How to get the most out of Pride Week in Vancouver

Where the heck have I been for the last eight weeks? On a North American Gay Pride Tour if you must know.

I often get asked how I end up getting to go to all these colorful events around the world and it's not a simple answer. As a documentary film maker and now figurehead of sorts for a brand new Gay male APP called GuySpy,  I have been tasked with sharing my film with the celebrating masses and sharing the love for finding new love via some of the snappiest new technology around. 

From the super multi-cultural streets of downtown Toronto to the raucous outdoor party scene in Denver and the pretty-boy circuit in Los Angeles, I have shared buckets of beers and exchanged 'happy pride's!' to more people then most may ever in their Gay adult lifetime.

I'm certainly not complaining. In fact I usually enjoy every last minute of it, but in reality, too much of a good thing can become a bit taxing. With this in mind, I'm giving you Big Gay Blog's selection of must do events over the coming week and weekend.

Tuesday, July 26th: The opening of the Vancouver Queer Arts Festival will feature the BEST in local art, music, dance, film and theatre. Look for Darcy Michael's The Gayest Show on Earth Part Deux, Even Gayer. 7 p.m. ROUNDHOUSE Community Center, Davie Street.

Wednesday, July 27th: An evening with Parade Grand Marshall, film maker and humanitarian Pat Rocco. See some of Pat's early erotic films and the VERY first gay male kiss ever on celluloid. Pat's work is a treasure and he is a character with stories that will make your toes point with titalation...not too shabby for a guy in his late 70's! 6:30 p.m. Denman Cinema, 1779 Comox Street.

Thursday, July 28th: It's the annual Pride Movie night featuring a sing-a-long version of The Adventures of Priscilla, Queen of the Desert! Come in DRAG and save $3 at the door! 7 p.m. Granville Seven Cinemas

Friday, July 29th: The Davie Street Dance Party. Presented by CAYA this year's outdoor bash promises more bands, more bars and more sexy guys and gals to cruise the night away. It's always a safe bet for a good time. 7PM Davie Street

Saturday, July 30th: Do NOT miss the DYKE march...even if you're a guy who just likes guys, the DYKE march is a beautiful, empowering and inspirational walk and festival...kind of what the old marches must have felt like. 12 NOON, McSpadden Park, Victoria Drive, East Van

Sunday, July 31st: Well, Saturday night really....head to   GORG-O-MISH AFTER [email protected] Smythe Street to hear super DJ's Adam Dreaddy and Paulo spin till the sun rises at UNITED: Pride 1AM-8AM

But get some sleep and do not miss the parade. Believe me, I have attended and participated in Pride Parades all over the world and Vancouver's is by far the best. 12 noon start- Robson and Denman Streets

Post Parade:

Guys: Martini's infamous T-Dance...MAJOR prize give-a-ways and major guys! Get your tickets early! 230 p.m. J-Lounge on Davie and Bute Street.

Gals: Chica's! I go to this event every year. The women are fierce and the music is always incredible. This year they move to a new venue, the Queen Elizabeth Theatre. 330 PM, 650 Hamilton Street

Sunday Night:  Be sure to attend Rapture 11: Victory. It's where ALL the party kids will be. Featuring the FREEMASONS (UK), MICKY FRIEDMANN (Berlin), DJ DREW GULBRANSEN (YVR) with performances by SHOKRA 9PM Commodore Ballroom

Final Tips from a pro: Drink lots of water, take your vitamins, wear sunscreen and a hat and smile. This is a time to celebrate.

Happy pride Vancouver!