. Be respectful, listen more than you speak, and remember you’re a guest in someone else’s celebration. But please, come! The community is always stronger with allies who genuinely care.
The Magic of Being Yourself
Here’s what I really want you to understand about Pride: for many of us, it’s one of the few times all year we get to exist in a space where being queer is not just accepted but celebrated. Imagine walking down a street where holding your partner’s hand doesn’t require you to scan for potential threats. Picture being surrounded by thousands of people who understand what it’s like to feel different, to have struggled with family acceptance, or to have hidden parts of themselves.
For those few hours or days, you get to let your guard down completely. You can wear what makes you feel confident, express affection openly, and be unapologetically yourself. There’s something profoundly healing about being in a crowd where you’re not the only one, where your identity isn’t questioned, and where love in all its forms is the norm rather than the exception.
What to Actually Expect
Pride festivals vary widely depending on where you go. Some are massive multi-day events with concerts, vendor booths, and elaborate parades. Others are smaller community gatherings in local parks. Most fall somewhere in between, featuring a parade, live entertainment, food vendors, and information booths from local 2SLGBTQ+ organizations.
You’ll see people of all ages, from teenagers with their first rainbow flags to elders who’ve been fighting for equality for decades. You’ll encounter drag performers, political candidates, church groups, corporate sponsors, and families with kids. It’s beautifully chaotic and wonderfully diverse.
The atmosphere is generally joyful and accepting, but it’s also a real community event, which means you might encounter some disagreements or drama – just like any large gathering. Overall though, the vibe is celebratory and welcoming.
The Elk Valley Pride Festival has been fortunate thus far to not encounter any protesting and hopefully that continues.
Some Practical Advice
If you decide to go, here are a few tips from someone who’s been to more Pride events than I can count:
Wear comfortable shoes and clothes that make you feel good. Bring sunscreen and water. If you’re nervous about going alone, see if you can find a friend to join you – many people attend their first Pride with a buddy. Check the website schedule beforehand to see what activities interest you most and get tickets if necessary (the Drag Shows and Drag Brunch sell out quickly).
Most importantly, give yourself permission to feel whatever comes up. You might feel overwhelmed with emotion, incredibly happy, or even a bit confused – all of that is normal. There’s no wrong way to experience Pride.
You Belong There
Maybe you’re still questioning your identity, or maybe you’ve known who you are for years but never felt brave enough to show up. Maybe you’re worried you’re not “queer enough” or that you won’t fit in. Let me be clear: if you’re drawn to Pride, if something inside you is curious about this celebration of authentic living and love, then you belong there.
The 2SLGBTQ+ community is beautifully diverse, and there’s room for everyone who comes with an open heart and genuine intention. Your story matters, your presence matters, and your joy matters.
Pride season happens once a year, but the feeling of belonging and acceptance you might discover there? That can last a lifetime. So if you’re on the fence, I’d encourage you to take that leap. Find a Pride event near you, gather your courage, and show up as yourself.
Trust me, your future self will thank you for it.