Victoria’s mayor, city councillors and members of the public helped kick-off Pride Week celebrations on Thursday.

The rainbow flag was raised at City Hall at noon.

There will be various events throughout the week – including the ever popular ‘dragball,’ art and music events and of course the parade.

“Pride throws a really good party. It’s a lot of fun and it’s fun for everyone,” Helps said.

The Pride parade is July 10, which will include an electric car, a parks truck and a fire truck.

“Pride has become not just for the gay, lesbian, bisexual, transgendered community, but a celebration for everyone,” Helps said. “For me it’s an opportunity to really celebrate diversity and love is such a wonderful thing. Who doesn’t want love?”

Helps said because of the recent events in Orlando, she expects more people to come out in support this year.

“The Orlando tragedy I think has brought our community here in Victoria - straight, gay, lesbian, bisexual, transgender - brought everybody together. And I think Pride will probably have extra meaning and probably more people this year because of that,” Helps told CTV News.

On June 12, 50 people were killed and more than 50 others were injured after an armed gunman opened fire at Pulse Orlando nightclub.

“There is still discrimination, there are still dangers and I think events like Pride are opportunities to mark that and to reflect on that,” Helps added. “I think in Victoria we’ve got a really strong supportive community overall.”

In terms of security for Pride Week events, the city’s police chief says there’s nothing to worry about, according to the mayor.

For a full list of the events taking place throughout Pride Week click here.