Pride Ferry event decks out Saskatoon's Prairie Lily in rainbow colours

Saskatoon Pride Festival's fourth annual Pride Ferry ride had the city's river cruise boat decked out in rainbow colours Sunday afternoon.

"We put rainbows all over the place, so when we're cruising down the river, people know we're coming," explained the festival's director of social media, Jon Aschenbrener.

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About 80 people climbed aboard the Prairie Lily event, including first-time cruiser Bernie McLean.

McLean said his friends attended the event last year and their enthusiasm enticed him to tag along this time around.

He added that he also came along to show support for the LGBT community.

Aschenbrener saidthat this year marks a milestone for the city in many ways: not onlywill it be the 25th year for the Pride festival in Saskatoon, it will also be a year thatthe Pride community will havethemayor take part in the festivities.

Charlie Clarkwill serve as the grand marshal of the city'sPride parade.

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Former mayor Don Atchisonnever attended the city's Pride parade during his time in office.

"It's extremely important to spread awareness to make this city more inclusive and friendly for the queer community," saidAschenbrener.