Newmarket, ON — York Region Pride 2025 wrapped up in spectacular fashion this past weekend, with more than 45,000 people coming together in downtown Newmarket to celebrate 2SLGBTQ+ inclusion, visibility, and community.
The annual parade, the largest Pride event in York Region, lit up Main Street on Saturday evening, featuring rainbow-covered floats, drag performers, stilt walkers, local community groups, marching bands, and elected officials from all levels of government.
Premier Doug Ford and Ontario’s Minister of Energy and Mines Stephen Lecce were both in attendance and marched alongside organizers — a significant show of provincial support during Pride Month. This marks one of the highest-profile provincial appearances at a suburban Pride event in recent memory.
🏳️🌈 A Weekend of Celebration
Saturday evening’s Pride Parade transformed Main Street Newmarket into a joyful celebration of diversity. Beginning at 6 p.m., more than 3,000 participants marched proudly through the heart of town, cheered on by thousands lining the sidewalks waving flags and dancing to live music. The procession featured community groups, drag performers, school alliances, local businesses, and a strong showing from York Region’s municipalities — all united under a message of love, equality, and inclusion.
On both Saturday and Sunday, the Riverwalk Commons Festival ran from 10 a.m. to 10 p.m., offering something for everyone:
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Main stage performances, including music, drag shows, and spoken word,
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A bustling marketplace of local vendors,
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Food trucks from across the region,
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A dedicated Kids Zone, and
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A Low Sensory Area to ensure accessibility and comfort for all.
🌟 45,000 Celebrate in York Region
Organizers estimate more than 45,000 people attended the festival across the weekend, making it one of the largest regional Pride celebrations in Ontario. Roads were closed around Riverwalk Commons and Main Street to make room for the festivities, while York Region Transit provided shuttle buses from Newmarket GO, Ray Twinney Centre, and Magna Centre to ensure easy access for visitors.
💬 What They’re Saying
In a story by Newmarket Today, the festival was praised as:
“A really beautiful thing… Pride fest draws crowds for music and community.”
Many attendees and volunteers commented on the positive, family-friendly energy that defined the weekend — with special appreciation for the thoughtful accessibility features and welcoming environment.
🔜 Pride Month Continues
With Toronto Pride Festival and Green Space Festival taking place this coming weekend, Pride celebrations across the GTA are far from over. But for York Region, this year’s event cemented its legacy as one of the most vibrant and inclusive community-led Pride festivals in Canada.
Stay tuned to GTA Weekly for continued Pride Month coverage across the region.
Follow us on social media for more community events and stories. #GTAWeekly #YorkRegionPride #PrideMonth2025
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