Picture this: you’re surrounded by stunning mountains, breathing in crisp autumn air, all while celebrating diversity and queerness in one of the most breathtaking spots in Canada. That’s right, Banff Pride is back for 10 days of drag, disco, and daring fun in Banff National Park! From October 4-14, get ready to feel the love, share the vibes, and connect with the 2SLGBTQIA+ community and allies for an unforgettable Pride festival in the great outdoors.

Whether you’re a seasoned Banff adventurer or a first-time visitor, Banff Pride 2024 is pulling out all the stops for this year’s celebration. Think drag queens, fierce live performances, and empowering discussions—all set against the backdrop of some of the most gorgeous scenery on Earth. If you’re looking for a Pride experience that combines the best of queer culture with the thrill of outdoor adventure, then honey, Banff Pride is the place to be this fall!

Get your best gear ready—whether that’s your hiking boots, glittery outfits, or both!—because Banff Pride is not just about partying. It’s also a chance to explore the Rockies, get outdoorsy, and enjoy the full spectrum of fall colors. Let’s dive into the must-do events and what you need to know to make the most of this incredible celebration.

Kicking Off With Pride: Flag Raising & Pride March

Banff Pride kicks off in style with the Pride March and flag-raising ceremony on October 4. Picture yourself walking down Banff Avenue, rainbow flags flying high, with a community of like-minded folks from all walks of life. There’s no better way to dive into this vibrant festival than marching through the heart of Banff, celebrating inclusivity and diversity with pride.

After the march, get ready for the festival’s colorful lineup, including drag brunches, a fabulous Pride Market, and live performances from some of Canada’s biggest queer stars. If you’ve been craving that extra dose of fabulousness, this is where you’ll get it. Plus, keep your eyes peeled for local talent, who are bound to blow you away with their incredible performances.

Drag, Disco, and Divas: A Queer Lineup to Remember

Let’s talk queens! Banff Pride is bringing a powerhouse lineup of 2SLGBTQIA+ performers, including icons like Canada’s Drag Race stars Pythia and Scarlett Bobo. But that’s just the tip of the iceberg, baby! Get ready to gag over the legendary Vancouver drag artist Jaylene Tyme and Calgary’s own drag queen and comedian Karla Marx.

The star-studded performances aren’t just limited to one day—oh no. You’ve got 10 whole days to soak in all the drag fabulousness, from daytime brunches to after-dark disco parties. Whether you’re sipping on mimosas at the drag brunch or dancing your heart out under the stars, Banff Pride is making sure you’re entertained from sunrise to sunset.

Mountaintop Pride: The Highest Elevation Pride in Canada

If you’re ready for something that takes your breath away, look no further than Mountaintop Pride. This event takes place at the Banff Gondola, offering the highest elevation Pride celebration in Canada. Just imagine celebrating queer joy with panoramic views of the Rockies, surrounded by the beauty of Sulphur Mountain. It’s pure magic.

Mountaintop Pride isn’t just about the views, though. There’s a full day of all-ages programming with a marketplace, live music, and interactive booths to keep the fun going. Make sure to grab your tickets early because this event is a highlight of Banff Pride and will leave you feeling on top of the world—literally.

Pride Market: Queer Artisans and Makers

Looking to add a little queer flair to your life? Stop by the Pride Market on October 12 at the historic Mason Hall. You’ll find local queer artisans and makers showcasing their fabulous creations. Whether you’re after a unique piece of art, a handcrafted item, or something sparkly to take home, this market is where you’ll want to be. Plus, supporting queer artists while enjoying the vibrant atmosphere is a win-win!

Outdoor Adventures and Alpine Vibes

Now, you can’t come to Banff and not take advantage of the stunning outdoor experiences, right? Banff Pride is the perfect time to explore everything the Rockies have to offer. Whether you’re into sunrise hikes, cycling along scenic roadways, or paddling through pristine waters, there’s something for everyone. The fall colors will be in full effect, creating an epic backdrop for all your adventures.

And when you’ve had your fill of the great outdoors, head into town for some après-adventure action. New hot spots like Banff Social and the Fat Ox are serving up Pride-inspired cocktails and desserts as part of the “Taste the Rainbow” experience, with proceeds supporting 2SLGBTQIA+ organizations. Sip, savor, and support a good cause while soaking in those mountain views.

Stay and Play: Banff Pride Hotel Deals

Why not make a weekend (or 10 days!) out of it? With all the fabulous events happening, you’ll want to stay close to the action. Luckily, Banff Lodging Co. is offering 20% off stays at several hotels right in the heart of Banff, making it easy to enjoy both the nightlife and the natural beauty of the area. Trust us, you won’t want to miss out on these deals, especially when the nightlife keeps rolling long after the sun goes down.

Why Banff Pride Is a Must-Attend Event

Banff Pride is more than just a festival; it’s a celebration of love, diversity, and inclusion set in one of the most breathtaking locations on Earth. Whether you’re connecting with queer creators at the market, hiking through the Rockies, or watching jaw-dropping performances from drag legends, there’s truly something for everyone. The entire town lights up with rainbow flags and positive energy, making it an unforgettable experience that will leave you feeling inspired and full of pride.

Plan your trip to Banff with the help of Banff Lake Louise Tourism.

Share Your Banff Pride Experience

Ready to experience all that Banff Pride 2024 has to offer? Whether you’re hiking, partying, or just soaking in the vibes, we want to hear all about it! Share your Banff Pride stories and join the conversation by leaving a comment below. Let’s celebrate together and make this year’s Banff Pride one to remember.