Image: Sunshine greeted the 2022 Pride Festival / File / PML

By Fraser Valley Today Staff

annual event

Chilliwack Pride Festival prepares for July date

Jun 2, 2024 | 6:00 AM

CHILLIWACK — The Chilliwack Pride Festival is set to take over Central Village in downtown Chilliwack. With the theme “Every Heart Matters,” this year’s festival promises a colourful day filled with over 150 local vendors, service providers, activities, food trucks, and live entertainment on July 21 from 10 a.m. to 4 p.m.

Presented by The Book Man in partnership with Willow Reichelt, the festival promises to focus on the importance of belonging and inclusivity. The theme, inspired by Gracie Kelly through T’emexw teachings, aims to create a welcoming space where everyone feels valued. Coast Salish artist Bonny Graham’s artwork represents the festival’s message of inclusivity, diversity, and Indigenous community roots.

The free, family-friendly event is open to all ages, cultures, gender identities, and sexual orientations. Since 2019, the festival has provided a safe and inclusive environment, and a comfortable experience for everyone with a variety of activities and resources.

This year’s festival will include a Kid Zone with Carnival-style games and face painting. Live music and drag performances are planned on the main stage throughout the day.

Food trucks will be on site to feed any hungry visitors to the festival and adults will be able to enjoy some local beers and wines.

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Through the sponsorship of Envision Financial, this year’s event is also building on accessibility by featuring a Quiet Room, closed captioning, ASL interpretation at the main stage, mobility devices, mental health support, and accessible gender-inclusive washrooms.

Organizers say the 2024 festival wouldn’t be possible without the support of a number of Chilliwack businesses.