Many are beaming with pride at a milestone anniversary in Windsor-Essex.
The pride flag was raised Wednesday morning at Windsor City Hall.
The ceremony kicked off the 25th Windsor-Essex Pride Fest.
President David Lenz says they are making a concerted effort to reach out to more people, including those who live in the County.
“There are more things to come down the road with projects year-round,” says Lenz. “Not just the festival, but reaching out to members of the community having issues.”
“The LGBT+ movement has come a long way since it started in 1992 and we are thrilled to put together so many exciting activities for the community to enjoy,” adds Lenz. “This week’s events highlight the advances made for the LGBT+ community, the support of its allies and to showcase Windsor-Essex as a wonderful region for guests to visit”.
Resident Paulette Kupnicki attended the ceremony with her wife of 35 years. She tells CTV News the community’s acknowledgement is important.
The week-long celebration kicks off Thursday at 7 p.m. with free bowling at REVS Rose Bowl on Dougall Avenue.
Friday features multiple events including Pride Lawn Bowling at the Windsor Lawn Bowling Club at Jackson Park, an alcohol free event called Untoxicated to be held at the Pride Fest office starting at 7 p.m. and Glitterball which will be held at The Rondo beginning at 9 p.m.
Pride Marketplace is a free event on Saturday from 12 p.m. until 6 p.m. at Riverfront Festival Plaza. The event features over 35 vendors, inflatable rides, face painting, a Home Depot Craft table, youth arts tent and much more.
There is a circus themed dance party called “Glow” Saturday, also at Riverfront Festival Plaza starting at 8 p.m.
The weekend culminates on Sunday starting with the annual parade down Ouellette Avenue at Elliot starting at 11 a.m. The parade runs down Ouellette and into Riverfront Festival Plaza, where legendary Detroit performer Sabin will MC and host a variety of talent including Nikki & The Dirty Elizabeths, Sarah Smith, and many other performers.
The anniversary will also be recognized by Caesars Windsor where the casino will be lit up in the Rainbow colours until Sunday.
