Photostory: 2025 Edmonton Pride Parade

After seven years, the Edmonton Pride Parade returned to Edmonton. While the COVID-19 pandemic threw an obvious wrench in having a pride parade, it was also disagreements over the inclusion of law enforcement that led to the halitus. Law enforcement was present, blocking off the parade route, but did not march in the parade.

This year’s parade was led by a Trans March. Given the recent bills passed in Alberta targeting trans youth and similar attacks happening elsewhere, this wasn’t a surprise. Throughout much of the parade, there were signs specifically addressing trans pride and frustration with the treatment of trans people.

There was also a few pro-Palestine signs that were part of the parade. Safe to say, it was clear that this wasn’t just a celebration, it was also a protest.

Fandoms also made appearances, from Star Trek and Ghostbusters to Mama and Papa Stanley and the Oilers. A more perplexing Stormtrooper battalion also made an appearance. Considering stormtroopers were fascists and named after Nazis, it was an interesting addition.

And as is usually the case, several political candidates or parties took part. Two mayoral candidates, Andrew Knack and Michael Walters, walked in the parade and the current mayor, Amarjeet Sohi drove with Mama and Papa Stanley. The Liberal Party of Canada made an appearance, and the Alberta New Democratic Party with their MLA-gays Janis Irwin and Brooks Arcand-Paul.

Most importantly, there were lots of prideful pups present at the parade.

2025 Edmonton Pride Parade

42 photos