As the Lethbridge Pride Fest grows up, it’s also growing in numbers, from just a table party to what it has become today.

For the first time ever the festival will be held in July in an effort to reduce the chance of any rain or flood issues like what happened last year, says PrideFest Chairman Reid Hollander, who is proud of the growth the festival has experienced over its six years in existence.

"Pride grows every year in the city. I’ve watched this celebration go from a table of 16, to a patio party at a local restaurant, to renting the whole restaurant, to a week-long celebration. Word of mouth advertising has been our best bet to get our celebration out there and we continue to attract more people every year at a steady pace," he says.

Moving the festival to July also avoids a conflict with World Aboriginal Day on June 21st, and increases the chance of hot sunny days, Hollander says.

Some new events include a community dance on June 27th.

"What’s special about this is that we’ve paired up with the Westminster Neighbourhood Association to do a Pride event allowing families and people under the age of 18 a chance to celebrate Pride with us," Hollander explains. "We have also paired up with the Lethbridge HIV Connection to bring an event on June 26th.  This is a fantastic opportunity to listen to a great cellist go through his life experiences, and listen to his music."

Despite some anti-gay controversies in the past, Lethbridge has embraced the gay community and Pride events, according to Hollander.

"Everything we do today generates a headline of some sort. Cellphones with cameras and the Internet have made everyone a reporter of some sort. I’ve been in Lethbridge for 30 years and I can honestly say that this city and the people offer great support to all types of functions whether they are local, provincial or national."

This is only the second year for the Pride Parade but Hollander expects a good turnout for the popular event showcasing a diverse community.

"Pride Fest allows people to see we celebrate and take pride in who we are, the same as everyone else does," he says. "I’m really excited for everyone to have a really great time this year and I’m already looking forward to next year."