Innisfil Pride is hosting its Pride Paddle & Picnic this Sunday, August 13, 2023, from 10 am-1 pm at Belle Ewart Park located at 980 Emily Street.
“The annual Pride Paddle & Picnic is Innisfil Pride’s version of (an) environmentally-friendly parade and is welcoming to all. Like most of our events, we provide a family-friendly atmosphere and encourage folks — regardless of their preferences — to join us for a great time,” said Jake Tucker, the president of Innisfil Pride.
While enjoying live music by DIFFRhythm, families are invited to bring lawn games and have their picnic at the park. Barbecues are not permitted and shade shelters must be no larger than 10 feet by 10 feet.
The paddle will commence at 11:30 a.m. Participants are encouraged to bring their own life jackets and flotation devices, as well as their decorated non-motorized vessel, which includes kayaks, canoes, paddle boards, and paddle boats. Sunscreen, bottles of water, and bug spray are also suggested.
Trophies for the top three best decorated non-motorized vessels will be announced at 1 p.m.
Treasurer of Innisfil Pride, Carol Griffith, explained that one of the things that differentiates Innisfil Pride from other Pride organizations are the charities and organizations they support.
Though community members are enjoying the summer months, the members of Innisfil Pride are already committed to ensuring that seniors are not left out in the cold this holiday season, as they are collecting new pyjamas, sweaters, socks, slippers and toiletries for the Seniors Wish Association on Sunday. Attendees are invited to bring any of these items, as well as donations for the Innisfil Food Bank and the Troy Scott Community Fridges, for whom Innisfil Pride accepts donations year-round.
“Based on where we live, (a) small town in comparison, we also strongly focus on community,” Griffith said.
“The public is unaware that out of the seven board members (of Innisfil Pride), only two are from the gay community. Our commitment is to be one community, where we are all just people regardless of sexual orientation.”
"In my case, my two adult children are part of the Pride community. I see their struggles and worry as a parent for their happiness and most importantly their safety. The Pride Paddle and Picnic is for all to come and have an awesome time. Win a 1st, 2nd and 3rd place trophy for best decorated (vessel). Everyone is unique, so why not just enjoy a day of fun, socializing and have a picnic,” Griffith said.
Tucker told InnisfilToday that parking exemptions will be in place for attendees along Arnold Street N and Emily Street between Isabella and Cumberland, as well as nearby streets except where "no parking" signs are posted. Residents are advised to have their Innisfil Parking Pass in clear view. Parking exemptions remain in place until 3 pm.
Follow Innisfil Pride’s Facebook page for updates.
