REGINA — Long after the final float rolled past cheering spectators and the last parade participants made their way into Wascana Park, the message of the 2026 Queen City Pride Parade remained impossible to miss.
It was written on handmade signs and rainbow flags.
It was heard in the cheers of thousands lining Regina's streets.
It echoed in the simple words strangers shared with one another throughout the day:
"Happy Pride."
"I love your outfit."
"You're beautiful and you belong here."
Despite competing with a packed summer calendar that included the Saskatchewan Roughriders' season opener and numerous events across the city and province, several thousand people turned out Saturday for the Queen City Pride Parade and the annual Out in the Park celebration, transforming downtown Regina and Wascana Park into a sea of colour, music, community and acceptance.
For many, it was more than a parade.
It was a reminder of how far Saskatchewan has come.
And why the conversation continues.
The modern Queen City Pride celebration traces its roots back to Regina's first Pride march in 1990, when participants were denied a permit and marched anyway. Some wore masks or covered their faces because being publicly identified as LGBTQ+ could threaten their jobs, relationships and personal safety. Fewer than 100 people took part. Today, Pride events in Regina attract thousands of participants and supporters from across Saskatchewan.
That history was never far from mind on Saturday in Regina.
The parade itself was a moving display of community pride. Brightly decorated floats filled the streets with music while bubbles drifted through the air and rainbow flags waved from every direction. Emergency responders joined the celebration with flashing lights and sirens. Local organizations, businesses, advocacy groups and community leaders marched alongside families, friends and allies.
A Pride-themed city transit bus drew cheers from spectators.
So did Regina Mayor Chad Bachynski, who spent much of the parade route atop the City of Regina float, entertaining crowds with live DJ performances as the float made its way toward the Legislature grounds.
Along the route, children sat on parents' shoulders. Grandparents waved Pride flags. Friends embraced. Complete strangers exchanged smiles and compliments.
Every generation seemed represented.
Every corner of Saskatchewan seemed welcome.
At Wascana Park, the celebration continued.
Hundreds of vendors, artists, creators, community groups and local businesses filled the grounds, showcasing handmade products, artwork, services and community initiatives. Food trucks and vendors kept crowds fed throughout the afternoon while frozen treats offered relief from the warm sunshine.
The weather could hardly have been better.
A bright blue sky stretched overhead while a steady prairie breeze helped keep temperatures comfortable as thousands explored the festival grounds.
Dogs proudly sported rainbow bandanas.
Cats accompanied owners through the park.
Families spread blankets across the grass.
Live music filled the air while performers took to the stage throughout the afternoon.
The atmosphere felt less like a single event and more like a community gathering where everyone had been invited.
That sense of belonging is exactly what organizers have worked to build for decades.
According to Queen City Pride, its mission is to "celebrate and support Regina's 2SLGBTQIA+ community while creating opportunities for connection, advocacy and inclusion." The organization's vision is a society where people can live authentically and free from hate or discrimination.
For many attendees, Pride continues to serve both as a celebration and as a reminder that equality cannot be taken for granted.
That perspective was echoed by Steven Derkson, co-owner of Regina business Rooted Living Designs.
"Pride is important to me because it honours the LGBTQ+ community—past, present, and future," Derkson told SaskToday.
"It brings our community to the forefront for one month each year, encouraging acceptance, understanding, and meaningful conversations."
Photo by Farhad Foroughi of Regina Glances
Derkson noted that Pride's significance extends beyond celebration.
"Pride is not only a celebration but also a protest, affirming that we will not tolerate hate, discrimination, or intolerance based on sexual orientation, gender identity, race, or personal identity."
His words reflect a reality that has shaped Pride movements around the world for decades.
While today's celebrations are filled with music, dancing and joy, they are also rooted in the ongoing pursuit of equality and acceptance. That dual purpose has remained central to Regina's Pride movement from its earliest days to the present.
Yet on Saturday, what stood out most was not conflict.
It was community.
The sight of businesses proudly displaying support.
The cheers that greeted every float.
The families who brought their children.
The seniors who remembered how different things once were.
The young people seeing a crowd that reflected who they are.
The allies who showed up simply because they believed everyone deserves to feel accepted.
For a city often defined by its sense of community, the scene unfolding across downtown Regina and Wascana Park felt like a powerful example of that spirit in action.
Thirty-six years ago, a small group of people marched despite uncertainty and fear.
On Saturday, thousands celebrated openly beneath the prairie sunshine.
The contrast tells its own story.
And perhaps no one summed up the significance of the day better than Derkson.
"We need Pride because hate and homophobia still exist," he said.
"The prejudice and hostility our community faces—not only during Pride Month but throughout the entire year—are the primary reasons why Pride continues to be necessary and why it must be celebrated."
