Despite turning 34 this year there are still many firsts for the Edmonton Pride Festival, which is larger and more recognized than ever.

A lot has changed since the first Pride events took place in Edmonton in 1980, according to Edmonton Pride Festival Society co-chair Terry Harris, who has watched as the festival has grown into itself.

"Edmonton has come a long way from the early 1980s when people were afraid to be out in the community for fear of their safety," Harris says. "Many feared losing their jobs, their family and their friends as well."

"Society has changed a lot in 35 years; members of the LGBTQ community are much more accepted in the greater community and can feel free to be themselves. With that said, there is still a need for continued education and awareness to ensure all members of the LGBTQ feel safe and accepted."

Harris says that both  on a political level and as a whole the city has increasingly become more and more supportive of the community.

"Former Mayor Stephen Mandel was a strong advocate and supporter during his tenure. Our current mayor, Don Iveson, has also provided his strong support. This year will be the 9th annual Mayor’s Brunch in support of Camp fYrefly."

While the first parade/march was about one square block and consisted of only a handful of people, Harris says last year’s numbers topped 35,000 people. Former premier Alison Redford was the first provincial leader to attend a Pride event in Alberta last year, and this year Premier Dave Hancock will participate in the parade.

"Not only has the festival grown in terms of numbers, but there are now over 35 events that run over 10 days. There are a wide variety of events – everything from the parade, Celebration on the Square and dances, to faith-based services, discussion panels, movie night and an art gallery. The diversity of events really does reflect the diversity of the LGBTQ community in Edmonton."

This year SHAW TV will be filming the parade and airing it over the 10 days of the festival, while the Edmonton Police Service Pipe and Drum Band will be joining the parade for the first time, which is history in itself.

Harris says there could be up to 40,000 people attending the parade this year, including many visitors from the south.

"We get a lot of visitors from Calgary. There appears to be a long history of support between the LGBTQ communities in Edmonton and Calgary. Many people travel between the two cities to take in their respective Pride festivals."

Harris and the community are already looking forward to celebrating the magical 35.

"We want to provide a journey of the community’s rich history as we prepare for next year’s celebration," Harris adds.

To showcase the cultural diversity within the LGBTQ community, GLBT Pinoy and Friends, representing Edmonton’s Filipino community, has been selected as this year’s parade marshal. GLBT Pinoy and Friends has been presenting its culture, talent, creativity and ingenuity in Edmonton since 2012.

"We are proud and thankful to celebrate our pride in Canada!" says Jude Youngzone, the group’s organizer.