To recognize Pride Month in June, the City of Vaughan is hosting a Pride event at Vaughan City Hall (2141 Major Mackenzie Dr.) outside in the courtyard and in the Vaughan Room. You’re invited to attend on Tuesday, June 16 from 10 a.m. to 11:30 a.m.! This free event will feature official remarks from Mayor Steven Del Duca and a flag raising ceremony.

It’s a popular event, so pre-registration is strongly encouraged. Confirm your attendance for the event online.

For Pride Month 2026, Vaughan Public Libraries encourages children and families to come on out on Saturday, June 27 between 2 p.m. and 3 p.m. to celebrate with a Pride Month Puppet Show (Bathurst Clark Resource Library, 900 Clark Ave. W.) Follow Pip and Friends at the magical Festival of Shadows, where every colour, shape and family belongs. This joyful puppet show shines with laughter, music, and heart – perfect for Pride Month!

And for older kids, Merch Maker: Pride in a Jar is a place for teens (Grades 7 to 12) to create 2SLGBTQ+ themed mason jar mugs with supplies provided. These, along with other specialized programs, are highlighted in the May-June 2026 “What’s On” guide. Finally, Vaughan Public Library frequently updates its collections to feature Queer stories and BIPOC literature, highlighted in these Read Proud blog posts.

For several years now, Vaughan Mills has celebrated Pride in late June with community-focused activations in the Event Court and partnerships with local 2SLGBTQ+ organizations. For 2026, visitors can expect initiatives like the “Love Blossoms Here” campaign, curated art installations, and initiatives to support our local 2SLGBTQ+ organizations (such as CAYR Community Connections). Look for installations located in the Event Court area.

Vaughan strives to foster a culture that is inclusive and respectful, where all residents, employees, businesses, and visitors are provided accessible opportunities to engage and participate. We value the significant contributions diverse communities make to the cultural, economic, and social achievements in Vaughan. So, here are several restaurants that embrace the inclusive spirit of Pride Month!

Penelope Social (125 Hawkview Blvd.) is a hidden gem in Vaughan, with a welcoming and inclusive atmosphere. It offers the best New York-style sourdough pizza, artisanal handhelds and creative cocktails and has become a popular neighborhood hub for all – including the 2SLGBTQ+ community – thanks to its vibrant late-night atmosphere.

Smoke and Mirrors Gastropub (2780 Highway 7) is a fine Italian-style gastropub. It focuses on quality at every level, from carefully sourced ingredients to an atmosphere that’s vibrant and welcoming to diverse crowds. Their cocktails are crafted to impress, balancing flavor with creativity… and sometimes with a little smoke or sparkle for good measure.

Yokai Izakaya  (3175 Rutherford Rd.) is known for playfully crafted cocktails, exclusive sakes and an otherworldly selection of Japanese spirits. The restaurant is a highly inclusive and trendy environment, featuring staff and clientele that are generally diverse and gender-neutral restrooms. It has a chic “speakeasy” atmosphere.

Located in the historic village of Kleinburg, Belsito Trattoria-Vino (10429 Islington Ave.) is an Italian-inspired restaurant with a creative menu in a romantic, upscale setting. It’s perfect for date nights and celebrations and is considered widely inclusive. It’s officially recognized in regional directories as a 2SLGBTQ+ friendly and transgender-safe space.

If you’re planning to celebrate Pride Month in Vaughan, there’s no shortage of events, family-friendly activities, ceremonies, and restaurants to make your June adventures memorable! Always remember to visit visitvaughan.ca for information on everything Vaughan has to offer this June.

As you explore all that Vaughan has to offer, don’t forget to tag us at #VisitVaughan and follow us on Instagram at @visitvaughan!