Pride 2008 Celebrations Observations and Recommendations
From my observations I thought this was the largest and best Pride Celebrations to date.
This was my 4th year marching in the parade and I thought the crowds were noticeably larger than in years past. This was especially true as the crowds continued along Gerrard Street, which it did not in the past.
I also felt there were a greater number of American tourists in town, and I understand that the downtown Hotels were doing better in comparison to last year.
I really enjoyed the Pink TTC Bus and was proud to see the Canadian Forces contingent. I thought Dancap Productions scored a major marketing coup, as their free water guns were the most sought after item during the entire weekend.
I also have to give kudos to the organizers for decentralizing the celebrations away from Church Street, and making use of the parkettes and lots east of Yonge Street. The permanent addition of the Wellesley Concert Stage is a huge success.
There is always room for improvement. I personally would like to see the organizers take another shot at extending the Parade to Yonge-Dundas Square as it did 2-3 years ago. I understand that the extension was axed because it pulled too many people away from Church Street. One idea may be to start the parade in reverse, and begin at Yonge-Dundas and work its way up to Bloor Street.
I also noticed the lack of any official pride decorations along Church Street. I would also like to see the organizers work with the local BIA’s at dressing up Yonge, Bloor and Church Streets with “Happy Pride” street banners. I was at Sydney, Australia’s pride celebrations last year and their entire parade route, a good chunk of the CBD and even the Airport arrivals hall had huge street banners wishing everyone a Happy Mardi Gras!
Finally, I understand that Pride Toronto have in the past tried to get a permit to launch fireworks off the top of buildings along Church Street. The 519 and Maple Leaf Gardens would be ideal sites. I believe this would be a hot addition and I would like to see the city work with the organizers to make it happen!
Louroz
