New West Pride keeps the LGBT celebrations going strong in New Westminster

If you thought Pride season was over in the Lower Mainland now that the Vancouver Pride parade has come and gone, the party's actually still going on.

Up next is New West Pride, which runs from Saturday (August 12) to August 19.

Things kick off on Saturday with a Rainbow and Sunsets Cruise on the Fraser River.

Unfortunately, that event is sold out but there's plenty more going on throughout the week, including a drag show, a karaoke night, and a sex-toy workshop. Good times.

On Monday (August 14), the rainbow flag will be raised at New Westminster City Hall (511 Royal Avenue) at noon, followed by lunch at the Heritage Grill (447 Columbia Street).

There are also a number of food-related events.

On Tuesday evening (August 15), there's a Pride Family Picnic at Pier Park from 5:30 to 9 p.m. Attendees can bring their own meals to this family-friendly, alcohol-free event.

If you're into pies, the Royal City Farmers Market Pie for Pride Contest will be held on Thursday (August 17) at Tipperary Park from 3 to 7 p.m. Pie slices are available by donation, with proceeds going to New West Pride. Pies will be judged in five categories, including most unique ingredients, best crust, and best flavour combination.

For more information, visit the New West Farmers Market website.

There's also a Rainbow Beer Bash at Judge Begbie's Tavern (609 Columbia Street) starting at 7 p.m. on Friday (August 18) and a Pre-Pride Brunch at Coming Home Café (753 Sixth Street) beginning at 11 a.m. on Saturday (August 19).

Then there's the big shebang you've been waiting for: the New West Pride Columbia Street Party on Saturday from 3 to 8 p.m. There'll be DJs, live bands, and a new spoken word stage hosted by local entertainer David C. Jones, plus beer gardens, vendors, and a children's area.

When the street party starts wrapping up, the party can continue on into the night with after-parties at the Met Bar and Grill (411 Columbia Street), Heritage Grill (447 Columbia Street), and the Columbia (530 Columbia Street).

Also, keep your eye out for storefront displays competing in the Pride window display contest.

For full details on all of these events, visit the New West Pride website.