Durham Region Transit is advising riders of detours on several routes this Saturday as Ajax hosts its annual Pride Parade through the town’s core.
The parade takes place on Saturday, June 7, from 12:30 to 3:00 p.m., prompting road closures that will affect DRT bus routes 216, 224, and 917 throughout the afternoon.
Route 216 will detour via Station Street to Harwood Avenue. Route 917 will detour via Westney Road, Dreyer Drive, and Pickering Beach Road to Bayly Street. Route 224 will detour via Westney Road to Harwood Avenue. All stops along the detour routes will be served during the event.
A temporary stop will also be added at Westney Road southbound at Clements Road to accommodate displaced passengers.
The Ajax Pride Parade has become a signature community event in Durham Region, drawing residents and visitors together to celebrate LGBTQ+ pride and inclusion. The parade typically features local organizations, community groups, businesses, and residents marching through the streets in a vibrant display of solidarity and celebration.
Each year the event has grown in size and scope, reflecting the increasingly diverse and welcoming nature of Ajax and the broader Durham Region community. The parade route winds through the heart of Ajax, transforming the town centre into a colourful celebration of identity, acceptance, and community spirit.
This year’s parade comes at a time when Pride events across the Greater Toronto Area are seeing increased participation, with communities across the region embracing Pride month celebrations throughout June. Ajax’s parade is one of several Pride events taking place in Durham this month.
DRT is encouraging riders to plan ahead and check schedules before travelling on Saturday. Real-time service updates are available through the DRT website and mobile app. Anyone heading to the parade itself is advised to arrive early to find parking and secure a good viewing spot along the route.
Pride events in Durham have a strong history of community support, with local businesses, schools, faith groups, and municipal leaders regularly participating. The Town of Ajax has been a consistent supporter of Pride celebrations, often flying the Pride flag at municipal buildings and encouraging inclusive programming throughout the year.
For many residents, the parade is more than just a celebration. It represents an opportunity to visibilize and affirm the LGBTQ+ community in Durham Region, where advocacy groups have worked for years to establish safe spaces and promote acceptance across all eight municipalities.
The parade also provides an economic boost to local businesses along the route, as crowds gather for the festivities and surrounding events. Restaurants, shops, and cafes in the area typically see increased foot traffic during Pride celebrations, making it a welcome event for both the community and the local economy.
Those planning to attend are encouraged to bring sunscreen, water, and comfortable walking shoes. Accessibility accommodations are typically available along the parade route, and organizers work to ensure the event is inclusive and welcoming for all attendees regardless of ability.
Residents who normally rely on the affected bus routes should allow extra travel time on Saturday afternoon. Regular service is expected to resume on all routes once the parade concludes and roads reopen to traffic.
