Pride festivities kick off amid tightened security as Fierté Montreál marks 20th anniversary
Posted July 31, 2026 11:43 am.
Last Updated July 31, 2026 11:44 am.
Pride festivities kicked off Friday as the organizer Fierté Montreál celebrates its 20th anniversary.
Organizers have tightened the security for this year’s festivities as it comes on the heels of a deadly attack at Berlin Pride.
Among the heightened measures, vehicle barriers will be installed at intersections along the pedestrianized section of Sainte-Catherine Street East in the Village, as well as along René-Lévesque Boulevard during the Pride parade to prevent unauthorized vehicles from entering the route.
From drag shows and music shows to commemoration of the city’s 2SLGBTQ+ history, queer literature and an artisanal market, the annual event includes a variety of programming in and around the Village.
On Friday, an art exhibit titled “The coming out of Montreal’s gay village” will showcase the political, cultural and social history of the Village between 1974 to 1990.
Artists and performers like Calamine, Velma Jones, J4de, Monib, DJ Sam Pangina Heals, Rita Baga among others will take the stage through the 10-day festivities.
The Pride Parade will take place on Aug. 9 starting at 1 p.m. along the Réné-Lévesque Boulevard downtown ending with a show at the Olympic Park Esplanade.
More information about the artists and the schedule can be found on the Fierté Montréal website.
