Here are some of the best Virtual Pride events in Toronto this month

Toronto Pride Month is here, but this year it won’t be happening in the streets of the city.

“While Pride has had to go virtual due to COVID-19, programming will help keep the LGBTQ2S+ and broader communities connected and engaged throughout the month,” said Mayor John Tory in a statment.

He also spoke on the importance of Pride Month for the Toronto community in his statement.

“This month presents an opportunity to reflect on the progress made to recognize and protect the rights of LGBTQ2S+ communities and the work that still needs to be done.”

I'm proud to proclaim #PrideMonth in the @CityofToronto – an important celebration in the life of our city. During this month especially, we must stand together the Toronto way and remember that love is love and no form of hatred or discrimination is acceptable in our city. pic.twitter.com/Pm3JDIkj9g

— John Tory (@JohnTory) June 1, 2020

The city of Toronto raised the rainbow and transgender flags at City Hall on Monday, to proclaim the beginning of Pride Month. Tory was joined by Councillor Kristyn Wong-Tam (Ward 13 Toronto Centre) and a representative of Pride Toronto to raise the flags together.

After the city of Toronto announced that all major events through to the month of June were cancelled, the Toronto Pride team had to modify festivities to create a virtual experience.

Festivities are officially taking place from June 1 to 28. This virtual experience will provide a new and creative way to celebrate and showcase the history, courage and diversity of the LGBTQ2S+ community, while also ensuring the safety of Toronto residents and proper social distancing.

Here’s a list of online events you should definitely attend:

FEEYASS! With Club Quarantine

This Virtual Pride Launch Party will require you to dress to impress! The event will take you back to warehouse parties, old school glam, FEEEYAS drag queens and avant-garde spectators. DJ Sandy Duperval and DJ Vjuan Allure will be playing house anthems and ballroom beats. There will also be an extra special performance from Ballroom diva Kevin Aviance. Remember: anything goes!

When: June 1, 2020
Time: 9:00 pm to 11:59 pm

Train with an Olympian

This event will take place every single week for the entire month of June. It kicks off with a one-hour conversation with a queer or allied Olympian. After the convo, you may have to move around your living room to participate in an exclusive at-home work out. This week’s Olympian is Marnie Mcbean. Mcbean has made two Olympic appearances and has secured four medals in rowing. Get ready to sweat!

When: June 3, 2020
Time: 12:30 pm to 1:30 pm

Digital Drag Bingo

Get your bingo dabbers ready! Register HERE to receive your digital bingo card and then play along while the fabulous Divin Darlin hosts. Prizes will be given out from local queer and trans vendors and makers.

When: June 11, 2020
Time: 8:00 pm to 10:00 pm

Dyke Rally [March]

The Toronto Dyke March is a grassroots event that allows all identified dykes to create a political and visible space. In past years, women and trans people of the community have taken to the streets of downtown Toronto to celebrate, but this year you will be able to connect on Zoom and participate.

When: June 27
Time: 11 am to 12:30 am

Drag Ball with Brooke Lynn Hytes

The Toronto drag community is unstoppable. This event will showcase Canada’s drag artists and will also include the BIGGEST drag surprise. Drag queens and kings have enhanced their performances during quarantine to give the fiercest performances from home. Toronto Pride will also be putting on an all-local Drag ball that will include a drag hour every Saturday of the month.

When: June 27
Time: 7 pm to 9:30 pm

Online Pride Parade

Toronto’s Pride Parade is one of the largest in North America. This year, the procession begins simply by turning on your TV. CTV and CP24 will be covering the event, so be sure to tune in and stand loud and proud.

When: June 28
Time: 2 to 4:30 pm