Divers/Cité’s Apocalipstik

 

Montreal pride fest Divers/Cité is in the midst of its 20th edition. Having parted ways with the annual parade several years ago — that tradition has been taken on by Fierté Montreal Pride, and will happen on Aug. 19 — Divers/Cité has turned its focus to club parties and live music events, many of them free (albeit with suggested donations) and in the open air. But rather than occupy its usual spot in the Village by Place Émilie Gamelin, it’s moved south to the Old Port.

Tonight, Apocalipstik unites traditional pride festivities and the alternative LGBTQ crowd, the latter represented by folks from the Royal Phoenix and non-Village parties POMPe and Mec Plus Ultra. Organizer Val Desjardins of the Royal Phoenix had this to say:

“This is really the epitome of diversity. Often with gay pride events, things are really segregated into girl and boy parties. Divers/Cité recognized the importance of integrating this amazing art community in Mile End and around Montreal, and the need to break down stereotypes that have built up within the [gay] community. So gender is fluid, sexuality is fluid and the music doesn’t need to be 100 per cent techno.”

Here’s a taste of what’s on the musical menu:

 

Aracde Fire/Bell Orchestre violinist Sarah Neufeld, playing during the fireworks:

Toronto’s Dirty Mags:

Foxtrott, aka DJ MHMHMH, aka Hélène L. Delorme:

NYC’s Kid Savant, former Montrealers:

Québécoise Fanny Bloom, formerly of la Patère Rose:

See them all alongside DJs B’UGO, Frantastik & Montag, Tizi and JNNBNNRCK, hosts Val Desjardins and Sally & Tyler and Glam Gam Productions at the Quai Jacques Cartier (Loto-Québec stage) today, Friday, Aug. 3, 6 p.m., $5 suggested donation