Peterborough-Nogojiwanong Pride Week returns September 18 to 27 with a call for community solidarity and a schedule of celebrations ranging from a youth prom and film screening to outdoor activities, drag performances, and the annual Pride Parade.
Now in its 24th year, the community-organized celebration has adopted “Woven Together” as its 2026 theme, emphasizing the connections between 2SLGBTQIA+ people locally and globally and the strength that comes from supporting one another.
“When any part of our community is under attack, we are all called to respond,” organizers state in a media release. “It is up to us and our allies to stand united, support each other, and not leave anyone behind.”
Pride Week will officially launch with a flag raising at Peterborough City Hall at 500 George Street North on Friday, September 18 at 12:15 p.m. Deputy mayor Gary Baldwin will read the Pride Week proclamation before the progressive Pride flag is raised on the south lawn.
“Peterborough-Nogojiwanong Pride Week is an opportunity to celebrate the 2SLGBTQIA+ community,” says mayor Jeff Leal in a city media release. “This year’s theme, Woven Together, speaks to the connections we share and the importance of supporting one another.”
“Pride Week is also a reminder that discrimination, including homophobia and transphobia, continues to affect people in our community. By working together, we can make Peterborough a place where everyone is treated with respect and acceptance.”
The annual celebration has grown considerably since 2003, when a group of local residents organized Peterborough’s first Gay Pride parade and then-mayor Sylvia Sutherland proclaimed September 13 as Gay Pride Day. Around 300 people participated in that inaugural parade.
Twenty-three years later, organizers say plans include more than 30 community-run gatherings where 2SLGBTQIA+ people can connect, share ideas, speak their minds, support one another, and have fun in an accepting environment. Participants are welcome to wear masks to help protect themselves and others.
The annual Pride Parade takes place on Saturday, September 26, with participants gathering at City Hall at 12:30 p.m. before the parade begins at approximately 1 p.m.
The route heads south on George Street and east along King Street to Millennium Park, crossing the rainbow crosswalk at King and Water streets along the way. Pride in the Park follows at approximately 1:30 p.m. and continues until 5:30 p.m., with performances, community booths, vendors, food, and activities for families.
Road closures and parking restrictions will be in effect around City Hall and along the parade route. Drivers should allow extra time when travelling downtown on parade day.
The previous evening, the Trans March will bring trans, non-binary, gender-diverse, and gender-questioning people together with friends, family, and allies at Millennium Park. Sign-making begins at 5 p.m. on Friday, September 25, followed by a rally at 5:45 p.m. and the march at 6 p.m. Pizza and community social time will follow.
Other highlights include ReFrame Film Festival’s Pride screening at the Peterborough Public Library on Friday, September 18. The program pairs the landmark 1968 drag documentary The Queen and Diane Obomsawin’s award-winning animated short I Like Girls, with local drag performer Sahira the Djinn introducing the films and participating in a post-screening Q&A. Admission is pay what you can.
On Sunday, September 20, the Art Gallery of Peterborough will host a free Pride edition of its Family Sunday program from 1 to 4 p.m. Visitors of all ages can weave rainbow flags, decorate rainbow ornaments, and contribute to a community weaving project. No registration is required to participate.
The celebration also extends beyond the city, with a Baxter Creek Pride Hike in Millbrook on Saturday, September 19 and the sixth annual Lakefield Pride Picnic at Cenotaph Park on Sunday, September 20.
With most activities taking place in or near downtown Peterborough, Pride organizers and the Peterborough Downtown Business Improvement Area (DBIA) are encouraging businesses to decorate and display welcoming messages. Residents are also invited to decorate their homes in support of the celebration.
“Everyone should be able to live and love as they wish with dignity and without fear,” organizers state.
Organizers credit the annual celebration to the work of volunteers and support from the city, community organizations, unions, local businesses, and the broader community.
The following events are listed in Peterborough-Nogojiwanong Pride’s community calendar for September 18 to 27. Event details may change, and some activities require advance registration. For updates, visit www.peterboroughpride.ca.
Friday, September 18
Pride Week Flag Raising
When: Friday, September 18, 12:15 p.m.
Where: City Hall (500 George St. N., Peterborough)
Deputy mayor Gary Baldwin will read the proclamation of Pride Week before the progressive Pride flag is raised on the south lawn of City Hall.
Show your Pride on the Airwaves
When: Friday, September 18, 1 – 7 p.m.
Where: www.trentradio.ca, 92.7 CFFF FM, or on Cogeco channel 287
Tune in to Trent Radio for community-produced programming celebrating Pride in Peterborough. Anyone interested in producing a 30-minute program featuring music, an interview, poetry, or another format can contact Jill Staveley at jstaveley@trentradio.ca. Technical support is available.
ReFrame Film Festival Pride Screening
When: Friday, September 18, 7 – 9:30 p.m. (doors open at 6:30 p.m.)
Where: Peterborough Public Library (345 Aylmer St. N., Peterborough)
Cost: Pay what you can
A screening of the landmark 1968 drag documentary The Queen with Diane Obomsawin’s award-winning animated short I Like Girls. Local drag performer Sahira the Djinn will introduce the films and participate in reflections and a post-screening Q&A. Snacks and light refreshments will be available. For details and to reserve a seat, visit reframefilmfestival.ca/reframe-pride-screening/.
Femme Fatales – a Sapphic Pride Kick-Off
When: Friday, September 18, 10 p.m. until closing
Where: Pig’s Ear Tavern (144 Brock St., Peterborough)
Cost: Free, but tips for performers appreciated
Sapphic-themed bingo will feature performances between games by K-Stew, Sahira the Djinn, and My Fair Lady. Sapphic describes women and woman-aligned or non-binary people attracted to women. For more information, contact Kano at kaylayoki@gmail.com.
Saturday, September 19
Roxxy Waters presents: A Tie Dye Toga Workshop
When: Saturday, September 19, 8 a.m. – 2 p.m.
Where: Quaker Foods City Square (215 Charlotte St., Peterborough)
Cost: $5 or pay what you can
Roxxy Waters, The Flamingo House, and Funky Buddha Collection host a tie-dye workshop during the Peterborough Regional Farmers Market. Bring a white bedsheet to make a toga or another white or lightly coloured fabric item. Sheets and other items will also be available. Participants can wear their creations to Boba + Toga on September 25.
Baxter Creek Pride Hike
When: Saturday, September 19, 9:30 – 11:30 a.m.
Where: Parking lot at the south end of Distillery Street, downtown Millbrook
Cost: Free
Join the Oak Ridges Trail Association for a six-kilometre hike along Baxter Creek on the Millbrook Valley Trails. Some hiking experience is required for uneven terrain and hills; the route is not accessible. Wear sturdy footwear and weather-appropriate clothing and bring water. A liability waiver is required. RSVP at least 24 hours ahead to Scott at scottcecchin@gmail.com and indicate whether you need a ride or can offer one.
The Gayla Queer Prom
When: Saturday, September 19, 2 – 8 p.m. (dance begins at 5 p.m.)
Where: Emmanuel United Church, formerly George Street United Church (534 George St. N., Peterborough)
Cost: Free
For ages 16 to 22, this accessible prom features drag performers, hairstylists, free formal wear, food, photography, a DJ, and community resources. A low-sensory space and noise-cancelling earplugs will be available. Wear whatever feels comfortable. A limited number of local bus passes are available by contacting corina@parn.ca.
Frottage – Tea Dance
When: Saturday, September 19, 3 – 8 p.m.
Where: The Theatre on King (171 King St., Peterborough; entrance at rear)
Cost: $15 or pay what you can; cash at the door
A dance party for men, masculine genderqueer people, and allies, featuring DJ Jeffary Fudge and a mix of disco, pop, dance, electronic music, and yacht rock remixes. Respectful guests are welcome and nobody will be turned away for lack of funds.
Queer Cars & Coffee
When: Saturday, September 19, 3 – 6 p.m.
Where: East City Bowl (325 Burnham St., Peterborough)
Cost: Free
A casual gathering for local car and motorcycle enthusiasts, with coffee and doughnuts. Daily drivers, modified vehicles, and bikes are welcome. The outdoor event takes place rain or shine, so dress for the weather.
Drag Bingo at Cork & Bean
When: Saturday, September 19, Doors open at 7 p.m.; show begins at 8 p.m.
Where: Cork & Bean (382 George St. N., Peterborough)
Cost: $20
An evening of bingo, drag performances, and audience participation for queer community members and allies aged 19 and older. Seating is limited. Reserve tickets through Eventbrite or contact kalikontour@gmail.com for information.
Sunday, September 20
Pride Worship Service at St. James United
When: Sunday, September 20, 10:30 a.m.
Where: St. James United Church (221 Romaine St., Peterborough), with an online option
Guest minister Rev. Don Uhryniw leads a service celebrating the diversity and love of 2SLGBTQ+ neighbours. The building is accessible. Watch online at www.twitch.tv/stjamesunited.
Lakefield Pride Picnic
When: Sunday, September 20, 11 a.m. – 4 p.m.
Where: Cenotaph Park (2 Queen St., Lakefield)
Cost: Free
The sixth annual family-friendly picnic features live music, performers, children’s activities, food, crafts, and community booths. The announced lineup includes singer-songwriter Taylor Abrahamse and drag performer and storyteller Betty Baker. For information, visit lakefieldpride.com.
Art Gallery Family Sunday Pride Edition
When: Sunday, September 20, 1 – 4 p.m.
Where: Art Gallery of Peterborough (250 Crescent St., Peterborough)
Cost: Free
Drop in for all-ages art activities celebrating identity, belonging, and community. Visitors can weave rainbow flags, decorate rainbow ornaments, and contribute to a community weaving project. No registration is required.
Pride Skate
When: Sunday, September 20, 6 – 7 p.m.
Where: Healthy Planet Arena (911 Monaghan Rd., Peterborough)
Cost: By donation
An inclusive public skate welcomes experienced skaters and those returning to the ice. Donations support the Queer Hockey league. Helmets are encouraged. For more information, email prideoutsideptbo@gmail.com.
Hot Flashes & Happy Endings: Queer Women, Sex & Pleasure Through Menopause
When: Sunday, September 20, 7 – 8:30 p.m.
Where: Stag Shop (1840 Lansdowne St. W., Unit 16, Peterborough)
Acceptance and Stag Shop present a workshop for queer women navigating perimenopause, menopause, and beyond, with conversation about intimacy, changing bodies, and sexual pleasure. Bring a chair as seating is limited. Register through the online form or email hello@acceptanceclinic.ca for information.
Tuesday, September 22
Drop-in Confidential Routine STBBI Testing
When: Tuesday, September 22, 9 – 11 a.m.
Where: Sexual Health Clinic (185 King St., Peterborough)
Cost: Free
Drop in for confidential routine testing for sexually transmitted and blood-borne infections with a public health nurse. The clinic is for people without symptoms and includes testing for chlamydia, gonorrhea, syphilis, HIV, and hepatitis. Anonymous and rapid testing are not available. For more information, call 1-844-575-4567 or visit Lakelands Public Health’s sexual health clinics page.
PTBO Rainbow Diner’s Club Pride Dinner
When: Tuesday, September 22, From 5:30 p.m.; trivia at 8 p.m.
Where: The Social Pub (295 George St. N., Peterborough)
Cost: Purchase meals from the menu
An evening of dinner, trivia, games, and prizes, with no fixed dinner time. Capacity is limited to 50 people. Reserve a free place through Eventbrite by 3 p.m. on Saturday, September 19. Donations to Pflag Canada Peterborough are welcome. The venue and washrooms are accessible, including an all-gender washroom.
Pride Euchre Gathering
When: Tuesday, September 22, 6:30 p.m.; no new games after 9 p.m.
Where: Dreams of Beans (141 Charlotte St., Peterborough)
Cost: Free
Euchre players and people interested in trying the game are invited to an evening of cards. Cards are provided and friends are welcome. Participants are welcome to wear masks.
Wednesday, September 23
LGBTQ+ Boardgame Meet Up
When: Wednesday, September 23, 6 – 11 p.m.
Where: 261 George St. N., Peterborough
Cost: $8
Board Together PTBO hosts an evening of board games and connection with other queer people. No board game experience is necessary. For more information, visit @boardtogetherptbo on Instagram or email boardtogetherptbo@gmail.com.
Pflag Peterborough’s Pride Week Social
When: Wednesday, September 23, 7 p.m.
Where: Sadleir House (751 George St. N., Peterborough)
Cost: Free
Meet new people or reconnect with familiar faces over free pizza and giveaways. Individuals, families, and friends are welcome. Pflag Peterborough provides peer support, education, and resources about sexual and gender diversity. For more information, visit pflagcanada.ca/chapter/pflag-peterborough/.
Learn to Play Gaelic Football
When: Wednesday, September 23, 7 p.m.
Where: Holy Cross Secondary School (1355 Lansdowne St. W., Peterborough)
Cost: Free
Peterborough GAA and Pride Outside PTBO introduce adults aged 18 and older to Gaelic football through a warm-up, basic skills, and games. No experience is needed. Wear comfortable clothing and closed-toe shoes, preferably cleats, and bring water. Participants must sign a waiver. There is no washroom access at the school.
Thursday, September 24
Drop-in Confidential Routine STBBI Testing
When: Thursday, September 24, 9 – 11 a.m.
Where: Sexual Health Clinic (185 King St., Peterborough)
Cost: Free
Drop in for confidential routine testing for sexually transmitted and blood-borne infections with a public health nurse. The clinic is for people without symptoms and includes testing for chlamydia, gonorrhea, syphilis, HIV, and hepatitis. Anonymous and rapid testing are not available. For more information, call 1-844-575-4567 or visit Lakelands Public Health’s sexual health clinics page.
Rainbow Youth Drop-in – Pride Edition
When: Thursday, September 24, 3:30 – 5:30 p.m.
Where: PARN Rainbow Room (60 Hunter St. E., second floor, Peterborough)
Cost: Free
2SLGBTQIA+ youth aged 13 to 23 can drop in for crafts, books and zines, button-making, snacks, and safer-sex supplies and information. The side entrance has an elevator; ring the doorbell on the second floor. Gender-neutral washrooms include an accessible washroom. Contact PARN at 705-749-9110 or corina@parn.ca for details.
Queers and Cars
When: Thursday, September 24, 5 – 8 p.m.
Where: Jackson Park parking lot (entrance at 630 Parkhill Rd. W. and Monaghan Road, Peterborough)
Cost: Free
A drop-in gathering for queer car enthusiasts to share their vehicles and learn from one another. All levels of automotive knowledge and all kinds of vehicles are welcome. Snacks are provided. Participants will be invited to provide vehicle and contact information on arrival. Contact Payton at payton.muro@gmail.com for details.
Queer Pilates with Nicole Malbeuf
When: Thursday, September 24, 5:30 p.m. (50-minute class)
Where: East City Studio/PTBO Pole Dancing (370B Burnham St., Peterborough)
Cost: $20 or pay what you can for a drop-in class
A contemporary Pilates class for adults aged 18 and older in a queer-friendly, gender-affirming space that also welcomes allies. No experience is required and yoga mats are provided. Wear comfortable clothing and bring water. The studio is not wheelchair accessible. Register at trellisarts.ca/instruction.
Toke & Stroke
When: Thursday, September 24, 6 p.m.
Where: Dreams of Beans (141 Charlotte St., Peterborough)
Cost: $30 or pay what you can
A painting event for adults aged 19 and older with Sahira, MiZZ MiSHAL, and Pu Ssay. Tickets include painting supplies and a pre-roll. For details and tickets, visit simpli.events/e/tokeandstroke2026.
“B” Loud! Community Art Event
When: Thursday, September 24, 6 – 8 p.m.
Where: Peterborough Community Health Centre Gathering Space (360 George St. N., Unit 64, Peterborough)
Cost: Free
An art and community gathering for people aged 14 and older who identify within the Bi+/MSPEC community, including bisexual, pansexual, and other people attracted to more than one gender. Participants can explore visibility and bi-erasure through art and enjoy a free meal. Registration is required and limited to 15 participants. Transportation assistance may be available. Register online or contact bloudptbo@gmail.com.
Pflag Peterborough Monthly Online Peer Support
When: Thursday, September 24, 7 – 9 p.m.
Where: Online; registration required
A peer-support meeting for 2SLGBTQIA+ adults, people questioning their sexual orientation or gender identity, and parents, caregivers, and family members seeking to support queer and trans loved ones. Register through the contact form at pflagcanada.ca/chapter/pflag-peterborough/ to receive joining information. Newcomers are welcome.
P(RIDE) Pride Glow Ride
When: Thursday, September 24, Gather at 7 p.m.; one-hour ride begins at 7:30 p.m.
Where: Quaker Foods City Square (215 Charlotte St., Peterborough)
A music-filled bicycle ride through downtown Peterborough and East City celebrates the local cycling community. All ages and identities, including allies, are welcome. Helmets and lights are required to participate.
Pride and Poetry – Spoken Word Performance and Open Mic
When: Thursday, September 24, Doors and sign-up at 7 p.m.; show at 7:30 p.m.
Where: Dreams of Beans (141 Charlotte St., Peterborough)
Cost: $5 – $10 sliding scale; nobody turned away for lack of funds
Peterborough Poetry Slam presents a double feature and open mic celebrating queer love and language. Featured performers are to be announced. Masks are encouraged and will be available. The venue is physically accessible. For information or accessibility questions, email peterboroughpoetryslam@gmail.com.
Drag Bingo at The Social Pub: Pride Edition
When: Thursday, September 24, 7:30 p.m.
Where: The Social Pub (295 George St. N., Peterborough)
Cost: $5
Audrina Venti hosts a Pride edition of drag bingo with local performers Miss DivaLicious and Madeleine Minogue.
Friday, September 25
Writing Queer Futures
When: Friday, September 25, 2 – 5 p.m.
Where: Artspace (378 Aylmer St. N., Peterborough)
Cost: Free
Coming Out Rainbows Arts Collective hosts a science-fiction writing workshop with nine-time Prix Aurora Award winner Derek Newman-Stille. Participants will imagine the future of queer identity and existence while exploring creativity and world-building. No writing experience is necessary. For information, email dereknewmanstille@gmail.com.
Roxxy Waters presents: Boba + Toga: A Pride Toga Dance Party and Market
When: Friday, September 25, 4 – 8 p.m.
Where: Milk + Tea (360 George St. N., Suite 57, Peterborough)
Cost: Free
DJs, dancing, and a mini vendor market bring the Roxxy Waters Pride series to a close. Wear colourful outfits or a tie-dyed toga. A tie-dye workshop will also take place behind Milk + Tea on the day of the event. Follow @iamroxxywaters on Instagram for details.
Trans March
When: Friday, September 25, 5 – 7:30 p.m.; march begins at 6 p.m.
Where: Millennium Park, grassy area beside the Silver Bean Cafe (130 King St., Peterborough)
Cost: Free
Trans, non-binary, gender-diverse, and gender-questioning people, along with friends, family, and allies, are invited to gather for sign-making at 5 p.m. and a rally at 5:45 p.m. The march begins at 6 p.m., followed by pizza and social time from approximately 6:30 to 7:30 p.m. This is an all-ages, alcohol- and drug-free event.
Morley Gray Sex & Wellness Event
When: Friday, September 25, 5 – 10 p.m.
Where: Peterborough Lions Community Centre (347 Burnham St., Peterborough)
Cost: Free
An inclusive gathering with guest speakers and opportunities to ask questions and discuss sex, sexual health, wellness, and relationships.
Woven Together With a Swim
When: Friday, September 25, 7:45 – 8:45 p.m.
Where: Peterborough Sport & Wellness Centre (775 Brealey Dr., Peterborough)
Cost: Free
An inclusive community swim presented in collaboration with PARN, Trans Peer Outreach, Peterborough Community Health Centre, and Nogojiwanong Friendship Centre. Swim, use the waterslide, and meet other community members. No RSVP is required.
Saturday, September 26
Drag Queen Story Time with Betty Baker
When: Saturday, September 26, 10:30 – 11 a.m.
Where: Peterborough Public Library, Story Corner (345 Aylmer St. N., Peterborough)
Cost: Free
Betty Baker shares stories celebrating diversity, inclusion, and respect. The program is for children aged three to eight with a caregiver; siblings are welcome. No registration is required. For details, visit the library event page.
Pride Parade
When: Saturday, September 26, Gather at 12:30 p.m.; parade begins at 1 p.m.
Where: City Hall (500 George St. N., Peterborough), ending at Millennium Park
Bring friends, chosen family, and your Pride for the approximately one-kilometre parade through downtown Peterborough. The route crosses the rainbow crosswalk at King and Water streets before reaching Millennium Park. For information and group or float registration, visit peterboroughpride.ca/parade/.
Pride in the Park
When: Saturday, September 26, Approximately 1:30 – 5:30 p.m.
Where: Millennium Park (130 King St., Peterborough)
Following the parade, enjoy music and drag performances, family-friendly DJ selections, community information booths, vendors, and food from the East Peterborough Lions Club. Activities include Betty Baker’s Drag Story Time and a family and children’s area with a quiet space. A beer and beverage area will be in the Euphoria Spa parking lot. For details, visit peterboroughpride.ca/pride-in-the-park/.
Bi+ Pride Trivia Night
When: Saturday, September 26, 6 – 9 p.m.; trivia begins at 7 p.m.
Where: The Vine (165 Sherbrooke St., Peterborough)
Cost: Free
Mix and mingle with members of the bisexual+ community over regular and Pride-themed trivia, food, drinks, and prizes from local businesses. Friends, loved ones, and trivia partners are welcome. Reserve a table through @thevine_ptbo on Instagram or in person during opening hours.
UFP Queer Coffeehouse
When: Saturday, September 26, 6 – 8 p.m.
Where: Dreams of Beans (141 Charlotte St., Peterborough)
Cost: Free; purchase food and beverages from the menu
An accessible, alcohol-free evening for 2SLGBTQIA+ seniors and allies, with live music by Joslyn Burford. For information, email uu.ptbo@gmail.com.
Pride After Dark – Official Pride Afterparty
When: Saturday, September 26, Doors open at 8:30 p.m.; programming from 9 p.m.
Where: The Venue (286 George St. N., Peterborough)
Cost: $20 early bird; $25 or pay what you can at the door
For ages 19 and older, the official afterparty features a ballroom and drag showcase by the Kiki House of Greta Constantine and Fleur Fantasie at 9:30 p.m., followed at 10 p.m. by local performers Betty Baker, Lexy Mooore, Opal Essence, Sahira the Djinn, Kurt Cumstain, Audrina Venti, Pu Saay, and Madeleine Minogue. DJ Isla leads the dance party at 11 p.m. The 9 p.m. program is to be announced. Tickets and details are at peterboroughpride.ca/pride-after-dark/.
Sunday, September 27
Nogo Pride Queer Ecology Hike
When: Sunday, September 27, 10 a.m. – noon
Where: Jackson Park (610 Parkhill Rd. W., Peterborough)
Cost: Free
A family-friendly hike combines storytelling, land-based learning, and conversation about connections with the natural world. The route covers approximately two to three kilometres over two hours, mostly on the main crushed-gravel trail. Register at queerecology.ca or contact Z at just.queerecology@gmail.com for information.
Unitarian Pride Service
When: Sunday, September 27, 10 a.m.
Where: Unitarian Fellowship of Peterborough (775 Weller St., Peterborough)
The Unitarian Fellowship hosts a service of music and reflection celebrating Pride. Everyone is welcome. For information, email uu.ptbo.minister@gmail.com.
Anglican Pride Sunday Worship
When: Sunday, September 27, 10 a.m.
Where: St. John the Evangelist Anglican Church (99 Brock St., Peterborough)
An inclusive worship service in the Anglican liturgical tradition welcomes 2SLGBTQIA+ people and allies to celebrate love and diversity. Refreshments follow in the parish hall. For information, email rector@stjohnspeterborough.ca or call 705-745-7624, extension 34.
Queer Artisan Bazaar
When: Sunday, September 27, 11 a.m. – 4 p.m.
Where: The Vine (165 Sherbrooke St., Peterborough)
Cost: Free
A market featuring local queer artisans, live music, on-site tattoos, food, beverages, and family activities takes place inside The Vine and outside in the plaza. Everyone is welcome. For information, visit www.thevineptbo.com or email thevineptbo@gmail.com.
They Come Together T(ea) Party
When: Sunday, September 27, 4 – 6 p.m.
Where: 580 Cameron St., Peterborough
Cost: Free
Indigenous, Two-Spirit/Indigiqueer people, family, friends, and community members are invited to honour Two-Spirit and LGBTQ+ relations with food, crafts, music, door prizes, and drag. Children aged 13 and younger must be accompanied by a guardian. Register by September 21 by contacting Jess at 705-775-0387, extension 235, or cgdc@nogofc.ca.
