Pride in the Park Picnic aims to Include Everyone

After noticing there were no plans in the works for a Pride in the Park festival this year, Corrie Grant took it upon herself to begin plans to organize one. “It was important that something needed to be done,” says Grant who decided to go with a relaxed-fun picnic atmosphere for the event this year; which will be held Saturday at the Cold Lake FCSS.

“If we have 50 people show up, awesome! If we have 500, even better, we’ll have a big block party,” Grant laughs at the possibility of the event being bigger than expected. It’s all about inclusion, no one will be turned away, and it’s going to be a great way to meet new friends, reunite with old ones, and learn that people are more alike than they are different. The event is supported by Cold Lake Bully Free and the LGBT Committee in Cold Lake, explains Grant, “we’re hosting it at the FCSS, there’s a small park there we’ll be able to use and it’s going to be a great day.”

The picnic will include a moment of silence in honour of the victims of the mass shooting at the Pulse Nightclub in Orlando, the 4-Wing Band, and local performer Ashley Slade. There will be kids’ activities says Grant, “I want the event to be for the whole family.” There will be a big cupcake decorating contest, and a community Tug-a-War game. Music will be pumping throughout, thanks to DJ Speakerhead and BYS.

The Cold Lake RCMP Detachment and the Military Police will be in attendance and we’re told they may event participate in some of the fun activities, like the Tug-a-War.  Mayor Craig Copeland is expected to attend around 2:00 pm.

There will be prizes throughout the day and the BBQ is free. Grant thanks sponsors and volunteer who have helped along the way, including Lorraine’s No Frills & Hamel’s Meat in Cold Lake.