Thunder Bay’s Pride story is built on decades of local community care and organizing. Long before today’s parade and festival, people in the region were creating spaces for connection, support, and visibility often quietly, and often in the face of discrimination.

Modern Pride in Thunder Bay grew into what we recognize today when a small planning committee formed in 2010. From there, the first modern Pride celebrations took place in 2011, and the Pride Parade was added in 2013, becoming a lasting tradition that continues to grow year after year.

Across Canada, Pride didn’t begin as a party it began as protest.

In 1971, activists gathered in Canada’s capital to present what became known as the “We Demand” list calling for legal and policy changes to end discrimination against queer and trans people. This moment helped spark a broader movement for 2SLGBTQIA+ rights across the country.

By 1973, Pride events and marches were emerging in multiple Canadian cities, blending community celebration with activism and visibility.

A major turning point in Canadian 2SLGBTQIA+ history happened in Toronto in 1981, when police carried out the bathhouse raids known as Operation Soap. These raids led to hundreds of arrests and sparked large public protests and widespread community organizing.

You might hear people refer to this era as “riots,” but it’s more accurate to describe it as police raids followed by major protests and demonstrations. For many, the public response to Operation Soap became a defining Canadian moment one that helped shape the growth of Pride events and strengthened organized advocacy across the country.

When you come to Pride you can expect a vibrant display of colourful floats, energetic music, dancing, and a whole lot of joy. You’ll see local community groups marching proudly, enjoy performances, Shop vendors and feel the welcoming spirit that makes Pride in Thunder Bay so special.

If you’d like to join us, click the links below to choose your own adventurer. Don’t see your option? Reach out to us, and we’ll get in touch with everything you need to know to be part of the celebration.