Stratford has been called “Canada’s gayest small city.” Not at all surprising considering its flourishing arts and culture scene.
Members of the LGBTQ+ (Lesbian, Gay, Bi, Trans, Queer – and more) community beat a path to Stratford’s door and make up a substantial portion of the permanent and visiting populations. In 2016, the national census figures showed Stratford was 7th when male same-sex couples were ranked as a percentage of all couples. More than Toronto, at 8th.
You would be hard pressed to find another Canadian city its size with as many rainbow pride flags flying from business frontages or window stickers adorning front entrances as part of the city’s own LGBTQ+ directory.
It’s not surprising, then, that Stratford is home to two Pride organizations, one of which produces an arts and entertainment festival every winter.
So, why wait for June? Stratford Winter Pride – Love Is Love is your chance to be mid-winter out loud and proud in Canada’s gayest small city.
March 2026
Stratford Winter Pride: Colourful Words: Poetry and Storytelling
Stratford Winter Pride: Robert Watson Presents Gay AF Comedy Night
Stratford Winter Pride: OUT&About Theatre Company presents Shelley’s Shadow
Stratford Winter Pride: OUT&About Theatre Company presents Shelley’s Shadow
Stratford Winter Pride: Drag Brunch
