Guelph’s queer community, both at the University of Guelph and the city in general, will celebrate Winter Pride later this month.
A wide variety of events are planned, from a formal social to button making and outdoor skating.
While most Winter Pride events are held on the University of Guelph campus, they are open to the community in general.
“It’s definitely queer community focused collection of events,” said Bella Harris, a member of Winter Pride’s multi-faceted organizing committee.
It runs from Jan. 29 to Feb. 5 and is a collaborative effort between a number of LGBTQQIP2SAA community groups and on-campus groups at the U of G.
Most of the events are free or pay-what-you-can.
Harris said people who are questioning are particularly welcome.
Roughly 300 people are expected to attend, with the formal celebration attracting the most at around 150.
“I encourage anyone who’s interested to come out, especially if they’re questioning and they don’t know 100 per cent if they’re part of the community …. they don’t feel comfortable in the queer community or at queer events. Everyone involved with Winter Pride is super welcoming and would love to have everyone there.
“We don’t want to scare anyone away.”
Part of the reasoning behind Winter Pride is to allow U of G students who aren’t around for Pride Week in the summer to take part in Pride events.
A community fair kicks off the week on Jan. 29 in the U of G’s Student Centre. Other events planned include a murder mystery night, outdoor skating at Market Square, magic show, button making.
More information and a full list of events can be found here.
