Pride YMM is bringing back a week’s worth of activities to celebrate the LGBTQ community.

For the third straight year, people of all ages, gender identities, expressions, and sexual orientations are being encouraged to take part in different events aimed at inclusivity.

Committee Member Mitchell Bowers tells Mix News this week is much more important than just a week of fun.

“The young people feel like they have a place in the community – studies have shown how much it improves their lives, it decreases suicide rates and as queer people, it gives us a gathering place to meet others that are like us and to share our stories.”

Among the events include an opening ceremony, craft nights, a yoga event, a family movie night, after party, and a picnic on the Snye which will include a volleyball game.

Jubilee Plaza will also be home to the annual pride celebration on August 24 from 12 p.m. – 4 p.m.

Bowers says they’re hoping to more people enjoy the festivities.

“It’s grown every year, every year we see more and more people out, we get more support from the community and it just keeps getting better.”

The week of celebration gets underway on August 18 and goes until August 24.