Police warn Pride partygoers to guard against pickpockets

As millions of people prepare to hit the streets of Toronto to celebrate Pride weekend, police are reminding partygoers to keep an eye on their belongings and watch out for pickpockets.

"A moment of distraction is all it takes to separate you from your valuables," Inspector Tricia Johnson told reporters during a press conference on Friday, June 26. "Pick pocketing, especially cell phone theft, is very common during large events and in large crowds."

It's a repeated warning from police, who say that hundreds of cell phones were previously reported stolen during Pride events in 2024 and 2025, with thieves taking advantage of the large crowds to swipe the costly devices. Police advise keeping valuables safe in your front pocket or a zippered pouch, and bringing only the valuables you need to the event.

TPS says it will have a visible presence alongside parade routes, major events and other festivals throughout the city to ensure public safety. The Toronto Pride parade will take place on Sunday, June 28. It starts near Bloor and Yonge Streets at Rosedale Valley Road at 2 p.m. and runs down Yonge Street to Bay and Queen Street. The Pride Street Fair will also be happening all weekend along Church Street from Bloor to Dundas Streets, with more than 200 vendors, live music and interactive experiences.

Festivalgoers can flag down a police officer at the scene or report a theft online.