Toronto Pride Parade 2024

 As we gathered along Yonge Street, anticipation buzzed in the air. The long wait only seemed to heighten the excitement. Finally, the distant roar of motorcycles signaled the parade’s approach. Just as the first riders came into view, the skies opened up and a brief, gentle rain began to fall.

It was as if the heavens themselves were heralding the parade’s arrival. The rain, however, was short-lived, and its timing felt almost symbolic—a nod to the hardships faced by the LGBTQ+ community and the resilience that has seen them through.

 A Day to Remember: Toronto Pride Parade 2024

This past Sunday, June 30th, the streets of Toronto came alive with vibrant colors, joyful music, and an overwhelming sense of unity and celebration. The annual Pride Parade, a staple of the city’s cultural calendar, once again took over Yonge Street, drawing thousands of participants and spectators alike. 

This year’s parade was not just a spectacle; it was a poignant reminder of the progress the movement has made and the challenges that still lie ahead.

The parade itself was nothing short of spectacular. It was bigger and better than anything I had ever seen before, touching the lives of everyone in attendance. The diversity and inclusivity on display were truly inspiring. There were contingents representing gay fathers, Seniors Pride, Two-Spirit people, HIV support groups, and organizations working to stop AIDS and end religious-based homophobia. 

There were also powerful messages of solidarity with the Iranian and Jewish LGBTQ+ communities.

Among the many highlights was the presence of Toronto’s Mayor, Olivia Chow, who proudly showed her support for Pride. Her participation underscored the city's commitment to embracing and celebrating diversity in all its forms.

For over two hours, the parade captivated us with its vibrant floats, energetic performances, and the palpable sense of community spirit. Although there was a brief delay
towards the end due to demonstrations, the police presence ensured that everything ran smoothly. Their efforts were greatly appreciated and allowed the celebration to continue without major disruption.

#Pride2024 #TorontoPride #LoveIsLove

17th Annual Woofstock!

 Every year in early summer, Toronto, Ontario Canada holds it's Annual Woofstock Festival.  Into it's 17th year in North America it has earned it's place in show as North America's Largest Dog Festival!

My husband and I don't own a dog (we have always had a least 2 cats), but I still couldn't resist to come to the event to take a peek at all the canine breeds attached by leash to their beloved owners.

Woofstock® (the registered name lol), has already set up tents of vendors selling all kinds of diffent goods and services for your pooch .  Now if you're a dog owner, you might know Benny Bully's Pet Treats - they have placed themselves as the Official Dog treat of  Woofstock.  This year in 2024, they landed (via space ship?) for a weekend celebration that goes beyond the ordinary on June 22 & 23, 2024 from 10am-7pm, Sun: 10am-5pm.

Much to our dismay, it costs $20 per person, even if you don't come with a dog, and just want to blog the dogs :)  I couldn't see any point in that, so we stuck around for an hour or so to watch others entering the Woodbine Park (located at the corner of Queen Street East, and Northern Dancer Blvd).  This is not to be confused with Woodbine Beach on the other side of the Lakeshore Blvd near Lake Ontario.  I say that because my husband insisted he knew where he was going and after 30 minutes of his stubbornness, he finally realized he was indeed in the wrong spot

By not paying $20 I kick myself now of course, but at the time it was early and not much was happening - but if you do want to check this out in 2025, be sure to bring your furry friend (s) for later in the day where they can engage in active sports like Benny Bully’s Bark 'n' Dash Lure Course and off-leash playtime. 

There are several contests as well - The Stupid Dog Trick, Paws and Personalities, Best Costume, and Mr. & Ms. Canine Canada Pageant (which I heard the beginning of).  

I took some photos of some of the contestants!

There were fashion shows on the agenda, yoga sessions, races like Puppy Prowl, Frenchie Flash, Weiner Dogs, Running of the Pugs, Rescue Run, and Chihuahua Chase. Engage in Woofstock Talks, including the much-anticipated Doggy Dating – Single Mingle Mixer with Toronto Dating Hub LOL!

I overheard some people talking about an obstacle course that was set up which will entail <-- okay that was bad, obstacle courses which let your dog sniff out treats!  Sort of like an Easter Egg Hunt, Barn style.

Something adorable as well, even if you are not into alcohol, you can indulge in delicious food yourself from Food Truck culture and relax at the Woofstock® Licensed Lounge" with BarDog wine, Tito’s Hand-made Vodka, and Wooftinis.  

So for $20, you get a pretty busy schedule of memory-making experiences included in the ticket price, there’s no better way to celebrate the bond between you and your pooch. I suggest you check this event next year, bring your own pooch or borrow a pooch for the day. 

www.woofstock.ca.