Ottawa prepares for nine days of celebrations featuring arts, culture, community events and the annual Capital Pride Parade
OTTAWA, ON — Capital Pride has officially launched programming for its 2026 Festival, unveiling the theme “Together We Shine / Ensemble on rayonne” alongside a packed schedule of events that will transform Ottawa into a hub of celebration, advocacy and community engagement from August 22 to 30.
Presented by TD, the nine-day festival will feature more than 20 signature events, over 40 community-led activities, more than 60 live performances and the return of the annual Capital Pride Parade, reinforcing the event’s position as one of Ottawa’s largest celebrations of 2SLGBTQIA+ communities.
Organizers also announced Olympic gold medallist and Ottawa Charge captain Brianne Jenner as the 2026 Capital Pride Parade Grand Marshal, recognizing her leadership in sport and her advocacy for inclusion and visibility within 2SLGBTQIA+ communities.
Festival Theme Highlights Community and Inclusion
This year’s theme, Together We Shine, centres on the importance of community, belonging and collective support. According to Capital Pride, the message reflects the idea that visibility and inclusion grow stronger when individuals and communities stand together.
“Every year, Pride reminds us that our greatest strength is one another,” said David Breault, Chair of Capital Pride. “This year’s theme, Together, We Shine, reflects what our community demonstrates every day—that visibility, inclusion, and joy grow brighter when we stand together. We look forward to welcoming our community and visitors from across Canada to celebrate everything that makes Pride so meaningful.”
The festival is expected to attract thousands of residents and visitors while showcasing Ottawa as a destination for inclusive cultural experiences.
Expanded Programming Across Ottawa
The 2026 festival schedule includes a broad range of activities spanning arts, entertainment, advocacy, sports, family programming and nightlife.
Key highlights include:
- More than 20 signature Capital Pride events.
- More than 40 community-led events, including Pre-Pride programming beginning August 1.
- Over 60 live performances throughout Festival Week.
- Two major entertainment venues: the TD Main Stage at Snyder Plaza and the Metcalfe Plaza Stage.
- The Capital Pride Parade on Sunday, August 30.
- A two-day Capital Pride Street Festival along Bank Street on August 29 and 30.
- The official bilingual 2026 Capital Pride Guide in both print and digital formats.
Capital Pride Executive Director Callie Metler said the continued growth of the festival reflects the contributions of partners throughout the community.
“Capital Pride continues to grow because of the incredible partnerships, volunteers, artists, sponsors, businesses, and community organizations that help bring the Festival to life,” said Callie Metler, Executive Director of Capital Pride. “From internationally recognized performers and signature events to grassroots community programming, this year’s Festival offers something for everyone while celebrating the diversity and resilience of our 2SLGBTQIA+ communities.”
Tourism and Government Support Drive Festival Growth
The festival receives funding from the Government of Canada, the Government of Ontario, the City of Ottawa and Ottawa Tourism, highlighting its importance to both the local tourism economy and the city’s cultural calendar.
Ottawa Tourism said its support extends through several funding initiatives designed to strengthen visitor experiences and community programming during Ottawa’s bicentennial year.
“Capital Pride showcases the energy, creativity and inclusivity that make Ottawa such a compelling destination for everyone to visit and experience,” says Michael Crockatt, resident & CEO of Ottawa Tourism. “Ottawa Tourism is proud to support this year’s Capital Pride festival through the Major Festivals Fund, Tourism Accessibility Fund and 200th Tourism Animation Fund, helping to enhance the visitor experience and celebrate Ottawa’s bicentennial through unique, community-driven programming. We look forward to welcoming residents and visitors alike to experience one of the city’s signature festivals.”
Parade and Street Festival Mark Grand Finale
The festival will conclude on Sunday, August 30, with the annual Capital Pride Parade. The parade will travel east along Wellington Street before turning south onto Bank Street through Centretown, ultimately connecting participants and spectators to the Capital Pride Street Festival, which stretches along Bank Street between Slater Street and Gladstone Avenue.
Organizers expect the parade and accompanying street festival to once again serve as the centrepiece of the week-long celebrations.
Pride Guide Available Online Ahead of Festival
Capital Pride has also released its official bilingual 2026 Pride Guide, which is now available online and will soon be distributed in print throughout Ottawa and Gatineau. The guide includes festival schedules, maps, community event listings, sponsor information and other resources for attendees planning their visit.
The 2026 Capital Pride Festival runs from August 22–30, bringing together thousands of residents and visitors for more than a week of celebration, education, advocacy and community connection across Canada’s capital.