Pride events coming to Annapolis Valley
Two weeks of Pride events planned to raise awareness, celebrate diversity
July is Pride Month, and for Mike Butler, that’s a great thing. “Sounds funny for me to say that because every day, for me, is Pride something or other,” he says. “When you live it, it makes the month seem like an extension of your usual celebrating of the LGBTQ community.”
Butler is excited for the Pride events in the Valley this year, with two weeks of special events planned to raise awareness and celebrate diversity.
On July 14, the two-week Pride celebration will be kicked off with a Pride flag raising celebration at Wolfville’s waterfront park at 4 p. m. — and will also coincide with Butler’s wedding to his partner, Ian.
“I don’t think we could have planned it better. As the flag goes up, we say our “I Dos,” just adding to the perfection of the day,” he said.
“It’ll be a must- see event full of friendship and love. There will be guest speakers, including Master Chef contestant Felix Fudge.”
On July 18, people are encouraged to dress as bright as they want and attend the Pride Market at the Wolfville Farmers’ Market from 4-7 p.m. There will be rainbow-inspired food, Pride booths, fun activities and the debut performance of Butler’s drag alter-ego Sharon DaLove.
New to the Pride events this Mike Butler
year is a Pride Ride led by Wolfville Mayor Jeff Cantwell July 21. The event is open to anyone with a bike and will take place on the Harvest Trail. Start time and distance are still to be determined.
Also on July 21, the Wolfville Lions Hall will be hopping with two big events put on to raise money for the local theatre community. A ticket auction will be held from 10 a. m.- 12: 30 p.m., with many items available. There will be hot dogs and treats for the kids as well. In the evening, from 7 p.m. to midnight, a Decades Dance with all the hits from the 60s to 90s will be held, with Butler offering up DJ services. There will be a cash bar, a 50/ 50 draw and lots of fun. Dance tickets are $ 10 at the door.
On July 22, the Retro Blockbuster Series at the Al Whittle Theatre is screening The Adventures of Priscilla Queen of the Desert, the cult classic film from down under with great music, a strong message and Oscar-winning costumes.
On July 29, to close the Pride events, the Rainbow Chorus is having a Celebration of Spirit event at the Manning Memorial Chapel, at Acadia University, with music and togetherness.
In recognition of Wolfville’s 125th anniversary, the local Wolfville and Area Pride Group is holding a 125 Random Acts of Kindness pledge campaign that begins this Pride season. Pledge cards will be available around town for people (LGBTIQ2SAQ and allies) to take and keep track of their random acts of kindness for the rest of 2018. It would be a commitment to the large, inclusive and justice- promoting community. Pledge cards can be picked up at local cafes, stores, the university and more.
“So many wonderful things to celebrate this Pride season,” Butler said. “Hang out your flag and celebrate together.”