Calgary Pride launches island dance party, lets politicians join parade

Calgary Pride introduced a new outdoor event called Pride on the Island, scheduled for Saturday, Sept. 5, 2026 at Prince’s Island Park. The festival will feature drag superstar Trixie Mattel as the headlining DJ, along with local DJs and performers. Tickets start at $40, with early‑bird sales beginning July 31.

For the first time since 2023, Calgary Pride also opened its annual parade to politicians and political parties. The Calgary Pride Parade is set for Sept. 6, 2025, following a large gathering on Aug. 31, 2025, where thousands marched along 9th Avenue SW. Politicians may now apply to march in the parade, marking a new policy shift for the event.