‘120 entries’; Pride London Parade’s grand finale of week-long Pride London Festival

The second largest pride parade in Ontario is the "most colourful day of the year."

It’s billed as “London’s most colourful day of the year.”

The Pride London Parade begins Sunday at noon.

“We have 120 entries and we’re anticipating between 6,000 to 8,000 people participating,” said Robyn Hodgson, president of Pride London Festival.

“It is the second largest pride parade in Ontario.”

Sponsored by Canada Life, the parade will return to staging in the Western Fair District parking lot after being forced onto Queen’s Ave due to construction the past couple of years.

“We’re able to go from the fairgrounds, as we always have,” said Hodgson.

“We’ll deviate onto Queen’s Avenue and then come all the way over to Waterloo in front of City Hall on Dufferin and then arrive at the park and everybody can join back in our festivities.”

Downtown London already has many streets closed due to construction, and Sunday afternoon there will be more closures for the annual Pride London Parade.

The City of London says there will be temporary rolling road closures from 12p.m. to 4 p.m.

Richmond Street from Central Avenue to Oxford Street will be closed 8 a.m. to 4 p.m.

They are asking people to plan ahead.

The Grand Marshal of the parade is Sista Patricia Derouin.

The 72 year old is described as a ‘fierce and beloved elder” who is know in the community as one of the Drag Story Time Guardians.

After the parade, the Festival will continue until the final act at 7 p.m. Sunday night.

Saturday featured entertainment in the park, including Drag Storytime, Drag shows, a performance by the Original Kids Theatre, yoga and music.

“It’s all about inclusivity,” said Hodgson.

“We are trying to be open, inclusive to all genders, all races, all sexualities. It is just about showing our appreciation for all members of our community.”