The Pride London Festival is on track to being the city's largest celebration of the LGBT community yet.
The ten-day festival kicks off on Thursday with the 25th annual Pride Art Show at the ARTS Project. The show is one of the longest running Pride art shows in North America and is one of 30 Pride events scheduled during the festival. Other events on tap include Pride Comedy Night at Yuk Yuks on July 15 and 16, the Pride Open Mic Night at Aeolian Hall July 20, and the three-day festival in Victoria Park July 22-24.
"This year, Pride is more important than ever considering what took place in Orlando and I think people have really stepped up to the plate to show their support for Pride and the LGBT community," says Chad Callander, vice president of the Pride London Festival.
The nightclub shooting in Orlando, Florida last month claimed the lives of 49 people. Callander says the victims will be honoured during London's celebrations.
"At the finale after the Pride parade we will be doing a moment of silence," says Callander. "As well we do have a group walking in the parade to pay tribute to Orlando. There will be 49 individuals to pay tribute to each of the 49 people who lost their lives."
There are roughly 100 entries for the annual Pride Parade on July 24, that's up from 60 five years ago.
"A lot of groups are really getting into the spirit, building floats and putting in vehicles," says Callander. "We will see some marchers but will also have lots for the kids and families to see."
Politicians from all levels of government are expected to march in the parade.
Following the parade, the festival wraps up with closing speeches.
London police will be flying a Pride Flag at police headquarters for the first time in the services history. It will be erected at 10am on Thursday.
For more information or a full list of events visit www.pridelondon.ca.