It's that time of year again in Whistler, when rainbows flap in the wind and the village fills with souls as colorful as the threads in each flag. It is WinterPride week, the annual festival celebrating (and congregating) gays and lesbians from around the world.
This WinterPride is a special one-it's the 20th anniversary and organizers are expecting over 2500 guests, all who will enjoy eight days of snowy fun and 65 different events.
Born out of activism in 1992, the WinterPride festival has changed a lot in 20 years. "Whistler's gay ski week has gone through an amazing journey," says CEO and Co-Executive Producer Dean Nelson. "It has touched many lives."
Throughout the decades, WinterPride has celebrated many firsts-the first time rainbow flags were introduced into the village, the first time it officially "came out" as a festival, the first time a drag queen tried to climb a snow bank in stilettos.
Like years past, 2012 has some very exciting firsts planned. Perhaps the biggest: the Whistler Municipality has officially proclaimed February 5-12 "Pride Week." A rainbow flag will fly at town hall in its honor.
"To mark this incredible recognition, we will be having our very first Pride march," says Nelson, who, as one would imagine, is tickled pink. At three pm February ninth, the march will start at the Skier's Plaza and end at the Whistler Conference Center. Another first, Whistler's mayor, Nancy Wilhelm-Morden, will address the crowd at five pm.
These momentous firsts will be amidst a week of fantastic events, parties and snow sports in BC's favourite ski town.
"We have an amazing line up of activities," says Nelson. Some of the highlights include: Ski/Snowboard Guiding program presented by Air New Zealand, Pride Skelton run at the Whistler Sliding Centre, Inner Tubing, Skating at Whistler Olympic Park, and the Mr. Gay Canada competition, which will be documented by OUTtv.
The parties are sure to be epic. The two not to miss are the Shred Betties Bash and Snowball 20, both on Saturday night. "The visuals and lighting show we are producing with ShowMAX are going to be incredible!" says Nelson about Snowball 20. Shred Betties will also knock your ski socks off with hot snow bunnies and plenty of winter fun.
One thing sure to raise the excitement level is that Whistler loves gays and lesbians, and welcomes them with open arms. "Part of Whistler's moral fabric is to be inclusive," explains Nelson, who says guests can expect village merchants to put rainbow flags in their windows to show solidarity.
Visitors can also expect a great time! With the mounting snowfall, the warm reception, and the building gaiety, WinterPride's Anniversary is sure to be a banner year. "Come out and celebrate with us," encourages Nelson. "Help us commemorate 20 amazing years."
