The famous Pride weekend might now have been what everyone was hoping for—but thousands were still able celebrate their identity during Toronto’s first ever virtual parade. This year the parade was cancelled due to COVID-19 pandemic. The organizers of Pride Toronto decided to organize series of virtual events.

More than 1,400 people logged on to take part in the hour-and-a-half celebration, wishing each other “happy Pride” in the corresponding chatroom. A variety of speakers and performers took part, including Halsey and Alanis Morissette who opened the show and Jully Black, who ended it.

Source: PrideToronto Twitter

The virtual experience provides a new and creative way to celebrate and showcase the history, courage and diversity of the LGBTQ2S+ community, while also ensuring the safety of Toronto residents and proper social distancing.

Source: pridetoronto.com

"The queer and trans community will continue to trail-blaze and connect our community with innovative and exciting ideas. COVID-19 won’t stop us from continuing to create space for everyone to express who they truly are," reads the release.

"The Virtual Pride Parade will stay true to our political roots and reflect our community. We will honour our courageous past, celebrating how far we have come and will remain vigilant to the ongoing needs of our community. We will help bring issues to light, challenge convention, support our community, and promote safety."

If you want to check video from Virtual Pride 2020 check in here.