CW Pride Committee preparing celebration for June 13

ABOYNE – Not only will the Pride flag fly high over the Wellington County Museum and Archives during Pride month, a Pride celebration is planned for June 13 at the site.

Brenda Murphy, chair of the Centre Wellington Pride celebration committee, said the group is excited to launch its second celebration after a very successful 2025 inaugural event.

“We had 400 people come out last year, so we expect there will be more this time,” Murphy said in a phone interview.

“We really want to recognize that our event would not be possible without support from the Guelph Community Foundation and Centre Wellington Township.”

She noted donations from private donors and businesses have guaranteed a series of door prizes and other fun giveaways throughout the event.

As well as food, vendors, games and crafting activities for all ages, the day includes performances by Coastal Cowgirl Line Dancing, Anat Hector, Jey Plourde and Lynx Dean.

The event begins at noon and ends at 4:30pm, with an opening and closing ceremony by Métis Elder Dianne Kilby.

New this year is youth alley, a place where young people can sell their products, play active games like giant Jenga, and visit an education booth with information about local services and education opportunities.

The event, which Murphy described as a giant community picnic, is free, family friendly and inclusive. And it goes on rain or shine. 

Murphy and her team have prepared for protests but remain hopeful the day will go off as easily as last year.

They have spoken with the OPP and have a safety plan should it become necessary to roll it out.

“Last year there were maybe half a dozen snide comments online and not one single problem the day of the event,” Murphy said.

“We planned this to be a fun and joyful event with inclusivity at the core. We’re giving out bubbles. We really are not controversial.”

For more information, visit cwpride.ca.