Toronto Gay Pride - Why Should I go?

[CanadianGuy]

Hey guys. So I have pretty much lived in the Greater Toronto Area for my whole life and I have never been to Pride (I have passed it before but never took part). I am slightly interested in it but at the same time I don't see the appeal. From what I have seen it just seems like a colourful orgy/ dance party in the middle of the street where gender lines are pretty blurred. Maybe I am just thinking of the parade from what I have seen on TV. What are some of the other events like? I just don't know a whole lot about it and I was wondering if you guys could help me out and tell me the appeal and what it is all about. I am just starting to come out slowly and not really care what others think of me anymore but I have never experienced any of the "gay scene" so I am not sure if this is a good place to start or what.
Thanks guys!

 

[954dude]

I'd love to go to a gay pride festival, never been to one. Doubt that a Saturday night club would be a great first experience. Toronto pride will be an eye-opener and enjoyable since you'll be around thousands. Go for it!

 

[CanadianGuy]

Ya that is what I am worried about, it being a little "too much" for me and getting completely turned off but I imagine that not all of the Pride events are so... flamboyant... or are they?

 

[CanadianGuy]

Who is Pretty Pete?

Oh I wasn't saying it was negative. I just don't think I would be comfortable in a flamboyant environment at this present time is all... but who knows.

 

[mega]

From what I have seen it just seems like a colourful orgy/ dance party in the middle of the street where gender lines are pretty blurred.

That sounds like a good reason to go right there.

Everybody here can give you their opinions on gay pride events, but until you go for yourself, you will never really know.

 

[EvilForce]

Ya that is what I am worried about, it being a little "too much" for me and getting completely turned off but I imagine that not all of the Pride events are so... flamboyant... or are they?

I think much of the uncomfortableness comes from your own unsettled issues about homosexuality. So much of the "I hate fems" is self-loathing. Sure, they may not be your thing, but when you are comfortable with yourself, it doesn't quite phase you. Live and let live.

Personally what annoys me most is when str8 people or uncomfortable gay people deride Pride and claim "it sets our cause backward". Fuck em!

 

[triple7]

hey man , also keep in mind mind that there is more to Toronto Pride than just the music and parties. A lot of organizations offer alternative events such has SOY's "youth pavillion" and buddies in bad times "pride cabaret"; you just have to check out a NOW or an Xtra.

If anything, it's an experience to meet a whole different group of people that you may be used to

 

[Giovanni]

Not my thing, I hate crowds. But I guess I would have to got to one before it's over

 

[Richardodessa]

I've been to it at least 8 years and marched in it 4 years with Elementary School Teachers, Metroplitan Community Church, PFLAG group and once just without any affiliation or it might have been for Out and Out in Toronto. It's a lot of fun and it is very prideful and it's really wonderful to be in such a positive celabratory circumstances when it's all about something you never believed possible in your life time, acceptance. Today, I suppose it's not as meaningful or important but I still think it's worth going to experience. For lots of guys it's just a place to hook up and get sexual I suppose.

 

[drhladnjak]

I'd recommend going. Yes, certain parts of it will probably be overwhelming. However, while you're there you'll notice that most of the people watching (and even really those in the parade) are just ordinary people having a good time.

Almost all pride parades have some sort of festival afterwards where there will be booths/tables for various social or political groups, people giving speeches, food and just lots of people hanging and milling around. That's definitely worth checking out in that you may find a group that appeals to your interests, which would be a great way to better experience "the gay scene".

 

[doctorsun]

You should go because Melanie C is performing there and she's fucking fabulous. I wish I could go just to see her.

 

[Zingerific]

I've been to a few; liked some, disliked others. The ones I disliked were more parade oriented, and that's because I just don't like parades of any sort My favorite, I was invited to a reception afterwards at a cocktail bar. Like anything else, they vary from place to place, year to year, and most importantly, the people you go with or meet.

Anytime someone is doubtful about trying something new (gay pride or otherwise) I always remind them that "if you don't like it, you don't have to stay."

 

[rareboy]

Oh get out there and party for heaven's sakes.

 

[Blueeyessocal]

Tough question. It could go either way. Too much too fast or it could be a great experience. What does your gut tell you? Do you think your ready for Pride?

My friends in Toronto said I should go to Toronto Pride next year. I've never been to a Toronto Pride so I just may do that.

 

[PreTTy PeTe]

You might get to meet Pretty Pete. that in itself would make it worth your effort.

is there any other reason???

Who is Pretty Pete?

me babe.............the sexiest guy in Toronto
and the PreTTiest guy in the parade

 

[CanadianGuy]

Thanks for the replies guys.
I am sorry if I offended anyone, some of you seemed to take what I said the wrong way. I in no way think Pride is a negative thing (maybe a little commerical and skanky sometimes but those both have their postives) or being who you are is a bad thing (if that is flamboyant or not).

You guys have given me a lot to think about. I might see what is going on and maybe go down for part of Pride to see what it is all about. Maybe test it out this year. I think I am too interested not to.

Hi Pete.