Shine bright at Capital Pride 2026

This August, Ottawa is invited to come together for Capital Pride, a celebration of community, inclusion and self-expression. This year’s theme, Together, We Shine, highlights the people, stories and voices that make Ottawa-Gatineau’s 2SLGBTQQIA+ community vibrant, resilient and proud.

Inspired by the symbol of a spotlight, the theme is a reminder that when people feel seen, supported and connected, communities grow stronger. Every volunteer, artist, activist, ally, organization, business and resident who takes part in the celebrations helps create safer spaces where everyone belongs.

Capital Pride offers plenty of opportunities to celebrate, learn and connect throughout the festival. Whether you are a longtime Pride participant or attending for the first time, there are activities for all ages to enjoy. Check out some of the events that will be happening this month.

Don’t miss the parade

 Capital Pride would not be complete without the Capital Pride Parade. This annual event brings together community groups, performers, businesses and residents in a vibrant display of pride, creativity and solidarity. Expect music, high energy, colourful outfits and plenty of opportunities to cheer on participants as they make their way through the city.

City Pride

The City will mark the occasion with two Pride ceremonies held at City Hall and the Mary Pitt Centre, recognizing the importance of visibility, inclusion and support for Ottawa’s diverse communities. In addition, Pride flags will be displayed at many City facilities across Ottawa, showing the City’s ongoing commitment to fostering safer and inclusive spaces for all.

Celebrating Pride with the Ottawa Public Library

To mark Capital Pride, the Ottawa Public Library is offering a range of inclusive programs at various branches and on various dates to celebrate community, creativity and self-expression. Highlights include Pride-themed teen socials, crafts and button-making activities, as well as a special bilingual Drag Storytime in the Park with local drag artist Cyril Cinder. Explore Ottawa Public Library’s pride programs and events here.

Step into Ottawa’s queer history

The City’s Ottawa Stops Hate Together initiative partnered with local activist, Morgan Mercury of Fairy Cowboy Tours to deliver Queer History of Ottawa Tours. These engaging walking tours took participants through Centretown, sharing stories, landmarks and moments that helped shape Ottawa’s 2SLGBTQQIA+ history. While the tours with Ottawa Stops Hate Together have taken place, there and still opportunities to catch tours with Morgan Mercury this month., Find more information here[BA1] .

Visit a national symbol of resilience

While you’re out celebrating, consider stopping by Thunderhead, Canada’s National 2SLGBTQQIA+ Monument, opening mid-August. Located near Wellington Street and the Portage Bridge, the public art installation honours those impacted by the LGBT Purge while recognizing the strength, resilience and contributions of queer and trans communities. It’s a meaningful place for reflection and a reminder of the progress made.

Why does Ottawa celebrate Pride in August?

While many Pride celebrations take place in June, Ottawa’s Pride festival is held in August for a reason. The timing reflects an important moment in Canada’s 2SLGBTQQIA+ history.

In August 1971, activists from Ottawa and across Canada gathered on Parliament Hill for the historic “We Demand” demonstration, the country’s first large-scale public protest for gay rights. The rally called on the federal government to address discrimination and advance equal rights for 2SLGBTQQIA+ people, helping lay the foundation for decades of progress and advocacy. 

Today, Capital Pride continues that legacy by bringing people together to celebrate, learn, advocate and connect. Holding Pride in August honours Ottawa’s unique place in Canada’s 2SLGBTQQIA+ history while creating space for joy, visibility and community in the nation’s capital.

Together, we shine

At a time when 2SLGBTQQIA+ communities continue to face discrimination and challenges around the world, Capital Pride reminds us that visibility matters, community matters and standing together matters.

This August, join friends, neighbours and visitors from across the region to celebrate the joy of being yourself and the power of coming together. Because when we come together, we shine. 

Capital Pride runs from August 22 to 30, with the parade taking place on Sunday, August 30 1 to 4 pm. For more information about the festivities, visit the Capital Pride website.