This June, the heart of Orillia & Lake Country transforms into a vibrant sea of rainbows and radical inclusion. Lake Country Pride is back for its annual celebration on Friday, June 12, and Saturday, June 13, bringing two days of visibility, joy, and community connection to the sunshine city of Orillia.
What started as a grassroots movement of local volunteers hosting small meetups – like book clubs and bowling nights – has blossomed into a cornerstone event for the region. Lake Country Pride fills a vital need for 2SLGBTQIA+ residents and allies to feel seen and celebrated right here at home. Whether you are a local or a visitor, this weekend offers the perfect opportunity to experience the welcoming spirit of all that Downtown Orillia has to offer.
Friday, June 12: Pride on the Patio
The festivities kick off Friday evening with Pride on the Patio, an outdoor street festival that captures the energy of summer in the city. Mississaga Street (between Peter and Matchedash) will be closed to traffic, making way for extended restaurant patios, local vendors, and a main stage featuring live music and electrifying drag performances.
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6:00 PM: Event officially opens with local vendors and community booths.
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6:00 PM – 10:00 PM: Enjoy extended patio dining, live entertainment, and community vibes.
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10:00 PM: Event wrap-up.
Friday, June 12: Pride Yoga
- 5:00 PM – 6:00 PM: Enjoy a yoga class taught by Sarah Melody at Sol to Soul Yoga Aruyveda at a cost of $20.
Saturday, June 13: Pride March & Community Gathering
Saturday is all about participation and visibility. The day begins with creative preparation and culminates in a powerful march through the historic downtown core to the scenic shores of Lake Couchiching.
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11:00 AM – 1:00 PM: Button and sign making (2nd Floor, Orillia Public Library).
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1:00 PM: Opening remarks and guest speakers in the Library Courtyard.
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1:15 PM – 1:30 PM: The Pride March begins through the downtown core.
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2:00 PM: The March arrives at the Large Pavilion at Terry Fox Circle.
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2:00 PM – 4:00 PM: Community gathering at the waterfront featuring performances, speakers, and resources.
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5:00 PM: Official event conclusion.
Why Local Pride Matters
Operating in a smaller community makes the impact of Lake Country Pride deeply personal. Supported by Orillia & Lake Country Tourism and the Downtown Orillia BIA, this event proves that Pride belongs everywhere—from big cities to lakeside towns. It is a celebration of how far the community has come and a reminder of the importance of building a region where everyone feels a true sense of belonging.
Other Events Happening During Pride Month
Friday, June 12 2026: Pride On The Patio Queer Elopements at Rustica Orillia
Tie the knot or renew your vows as a part of Lake Country Pride’s 2026 Pride Festival!
AWAKE Ceremony and Lake Country Pride have teamed up to offer elopements for queer couples this Friday June 12th 2026.
For a fee of $150+hst, you will snag a spot to get hitched this Pride month, or renew your vows! You bring your marriage license and we handle the rest.
Friday June 12 2026: Racks and Rainbows at Brewery Bay & Couchiching Brewery
Racks & Rainbows Drag Show hosted by Justin Cider Dreams and Enya Dreams
Doors open at 7pm Show starts at 8pm $20 tickets | 18+ event
Hosted by Justin Cider Dreams & Enya Dreams
Friday, June 19 & Saturday June 20 2026: MAT Presents the 4th Annual Queer Cabaret
Join Mariposa Arts Theatre for THREE show-stopping cabaret-style performances, featuring local drag artists, singers, poets & more! We promise you an experience full of entertainment, celebration, and community. 19+
June and beyond at Icebreaker Ice Cream Shop at Bush’s Marina
We will be featuring Kawartha Ice Cream’s Moon Mist for Pride all summer long at the Icebreaker Ice Cream Shop at Bush’s Marina at Rawley Resort in Port Severn, Ontario
Join us this June to march, dance, and celebrate! For more information on how to support or participate, visit lakecountrypride.ca.
Why not make a weekend of it – Where to STAY
