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A Celebration of Love, Diversity, and Community Support

Updated: Jul 18, 2023

Annapolis Royal Pride Weekend: A Celebration of Love, Diversity, and Community Support


Welcome to Annapolis Royal, a small town with a big heart and an incredible amount of LGBTQ pride! This past weekend, our community came together to celebrate Annapolis Royal Pride, a three-day event filled with love, laughter, and memorable moments. With a population of just over five hundred residents, our town proved that size doesn't matter when it comes to showing support for the LGBTQIA community.


This was my first year to celebrate - and I had a grand time. I am a wee bit sunburned though!



From the very beginning, Annapolis Royal showed its unwavering support for Pride. On Friday, the LGBTQIA flag was proudly raised, symbolising our town's commitment to inclusivity and acceptance. The Town Crier, known for her enthusiastic announcements, lent her voice to every event, reminding us of the importance of celebrating diversity.



Our regular Saturday Market took on a special twist during Pride Weekend. Extra vendors joined us, offering a variety of handmade and third-party Pride items for sale. It was heartwarming to see the community coming together to showcase their support through creative and meaningful products. Mrs. Milligan sold me the sweetest flag brooch, I am so happy with it.



One of the most exciting aspects of Annapolis Royal Pride was the overwhelming support from sponsors. It was truly inspiring to witness small communities rallying behind this celebration of love. The collective effort and generosity of these sponsors demonstrated that embracing diversity is not only the right thing to do but also the path to a stronger, more vibrant community.


Unforgettable Entertainment: Shayla Shenanigans and Drag Show Extravaganza

The highlight of the weekend was undoubtedly the Drag Queen show hosted by the hilarious Shayla Shenanigans. Shayla, a renowned Drag Queen Comedian, brought her quick wit, comedic charm, and love for laughter to the stage. Joined by a talented cast, including the legendary Rouge Fatale, the show had the audience laughing up a storm. This extravaganza showcased the incredible drag talent of Atlantic Canada and left us wanting more.


Family Friendly

Annapolis Royal Pride also provided a space for families to celebrate together. The Little Tykes Family Celebration, made possible with the support of Parks Canada, was a joyous event filled with delicious cake, lively music, crafts, and an obstacle course. The amazing Milo The Clown entertained both kids and parents with captivating storytime sessions. The enchanting costume parade added an extra dose of magic to the day, making memories that will last a lifetime.



Inclusivity and equality were in full swing at the inclusive Pride Swim. We dove headfirst into a vibrant celebration of diversity, wearing our brightest colours and making a splash. This event was open to all, emphasising the importance of unity and acceptance in our community. Our true colours shone brightly as we swam, laughed, and created unforgettable memories together.


A Glorious Closing and Community Support

To wrap up Annapolis Royal Pride 2023, we had the pleasure of reliving the glory of the cult classic film, "The Adventures of Priscilla, Queen of the Desert." Fabulous attire was encouraged, and attendees showed up in their most glamorous outfits. The Official Closing Event not only provided an evening of entertainment but also supported Annapolis Royal Pride, with ticket proceeds going towards this important cause.


Annapolis Royal Pride also served as an opportunity to give back to our community. A community BBQ was organised to raise funds for the Firehall, demonstrating how Pride celebrations can contribute to local causes. Our esteemed pride organisers did an outstanding job of bringing the community together for a delicious barbecue while supporting a vital community institution.


Embracing Love, Unity, and Faith: The Interfaith Service


Annapolis Royal Pride Weekend wasn't just about celebrating love and diversity—it also provided an inclusive space for people of different faiths to come together. The Interfaith Service united individuals from various religious backgrounds, emphasising the power of love and acceptance to bridge gaps and create stronger communities.


As we reflect on the incredible weekend we experienced, we are reminded that love knows no boundaries. Annapolis Royal, with its population of 491 residents, proved that community support, inclusivity, and pride can thrive regardless of size. Our town has set an example for others to follow, showing that embracing diversity not only enriches lives but also strengthens the fabric of our society.


Subscribe to our newsletter for updates on future events, inspiring stories, and ways you can make a difference. Join us in celebrating love, unity, and acceptance. Together, we can create a world where everyone feels valued and embraced.





For more information about Annapolis Royal Pride and upcoming events, visit Annapolis Royal Pride website and follow them on Facebook.


Remember, love is love, and together we can build a brighter future for all.


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