This article was published on September 29th, 2020

For more than seven years, the iconic Canadian Rocky Mountains destination, Banff, has played host to a Pride event like no other. Well, Banff Pride returns to the beautiful Bow Valley region of Alberta, for a series of socially distanced events celebrating LGBTQ+ diversity and community.

The event, which runs from October 4 – 11, kicks off with a Zoom affirming celebration with the Rundle United Church. It also features activities including roller disco at the Fenlands hosted by the Lady Macs roller derby team, a Pride trivia night at Banff Springs bowling center.

Other activities for the week include a rainbow walk and flag raising, Pride community yoga class, a Pride Cask beer night, comedy nights, among others.

Banff has recently installed a new rainbow pathway that celebrates the community’s diversity and inclusion of its residents and visitors. The path is located at a beautiful location where visitors can capture backdrops of the Rocky Mountains.

A different Pride event

Due to COVD-19 global health pandemic and the health and safety restrictions in place, Banff Pride will look different this year.

Organizers are taking precautions and providing safe and physically distanced events for participants. Attendees need to practice individual responsibility.

As such, respect all travel restrictions currently in place. Banff Pride is suitable for people within Canada, especially withing the Alberta and British Columbia drive markets. 

If you feel unwell, please stay home and follow the festivities from home. For example, you can watch the Rundle Valley United Church affirming celebration via Zoom here. It happens on Sunday, October 4, 2020, 10:00 AM – 11:30 AM MT. 

Additionally, observe all the health guidelines in place, such as wearing a mask, washing your hands regularly with soap and water, or sanitizing with an alcohol-based sanitizer. Also, respect physical distancing.

A roster of inclusive events

Banff Pride has always distinguished itself as an inclusive event that welcomes diversity. This year’s event takes it a notch higher. Events this year cater to all ages and interests. There is something for everyone, from a Pride movie evening and drag comedy to Pride paint night and drag queen story time.

In addition to the impressive roster of events, Banff restaurants have been challenged to create and feature Pride-themed cocktails and desserts on their menus to showcase diversity. You are guaranteed to “taste the rainbow.” More important, proceeds go to regional LGBTQ2+ organizations. 

Some of the cocktails on offer include alpine gin and soda – high rollers, passion for Pride, Electric lemonade, among others. You can view the complete list here and participate remotely by creating these delicious cocktails at home.

Banff Pride has partnered with the Banff Lake Louise Tourism, and with their support, local businesses have stepped up to make Banff Pride a truly inclusive community event. There will be plenty of time throughout the week to enjoy hikes in Banff and Lake Louise, horseback riding, fishing, tours and the gondola ride in Banff National Park, tours of the stunning assure blue Moraine Lake, endless days of rejuvenation in Banff and Lake Louise, scenic drives, and electric bike rentals to explore the area.

Pride adventures

Due to COVID-19, Banff Pride 2020 is not a hookup weekend. The focus is on the Pride events, activities and experience what the Banff and the Bow Valley has to offer. Check out the scenic sites, reconnect with yourself and the community on the peaceful, breathtaking trails. Immerse yourself in nature and experience all it has to offer.

This is a Pride event like no other. According to one resident, Banff Pride “is about inclusion and having everyone together, regardless of where you come from, regardless of gender identity, sexual orientation, gender expression, or any other thing.”

Check out Banff Pride’s website for more information, and visit Banff & Lake Louise Tourism website to learn more about the breathtaking Canadian destination and its surroundings as you plan your Pride getaway. If you need accommodation, there are rooms available at the Rimrock Resort Hotel.