Windsor-Essex PrideFest 2024
Windsor-Essex PrideFest 2024
A Weekend of Unity, Glamour, and Celebration
WINDSOR, Ontario - Windsor-Essex Pride Fest 2024 was a resounding success, bringing together the LGBTQ+ community and allies for a weekend full of vibrant performances, joyful celebrations, and unforgettable moments. From August 9th to August 11th, the festival transformed Lanspeary Park into a haven of pride and unity, showcasing a diverse lineup of drag performances, dance parties, and community events that left attendees buzzing with excitement.
Friday Night: United Dance Party
The weekend kicked off on Friday night with the United Dance Party at Lanspeary Park, a free event that brought out the best in Windsor’s LGBTQ+ nightlife. DJ Kevin Bailey set the tone with infectious beats, while special guests Mercury Retrograde, Angelina Lepore, Hudson Bae, B. Martini, and Epoxy—who stepped in for Lua—kept the energy soaring.
Hudson Bae’s striking leather ensemble set the mood for a night of fierce fashion and dance. B. Martini, living her Pink Pony Club fantasy, delivered a show-stopping performance to Chappell Roan's "HOT TO GO," while Angelina Lepore captivated in an all-black ensemble, exuding elegance and mystery. Mercury Retrograde brought her burlesque roots to the forefront, wowing the crowd with her big Peggy Bundy red wig, leopard print dress, and fire act, which included setting her tongue ablaze. Epoxy, initially there to MC, couldn’t resist the stage and joined in with her signature blue hair and fearless attitude. The United Dance Party was a dynamic start to the weekend, setting the bar high for the events to follow.
Saturday: Queens of Pride
Saturday’s Queens of Pride event at Lanspeary Park was the festival’s crown jewel, featuring an all-star lineup of drag performers. Trinity The Tuck Taylor, from RuPaul’s Drag Race season 9 and All Stars season 4 winner, and Aimee Yonce Shennel from Canada’s Drag Race season 4 headlined the event, delivering show-stopping performances that had the audience on their feet.
The first set opened with Epoxy in striking black and white zebra stripes, followed by Vanity Affair in a hot pink and black vinyl outfit. Benz Menova teased the audience with a pole dance, while Venom Vonsnaps, with backup dancers Hudson Bae and Belle Vyra, delivered a high-energy performance. Lena Di amazed with her silver coat and electric blue dress, while Star, full of life in a skin-toned bodysuit with primary colors, dazzled the audience. Aimee Yonce Shennel brought the crowd to life in a black and lime green vinyl coat, while Trinity The Tuck seduced the audience with a slow and sultry number, leaving everyone wanting more.
The second set saw Venom Vonsnaps returning in a hot pink gown, Benz Menova in a seductive pole dance, and Epoxy in an iridescent ensemble. Star shone in a light blue blazer with shimmering tinsel, Vanity Affair made a bold statement with a black-hands-with-red-nails ensemble, and Lena Di brought high-energy dance moves in red feathers. Aimee Yonce Shennel returned in a sexy genie look, granting every audience’s wish, while Trinity closed the show with a shimmering black and red outfit, showcasing her perfect curves.
Saturday Night: GLITTERBALL
After Queens of Pride, the GLITTERBALL at Waters Edge Event Centre kept the party going. DJ Josh Karmin kept the crowd moving all night, with special performances by Van Goth, Dulce, Liquorice, and Elixia adding to the electric atmosphere.
Sunday: Pride Day and Show Your Colours Parade
Sunday’s events kicked off with the 2024 Parade: Show Your Colours, a vibrant and colorful display of community pride. Following the parade was Pride Day! at Lanspeary Park, a free admission event featuring performances by Detroit's Drag Royalty Sabin, Windsor’s Comedy Queen Mel Lucier, musical acts like Alisabeth Von Presley, Nikki Holland & the Dirty Elizabeths, Carly Thomas, Saints Down, and drag performances by Subrina Kink, Aurora Bore Alice, Daisy, Dawn Key, and Mina Gorgina.
Windsor-Essex Pride Fest 2024 was a testament to the power of community, bringing together people from all walks of life to celebrate love, diversity, and self-expression. From the United Dance Party to the Show Your Colours Parade, every event was filled with joy, laughter, and unforgettable performances, making this year’s festival one for the books.
For exclusive interviews with Trinity The Tuck Taylor, and Aimee Yonce Shennel visit the links below.
Photos and review by Kevin Blondin
Sarnia-Lambton PrideFest 2024
Sarnia-Lambton PrideFest 2024
A Vibrant Celebration of Diversity and Drag
SARNIA, Ontario - Sarnia-Lambton PrideFest 2024 was a spectacular two-day celebration that brought together a diverse array of talent, creativity, and community spirit. Held on July 12th and 13th, the festival featured an impressive lineup of events, each highlighting the unique vibrancy of the drag and LGBTQ+ community.
Friday Night: Mosaic
The festivities kicked off on Friday night with Mosaic, a BIPOC-focused event at Refined Fool Brewing Company. The evening's headliners were Salina EsTitties from season 15 of RuPaul's Drag Race and Jada Shada Hudson from season 3 of Canada's Drag Race. Special guests included Galaxy, Kamilla Flores, The X Wife, Brenda, Tammy The Brown, and Kara Melle.
** Click the buttons below to see video clips from the first set **
The atmosphere was electric as attendees from near and far gathered to celebrate. Salina EsTitties brought unparalleled energy to the stage, even dancing on the bar and performing a medley of her memorable Drag Race lipsync battles. Jada Shada Hudson provided a captivating contrast with her sultry, slow movements that interspersed bursts of high-energy action. The night was a perfect blend of dynamic performances and stunning looks, setting a high bar for the rest of the festival.
Saturday: Pride in the Park
On Saturday, the celebration continued with Pride in the Park at McGibbon Park. This family-friendly event featured a musical performance by Sarah Smith, a variety of vendors, and activities for kids. The drag entertainment, hosted by Benz Menova and Sheerah Mae Heartt, showcased performances by Liquorice, Keri Mia Way, Kit Thunder, Lavender Skyes, Brattery Acid, and Suga Cube.
The sunny weather added to the joyous atmosphere as attendees of all ages enjoyed the performances and activities. Pride in the Park was a testament to the inclusive and welcoming spirit of the Sarnia-Lambton community, providing a safe and fun space for everyone.
Saturday Night: YOUphoria
The festival's climax was YOUphoria, an all-trans and non-binary cast event at Imperial City Brew House. Headlined by Kylie Sonique Love, the winner of RuPaul's Drag Race All Stars season 6, and The Girlfriend Experience from Canada's Drag Race season 4, the night featured special guests Farra N Hyte, Heaven Lee Hytes, Poison, Maple Queef, Tommi Boy, and Brenda.
** Click the buttons below to see video clips from the first set **
Kylie Sonique Love wowed the crowd with her high-energy performances, including a Gwen Stefani-inspired act and a daring strip-down to a string bikini. The Girlfriend Experience, however, stole the show with a jaw-dropping performance that left the audience in awe. The chemistry between Farra N Hyte and Heaven Lee Hytes was palpable, and Tommi Boy's engaging performances kept the energy high throughout the night. The event, which encouraged donations for QT Camp, was a roaring success and left an indelible mark on everyone in attendance.
Supported by Diversity Ed, Sarnia-Lambton Pride Fest 2024 was a memorable celebration of love, diversity, and self-expression. Each event highlighted the talent and resilience of the LGBTQ+ community, making it a festival to remember.
For exclusive interviews with Salina EsTitties, Jada Shada Hudson, Kylie Sonique Love, The Girlfriend Experience and Brenda visit the links below.
Photos and review by Kevin Blondin