This year, North Durham Pride 2025 celebrates the powerful theme “Rooted in Unity,” emphasizing the deep interconnection between our three townships—Scugog, Uxbridge, and Brock. These communities are woven together by a shared history of resilience, acceptance, and support for the 2SLGBTQI+ community, which runs deep through generations. Our townships may have distinct identities, but they are united by common values and a collective commitment to inclusion. By standing together, pooling our resources, and fostering open dialogue, we strengthen the bonds that hold us as a community.
“Rooted in Unity” reminds us that our diversity is our strength, and that our interconnectedness enables us to create a more welcoming and equitable future for all. Together, we are stronger—thriving through shared history, mutual support, and a united vision for the future of North Durham.
Why do we need North Durham Pride?
The values that shape rural and urban communities can be significantly different due to various factors, such as economic opportunities, social norms, and cultural traditions. Typically, rural areas prioritize a sense of community and connection to the land, while urban areas tend to emphasize individualism and career advancement. These varying values can impact the experiences and perspectives of 2SLGBTQI+ individuals living in these areas, making it challenging to ensure equal representation and acceptance for all.
Nevertheless, promoting inclusivity and understanding in rural areas can help establish a more equitable and accepting culture. By challenging harmful stereotypes, showcasing diverse voices and experiences, and addressing the unique challenges faced by 2SLGBTQI+ individuals in rural areas, we can work towards creating a more just and welcoming environment in North Durham. Studies have shown that visibility of 2SLGBTQI+ individuals and issues leads to increased acceptance and support within our society. Pride events are not just celebrations; they are also powerful platforms for advocacy. They provide opportunities for activism and lobbying for changes in policies and laws that impact the 2SLGBTQI+ community. North Durham Pride organizes 3 Pride events during the summer to showcase each township. We hope each event can bring people in the “neighbourhood” (so to speak) and also out of town visitors together. Not everyone wants a big, busy Pride and you may find the smaller events like ours in rural settings more to your taste. Don’t forget, Pride is for everyone, not just the 2SLGBTQI+ community, but for our allies and family members, so please take the opportunity to attend a festival near you
Please join us at one or more of our events!
Scugog Pride Celebration
Saturday, June 21, 2025
9:00 a.m. to 4:00 p.m.
175 Water Street, Port Perry, ON
Join us on June 21st, 2025, in the picturesque town of Port Perry, as we celebrate our 2025 North Durham Pride season, “Rooted in Unity”. We will be next door to the Farmer’s Market in the park by the lake. Such a picturesque setting to celebrate Pride in. Community booths, crafts and games for the kids, bouncy castle, live entertainment and music. Head up to Old Flame at 2 pm for Drag Show and cold drinks. Don’t forget the After Party at Two Blokes Cider at 7 pm.
Third Annual North Durham Pride March
Saturday, June 21, 2025
11:00 a.m. to 11:30 a.m.
279 Queen St #273, Port Perry, ON
Join us for the third annual Pride march in Port Perry as we celebrate Pride in North Durham! We invite you to march alongside us in this momentous event.
Brock Township Pride Celebration
Saturday, July 12, 2025
9:00 a.m. to 3:00 p.m.
Beaverton Harbour, Beaverton, ON
Join us at the Harbour in Beaverton for fun in the park. Crafts, bubbles and fishing for the kids (no license needed if under 18 years old or over 65). Live entertainment, food and music. Enjoy the splash pad while you’re there and bring your kayaks, canoes or paddleboards if you wish to go out on the water. Zoo To You will be also be joining us. They are a traveling educational event that is designed to both educate and entertain all ages and audiences. They provide a hands on interactive event with such animals as reptiles, mammals and exotics. Their animals are well socialized, tame, friendly and handled on a daily basis. You will have the opportunity to see, hold, interact with the animals while learning fun facts about them. Please take a moment to visit the Wishing Tower sculpture also located at the Harbour. It is a welcoming icon, created by artist Ron Baird, establishing a gathering space and commemorating the original indigenous peoples and the 200th anniversary of the arrival of Scottish settlers who established Beaverton.
Uxbridge Township Pride Celebration
Saturday, August 9, 2025
10:00 a.m. – 9:00 p.m.
Downtown Uxbridge, ON
Join us in downtown Uxbridge and experience all the town has to offer. Pride booths, community booths, live entertainment, music and crafts for kids, as well as an interactive experience with Zoo To You and their friendly animals attending. We have partnered with Wixen Bridge Restaurant for great food and drinks.
Pride events have become a significant part of the cultural landscape around the world. They are more than just celebrations; they are powerful symbols of the ongoing fight for equality and the recognition of the 2SLGBTQI+ community. Understanding the importance of Pride helps us appreciate the progress made, acknowledge the challenges that remain, and support a future where everyone can live openly and authentically.
Pride is more than just a celebration; it is a powerful symbol of the ongoing fight for equality, acceptance, and recognition for 2SLGBTQ+ community. By understanding and supporting the importance of Pride, we contribute to a future where everyone can live openly and authentically, free from discrimination and fear.
Diversity within the 2SLGBTQI+ community is immense, encompassing a wide range of sexual orientations, gender identities, and expressions. Pride events highlight this diversity through colourful parades, festivals, and performances. These events offer a safe space for everyone to celebrate who they are without fear of judgment or discrimination. They also serve as an opportunity for allies to show their support and solidarity.
Please visit their website at northdurhampride.ca for more information on the upcoming events this summer.