"The 2016 celebration of Pride in Central Alberta was a first for many things," shares director, Joel Graham. The Central Alberta Pride Society was gifted their first two sets of Rainbow Crosswalks from the City of Red Deer but, much to the community’s dismay, the crosswalks were vandalized with skid marks within hours of being unveiled to the public. This unfortunate event didn’t set too much of a damper on events though: as always, the community rises; finds the positives; and embraces the good.

This year’s events marked many firsts: the first time Mayor Tara Veer had been able to make it to Proclamation; the first time a drag queen has burst out of the doors singing; and our provincial dignitaries surprised us by leading Red Deer's first ever Pride Parade. There is an abundance of things to be thankful for, and gifts to bask in—these events are just naming a few.

The Central Alberta Pride Society hosted 13 events over eight days as a part of Central Alberta Pride Week 2016. Many events were family friendly and welcomed all ages to join. The week started out with a Fruit Float down the Red Deer River on Saturday August 13^th.

"Sunday was celebrated with a worship service at Gatez United Church by Rev. Jeff Rock, followed by a free barbecue in Red Deer's City Hall Park as a part of our family friendly Mayoral Proclamation, which included balloon animals, face painting and a bouncy castle."

Monday’s festivities were partnered with Fairy Tales to present Red Deer Fairy Tales Queer Film Duo. The films In The Turn and Beyond Gay were both presented.

Tuesday, the Revera Rainbow Tea was celebrated, and the drag queen world was introduced to the senior population of Central Alberta with two shows.

Wednesday offered a hilarious adult comedy night, and Thursday featured "The Dirrty Show!", local talent back from their Fringe tour. The community also celebrated with their full families and participated in some RAINBOWling. Friday, pride-goers went to "Get White Trashed", Live Improv by Bullskit, at the Scott Block Theatre.

Saturday saw the penultimate event: drag queens invaded the Red Deer Legion! Sunday closed the week with a worship service at St. Andrews United Church in Lacombe.

It was a year to be remembered; new friendships were created and old bonds sparked back to life. As a friendly reminder, just because summer pride festivities are over, don’t let that end your year of celebrating just yet!

On September 24th, from 3pm to 9:20pm, Alberta Prairie Railway Excursions will take its last run of the Steam Engine for the season, and it will be one to remember. The Rainbow Express departs from Settler, and passengers will get to enjoy live entertainment with cash bar while en route to the historical town of Big Valley. As dusk sets on the rails, a spectacular fireworks show will be displayed on both sides of the train (transportation to and from Settler not provided). Tickets are $100 per person, and can be purchased up until September 1st. Book yours by calling 587.877.5498.