The annual affair will stretch from Monday, July 19, through Sunday, July 25, with a combination of in-person and virtual events.

“This year we tried our best to do our usual Pride Week with a downtown parade and a public festival,” Spencer explained. “But with all the COVID-19 restrictions on public gatherings, it was just impossible. So we're moving to Plan B. And it's going to be great.”

Unlike past Pride Week celebrations, which took place on the extended weekend, this year's festivities will feature a different event on each day of the week. The daily schedule of activities includes:

Monday, July 19: “The Pride Porchlight Project,” a citywide event that invites the public to switch out their porch lightbulbs for multi-colored bulbs, which can be ordered through B.C. Pride.

Each night of the week will be represented by a different Pride color.

Tuesday, July 20: “Queer Inquiry,” a virtual panel discussion of important Pride topics by experts and professionals in the fields of mental and physical health, law, politics and veterans affairs.

The panel will also field questions from online viewers.

Wednesday, July 21: The public dedication of a colorful downtown Pride mural.

Thursday, July 22: “LGBTQ&A,” a virtual trivia game show, which will feature local residents answering Pride-related questions to win prizes.

Friday, July 23: An individual car parade that will caravan across the city.

Saturday, July 24: - A public open house of the Battle Creek Pride Resource Center.

Local drag performers will welcome visitors and refreshments will be served.

During tours of the facility the public will also be invited to contribute to a B.C. Pride time capsule that will be sealed up until 2031.

Sunday, July 25: “Whatever Floats Your Boat,” a community river float down the Kalamazoo River, including a drag show.  

Later in the evening, a candlelight vigil will be held to remember those lost in the past year.

“Pride Week is our most important week of the year,' Spencer said. “We hope everyone in our LGBTQ+ community, and in the Battle Creek area, will help us celebrate and join in the fun.”