Join Us for the 2024 Toronto Pride Parade!

We’re excited to invite you to join the Humanists Community at this year's Toronto Pride Parade! Here’s everything you need to know to participate and feel confident about joining us:

Sign-up for the event 🖊️:

  • You can register on Meetup to let us know if you're coming and stay updated on the event. This will also help us plan and ensure we bring enough supplies.

Meeting Spot 👥

  • Location: Keg Mansion, 515 Jarvis Street

  • Look for: The Happy Humanist flag near The Keg Mansion

 

Parade Details 🏳️‍🌈

  • Date: June 30, 2024

  • Time: 14:00 to 18:00

    • Expect 1-2 hours of waiting time followed by 1 hour of marching

    • More information to come!

How to Get There

  • Public Transit 🚌:

    • Use Presto cards or buy tickets in advance to avoid lineups

    • Closest TTC Station: Parliament (preferred) or Wellesley (can be busy!)

    • Leave plenty of time for travel as around 200,000 people are expected

  • Coming with bike 🚲:

    • Bike Share Programs: Toronto also offers bike-sharing programs, which can be a great way to navigate around the city during the event.

  • Coming by car 🚗:

    • Pre-Book Parking:

      • It's highly recommended to book your parking spot in advance through services like SpotHero. This will help you secure convenient and affordable parking before you arrive​​.

    • Parking Locations:

      • Public Parking Garages: There are several public parking garages around the Church-Wellesley Village, where the main events are held.

      • Hotel Parking: If you're staying at a hotel, inquire about their parking facilities. Many hotels in downtown Toronto offer parking, though it may be limited during Pride weekend​​.

    • Additional Tips:

      • Arrive Early: To avoid the busiest times and secure parking, try to arrive early.

      • Be Prepared for Traffic: Expect significant traffic delays and road closures around the event area.

  • Mobility Scooter Request 🛵

    • Contact us at hatcoord@gmail.com before June 15th if you need a mobility scooter provided free of charge for you.

What to Bring and Wear

  • Clothing 👚: Dress comfortably and colorfully to celebrate pride! Consider wearing breathable, lightweight fabrics as it might be hot.

  • Footwear 👟: Wear comfortable shoes suitable for walking and standing for extended periods.

  • Sun Protection 👒: Don’t forget sunscreen, sunglasses, and a hat to protect yourself from the sun.

  • Hydration 💧: Bring a reusable water bottle to stay hydrated throughout the day.

  • Weather Preparedness ☂️: Check the weather forecast and bring a raincoat or umbrella if needed.

Sensory Considerations

  • Ear Protection 👂 : Bring earplugs or noise-canceling headphones if you are sensitive to loud noises.

  • Quiet Space 🤫: Identify or inquire about quiet areas to retreat to if you need a break from the crowd and noise. Note that once inside the parade it’s hard to get out, but not impossible, there are some spots made for this purpose.

  • Comfort Items 🧸: Bring any comfort items that help you feel at ease in crowded or stimulating environments.

Safety and Awareness

  • Crowd Awareness 👨‍👩‍👧‍👦: Be mindful of the large crowd and keep personal belongings secure. Thieves love this kind of event, no phone or wallet in your back pockets!!

  • Health Precautions 👩‍🔬: If you’re feeling unwell, it’s best to stay home to ensure everyone’s safety. While the event is outside you can wear a mask if it makes you feel safer.

  • Emergency Contact 🆘: Save Richard’s number (9O5-5I6-0639) on your phone for any urgent needs.

Additional Tips

  • Name Tags 📛: Print one or make your own to help everyone get acquainted. We are working on a label design for the group, stay tuned!

  • General Information 🙋: Visit the official pride website for additional information.

We can't wait to march together and celebrate pride in our vibrant community. See you there!