On a sweltering Saturday (July 7) Langford council attended its first official Pride parade in Victoria.

"We are a growing city and this was the right time," said Langford Mayor Scott Goodmanson. "It is going to be a fun day."

The parade began at Fisgard and Douglas streets, with the Songhees Nation and other First Nations groups opening the ceremony at 11 a.m. A large crowd gathered on each side of Douglas Street to watch dancing, acrobatics and swag.

"There is going to be over 70,000 people in attendance," Goodmanson said.

All of Langford council attended the festival, except Coun. Lilian Szpak. Councillors Kimberley Guiry, Mary Wagner and Colby Harder attended last year's Pride Parade as guests of the City of Victoria. 

"It is a beautiful day," said Guiry. "The parade ends at McDonald's Park, where there is a festival."

Goodmanson had never attended a Pride Parade prior to this year's event but said he was happy he had finally gone to one.

"I am happy I came along, but it is a very hot day."

It is important that the Langford council represents everyone that lives there, said Goodmanson.

"Inclusivity is important," he said.