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Tofino Pride Is the Surfside Celebration Every Queer Canadian Should Experience

by | June 18, 2025 | Time 8 mins

Every once in a while, a Pride event comes along that feels more like a soul-nourishing getaway than a glitter-splashed party—and Tofino Pride is exactly that. Held in the dreamy surf town of Tofino, British Columbia, this coastal celebration proves that Pride doesn’t always have to be loud to be powerful. It’s intimate, refreshingly outdoorsy, and set against one of the most breathtaking backdrops in the country. Whether you’re a drag devotee or a beach bum, there’s a little something for everyone. Tofino Pride is where unapologetic queer joy meets West Coast chill.

A lively crowd gathers on the beach during Tofino Pride, waving Progress Pride and Canadian rainbow flags. Participants in colorful outfits dance and celebrate by the ocean, with cloudy skies and coastal rock formations in the background.

As Canadian travelers rethink where they spend their pink dollars, especially in light of mounting anti-Canadian rhetoric from American leaders, there’s a growing appetite to support local. From Trump’s aggressive tariffs to his veiled threats of annexing Canada as the so-called “51st state,” many Canadians are choosing to protest with their wallets—boycotting U.S. travel and choosing staycations that uplift their own communities. Pride events like this one are directly benefiting. Tofino Pride is emerging as a refreshing alternative, where Canadians come together in solidarity, celebration, and surf shorts.

A scenic aerial view of the Tofino coastline at low tide, featuring small forested islands, winding tidal flats, and tranquil blue water. The lush greenery contrasts beautifully with the coastal mountains in the background under a clear morning sky.

From the sandy stretch of Chesterman Beach to the cozy charm of Hotel Zed, this event feels more like a weekend retreat than a mainstream Pride blowout. The energy is authentic, local, and filled with heart. If you’ve ever dreamed of swapping hot pavement for soft sand, or neon lights for roaring bonfires and drag on the beach, keep reading—Tofino Pride may just become your new favorite queer tradition.

Aerial view of Hotel Zed Tofino, a vibrant, retro-inspired hotel surrounded by dense forest on Vancouver Island. The main building and colorful annex are nestled among tall evergreens, with visible outdoor amenities and a welcoming entrance.

A West Coast Pride Like No Other

Tofino Pride ran Saturday, June 14 and Sunday, June 15 this year, attracting guests from across British Columbia and beyond—including Calgary, the Okanagan, and Vancouver. It’s easy to see why. The weekend’s festivities were perfectly matched with the region’s laid-back attitude and awe-inspiring natural beauty. Even the high overcast skies couldn’t dim the energy of the event.

A lively group of people march down a rural road surrounded by forest during Tofino Pride. Leading the parade, two men carry a colorful “Tofino Pride” banner while another waves a large Progress Pride flag. Participants cheer and wave various LGBTQ+ flags in celebration.

The celebration officially kicked off on Saturday afternoon at 3:00 p.m. when a colorful Pride march stepped off from Hotel Zed Tofino. The route followed the Pacific Rim Highway’s paved multi-use path all the way to Chesterman Beach. It was a grassroots procession in every sense: family-friendly, intimate, and spirited. As the marchers strutted, rolled, and danced along the path, they were met with a chorus of car honks, waving cyclists, and cheers from pedestrians. This wasn’t some big-budget parade—it was a community coming together, with love and visibility leading the way.

Two drag performers pose joyfully on a sandy beach during Tofino Pride, wearing colorful, eye-catching outfits. Behind them, a Progress Pride flag with the intersex circle waves in the ocean breeze. Both queens smile brightly, radiating Pride spirit.

When the group arrived at the beach, drag queens greeted them like sun-drenched royalty. After a group photo by the water, the procession made its way back to Hotel Zed. The entire march took about 45 minutes, proving that a short walk in a small town can still leave a big impact.

A large, joyful group of people pose together on a sandy beach during Tofino Pride, holding rainbow flags and a colorful “Tofino Pride” banner. Various LGBTQ+ flags, including the Progress Pride flag, intersex flag, and Canadian rainbow maple leaf flag, are proudly displayed. The ocean and small islands appear in the background.

Celebrating With Music, Drag, and Queer Joy

What followed the march was a feel-good festival and vendor village hosted on the colorful grounds of Hotel Zed. The energy carried on as local and visiting entertainers lit up the afternoon. Hayden Roth, a Tofino-based musician with a soulful voice and heartfelt lyrics, kicked things off with acoustic realness that drew in the crowd.

Hayden Roth performs live while playing an acoustic guitar and singing into a microphone. They are seated in front of a rainbow-colored backdrop with a large, cube-shaped art piece painted in bright Pride flag colors. A laptop covered in stickers rests nearby.

Vancouver’s beloved pianist and singer-songwriter Matthew Presidente followed, delivering a set filled with glam rock energy and queer anthems. Known for his theatrical piano-pop and long-time presence in Vancouver’s LGBTQ music scene, Matthew’s performance was both nostalgic and fresh—an ode to Pride and authenticity.

Musician Matthew Presidente performs live at the Tofino Pride festival, singing into a microphone while playing a Nord keyboard. Dressed in a sheer black shirt, patterned shorts, and sunglasses, he gestures to the crowd with one arm. A colorful vintage station wagon is parked behind him.

The show shifted into drag territory with performances by two Victoria-based queens, Woofie and Eddi-licious. These two brought charisma, uniqueness, nerve, and seaside glamour. Eddi-licious brought out their fierce non-binary power with powerhouse numbers and cheeky sass. Woofie, is more than a fierce queen—he’s also a leading theatre director in Victoria, blending dramatic instincts with high-camp perfection. Together, their performances blurred the line between theater and drag, and the crowd was absolutely living for it.

Drag performers Woofie and Eddi-licious dazzle the crowd during a lively performance at the Tofino Pride festival. Surrounded by cheering spectators, rainbow flags, and flashing cameras, the duo struts confidently—Woofie in a glittery dress and pink sunglasses, and Eddi-licious in a bold red fringed outfit.

The vendor village featured locally crafted goods—from bouquets of wildflowers to handmade jewelry and vintage finds. Families strolled through the booths, couples sipped iced coffees, and everyone soaked in the inclusive atmosphere. It was accessibility done right: outdoor, open to all ages, and brimming with queer joy.

Shoppers explore the Vendor Village at the Tofino Pride Festival, browsing handmade goods, accessories, and crafts under white market tents. Rainbow bunting and Pride flags decorate the booths, creating a festive and inclusive atmosphere. Vendors and attendees chat and browse in colorful, casual attire.

As part of its commitment to sex-positive messaging and harm reduction, HomoCulture handed out limited-edition branded ONE Condoms during the festival. It was a cheeky but essential reminder that Pride is about community, celebration, and taking care of each other.

HomoCulture was giving away limited edition, HomoCulture branded ONE Condoms at the Tofino Pride Festival. A retro-style desk is decorated with rainbow and Progress Pride flags, stacked tins of condoms, and a promotional sign. The festive setup includes vintage office items and Pride bunting.

Brunch, Surf, and More Drag? Yes, Please!

Sunday morning brought even more fabulousness with a sold-out drag brunch at Roar Tofino, the on-site restaurant at Hotel Zed. Guests indulged in a decadent mix of locally sourced fare and brunch cocktails while being treated to live performances from Vivian Vanderpuss, alongside Woofie and Eddi-licious.

Drag performers Vivian Vanderpuss, Eddi-licious, and Woofie pose together in full glam at the Tofino Pride drag brunch. Dressed in fabulous outfits and bold makeup, the trio stands in front of a restaurant kitchen, radiating confidence and charisma.

Vivian Vanderpuss, who made waves as a finalist on Season 3 of Canada’s Drag Race, was the star of the show. With her signature vintage-glam-meets-cat-lady persona, she served up humor, heart, and some fierce lip-syncs. A Victoria-based drag queen with a massive online following and unmatched stage presence, Vivian brought big-city sparkle to this small-town celebration.

Vivian Vanderpuss performs at the Tofino Pride drag brunch, strutting through the crowd in a glamorous blue and orange feathered outfit. Guests seated at tables cheer, smile, and film on their phones while enjoying brunch and drinks. Canadian bills are visible in the performer’s hand.

By mid-afternoon, the party wasn’t slowing down. Guests made their way to a casual après-surf drag show—a west coast twist on the classic afterparty. Cocktails, light bites, and even more drag kept the vibe going into the evening. It was campy, cozy, and uniquely Tofino.

Drag performer Woofie entertains a cheerful crowd at the Tofino Pride drag brunch, holding cash tips in the air with a big smile. Surrounded by delighted guests in a cozy restaurant setting, Woofie wears a retro-style outfit with dramatic makeup and jewelry.

A Destination That Welcomes Everyone

Tofino itself is a destination that queer travelers are falling in love with—for good reason. Perched on the western edge of Vancouver Island, it’s known for its dramatic coastlines, world-class surfing, storm watching, and abundant marine life. Nature lovers come for the whales, eagles, and ancient rainforests. Adventurers come for the waves, the kayaking, and the untouched beaches. But what makes it truly special is how inclusive and warm the community feels, especially during Pride.

Aerial view of Tofino, British Columbia, showcasing a stunning landscape of forested islands and inlets surrounded by the Pacific Ocean. The small coastal town is nestled among lush greenery and calm waters.

There’s a surprising (and growing) number of queer folks living in Tofino year-round. Artists, chefs, outdoor guides, and business owners are making their mark here, helping shape a welcoming, vibrant community. During Pride weekend, it felt like every rainbow flag flying from local storefronts was more than decoration—it was a real show of support.

A colorful set of rainbow windsocks sway in the breeze against a backdrop of green trees and blue sky during Tofino Pride. The vibrant decorations add a festive touch to the outdoor celebration.

Visitors looking for a low-key Pride experience away from the noise of big cities are discovering that Tofino offers an alternative. It’s a chance to connect with queer community while also disconnecting from digital chaos. Here, the parties come with ocean views, the drag comes with a side of sea breeze, and the queers wear wetsuits.

Hotel Zed: Pride in Action

At the center of it all is Hotel Zed Tofino, the official host and proud organizer of Tofino Pride. Owned by Accent Inns, Hotel Zed is more than a colorful place to stay—it’s a queer-friendly business that puts values into practice. From Pride flags flying out front to inclusive hiring practices, they’re all in.

This isn’t rainbow capitalism. Hotel Zed didn’t throw Tofino Pride for a photo op. They created it for their LGBTQ staff, their guests, and their community. They saw the gap, and they filled it with love, visibility, and action. Now, queer travelers are taking note and making Tofino Pride a must-attend summer tradition.

A wooden art car resembling a vintage VW van is reflected in the glass doors of Hotel Zed Tofino. A Progress Pride flag with an intersex symbol is displayed on the entrance, signaling the property's LGBTQ+ inclusivity. Lush greenery and hotel architecture are visible through the reflection.

The entire event was organized in collaboration with local creatives, performers, and vendors, proving that with the right vision, even small towns can host incredible, authentic queer events. And Hotel Zed is ready to keep the party going every year.

Planning your next summer adventure? Start with Hotel Zed Tofino. Book early—rooms for Pride weekend go fast, and this is one stay you’ll want locked down.

Aerial view of Hotel Zed Tofino, a colorful retro-themed hotel nestled in the lush forest of Vancouver Island, British Columbia. Surrounded by dense trees and coastal waters, the hotel stands out with its vibrant exterior and scenic mountain backdrop.

Canadian Pride on the Rise

There’s a bigger story here too. As political tensions rise and Canadian travelers become more vocal about boycotting U.S. destinations, Canadian Pride events are seeing a boost. The rhetoric coming from across the border—especially from Trump and his loud threats about Canada’s sovereignty—has pushed many Canadians to rethink their spending habits.

That pushback is real. Canadians are skipping Seattle and San Francisco and instead heading to places like Tofino, Montreal, and Thunder Bay. They’re shopping local, booking local, and spending their summer Pride budgets at home. It’s about more than politics—it’s about pride in who we are and where we live.

Interestingly, the trend isn’t just among Canadians. Many American LGBTQ travelers are now heading north to escape the divisive noise back home. They’re showing up at Canadian Pride events to reunite with their Canadian friends, enjoy safer spaces, and spend time in cities that celebrate queer identity with real heart.

A diverse group of people walk together down a rural road during Tofino Pride, including a person in a wheelchair and others holding flags and wearing rainbow-themed clothing. The group is surrounded by lush greenery, creating an inclusive and joyful atmosphere.

Meet the Tofino Pride Performers

The heart of Tofino Pride isn’t just in the beaches or the bonfires—it’s in the performers who bring it all to life. This year’s lineup included a dazzling range of queer talent from across British Columbia, each with their own distinct style and story. These are the artists who lit up the stage, turned brunch into a runway, and reminded us why queer art matters.

Hayden Roth

Tofino’s own Hayden Roth opened the weekend’s performances with a soulful acoustic set that captured the spirit of the coast. Their music blends gentle folk-pop with lyrics rooted in vulnerability and resilience. With a voice as smooth as driftwood and lyrics as honest as an ocean tide, Hayden is a shining example of why small-town talent deserves a big spotlight.

Musician Hayden Roth performs live on acoustic guitar in front of a seated outdoor audience during a Pride event. Colorful hats, rainbow attire, and festive decorations surround the crowd, with a decorated vintage station wagon and rainbow-themed props in the background.

Matthew Presidente

A fixture in Vancouver’s LGBTQ music scene, Matthew Presidente brought glam rock swagger and piano-pop flair to the stage at Hotel Zed. With multiple albums under his belt and a reputation for pushing queer narratives through music, Matthew’s set was both a celebration and a call to authenticity. His high-energy performance had toes tapping and fists pumping in the most fabulous way.

Matthew Presidente performs at the Tofino Pride festival, singing passionately while playing a Nord keyboard. Wearing a sheer black top, rainbow sequin shorts, sunglasses, and a statement necklace, he gestures expressively with one hand. A colorful Rubik’s cube-style speaker and parked cars are visible in the background.

Woofie

Woofie, the drag persona of Sean Burgundy, is a theatrical force of nature. Based in Victoria, Sean is a leading theater director who brings their artistic precision and dramatic instincts into every drag performance. Woofie’s numbers were packed with humor, camp, and impeccable timing, giving the crowd both laughs and lip-sync perfection. Watching Woofie is like seeing a Broadway show, only gayer—and with better wigs.

Drag performer Woofie captivates the audience with a microphone in hand during a Tofino Pride show, dressed in a sparkly black outfit with dramatic makeup and accessories. A colorful Rubik’s cube-style prop and a decorated vintage station wagon enhance the lively outdoor stage.

Eddi-licious

Eddi-licious, a Two-Spirit drag artist with over two decades of experience, brought depth and brilliance to Tofino Pride. Their drag artistry is non-binary, fusing tradition and innovation in ways that defy easy categorization. Eddi-licious doesn’t just perform—they embody drag as a cultural expression and spiritual practice. Their presence on stage was powerful, grounded, and unforgettable. Every move, every glance, every beat—they brought it all with intentionality and pride.

Drag performer Eddi-licious electrifies the runway in a vibrant bodysuit during a Tofino Pride outdoor show, strutting confidently between rows of seated guests. A decorated vintage station wagon and bold “Pride in Tofino” signage set the colorful backdrop.

Vivian Vanderpuss

Capping off the weekend with Sunday’s sold-out drag brunch was Vivian Vanderpuss, the charming and kooky queen who captured hearts as a finalist on Season 3 of Canada’s Drag Race. Vivian mixes old-school glamour with quirky, cat-lady charm, turning every moment into a spectacle. Based in Victoria, she’s known for turning brunches into events, and her Tofino set was no exception. Campy, polished, and heartfelt—Vivian brought big sparkle to this small surf town.

Drag queen Vivian Vanderpuss performs up close for a group of enthusiastic guests at the Tofino Pride drag brunch, wearing a vibrant orange mini dress with feathered accents. Guests smile and cheer from their table inside the cozy, art-filled restaurant.

Find More Photos from Tofino Pride

Check out the HomoCulture Facebook page where you will find over 100 photos from Tofino Pride 2025. Like, share, and tag people you know.

Plan Your Visit to Tofino Pride

Thinking about making Tofino Pride your summer getaway next year? Now’s the time to start planning. Hotel Zed will once again be the official host, and the rooms will go fast. Surf, whales, drag, and sunsets are waiting for you. Visit Hotel Zed Tofino to book your stay.

Tofino offers everything from beachcombing and hiking to fine dining and spa retreats. Plan to stay a few days before or after Pride to fully enjoy the destination. For visitor info, things to do, and help planning your stay, check out Tourism Tofino.

Your Thoughts?

Tofino Pride is proof that small towns can create big waves. Have you been to Tofino or another small-town Pride that surprised you? Share your thoughts, stories, and experiences in the comments—we’d love to hear from you.

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Brian Webb

Brian Webb

Author

Brian Webb is the founder and editor-in-chief of HomoCulture, a celebrated content creator, and winner of the prestigious Mr. Gay Canada – People’s Choice award. An avid traveler, Brian attends Pride events, festivals, street fairs, and LGBTQ friendly destinations through the HomoCulture Tour. He has developed a passion for discovering and sharing authentic lived experiences, educating about the LGBTQ community, and using both his photography and storytelling to produce inspiring content. Originally from the beautiful Okanagan Valley in the southern interior of British Columbia, Brian now lives in Vancouver, British Columbia. His personal interests include travel, photography, physical fitness, mixology, drag shows.

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