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Outdoor Tips, Tricks, Inspiration and Activities | MEC Blog

As summer winds down (and we get prepped for ski season events), it’s time to look back at all the amazing events we’ve had in the last few months. Have a peek at some of our favourites – we hope to see you at winter events coming up: 

### There’s No Place Like Camp 

To celebrate the camp season in July, we welcomed campers to events across the country in Vancouver, Toronto and Calgary. Big thanks to our friends at The WKNDRS, the [L.A. Foundation](/en/explore/la-foundation), MSR, Nemo and more. Everyone took part in camp clinics, gear tutorials, bingo games and s’mores stations (yum). 

*Photo: Kieren from the L.A. Foundation gave clinics on how to pack your pack and goal setting for the outdoors.*

### Out and About Pride 

This year, Pride was more important than ever. In partnership with Arc’teryx, we had a full weekend of Pride events across the country from June to August – everyone was welcome to come and celebrate their true colours. Local community groups and climbing partners joined the festivities, Vancouver-based artist Leah Day transformed the MEC twin peaks into an epic art installation, and we worked with four incredible artists across Canada to design one-of-a-kind The North Face Base Camp Duffles inspired the outdoors to raffle off. In total, we donated over $5400 to five different 2LGBTQIA+ outdoor communities across Canada – amazing.  

*Photo: MEC members across the country left special “love letters” on the art installations by Leah Day.*

### Learn-to Camp with Parks Canada 

From June to September, MEC teamed up with [Parks Canada](/en/explore/parks-canada) at their annual Learn-to Camp overnight events across the country. MEC members joined us for in-store workshops led by Parks Canada, where they learned basic camping skills and safety in the wilderness. 

*Photo: Learn-to Camp attendees found out how to use a camp stove, set up a tent, light a campfire and more.*

### Moncton Grand Opening 

A huge one! We celebrated the opening of our newest Maritimes-based store in [Moncton](/en/stores/moncton), New Brunswick. Climb clinics were hosted, local musicians played some tunes, prizes were won and delicious coffee was sipped. New friends lined up down the sidewalk (even in the rain!) to get in on the action – over 5500 Monctonians paid us a visit over the three days of the grand opening event. 

*Photo: Moncton members had a blast at the grand openings with live music, gift bags and tasty trail mix at the new store.* 

### International Trails Day 

On June 3, we celebrated International Trails Day – an annual celebration of trails, trail development and the active lifestyle they encourage. On the West Coast, we met up with MEC Outdoor Impact partner [North Shore Mountain Bike Association](/en/explore/north-shore-mountain-bike-association) for a day of trail building and maintenance.  

Want to join us for a Trail Day? [Learn more](https://nsmba.ca/attending-a-trail-day/) about what to expect and sign up for the next event.  

*Photo: Our amazing team helped maintain the Expresso Trail at Mount Fromme for future bikers.*

### Trail Party with Hike MTL 

In Montreal, we joined MEC Outdoor Impact partner Hike MTL for their annual Trail Party. This event is an opportunity for BIPOC of all ages to learn about camp life in a safe environment while highlighting a sense of belonging. MEC staffers joined the event with games, hike workshops and prizes to celebrate the end of the summer season. 

*Photo: The Hike MTL crew met up in Saint-Hippolyte for a day of epic outdoor workshops.*

A major thank you to the incredible organizations who helped make these events a reality, and thanks to everyone who came out and had a blast with us. Here’s to another great summer in 2024! 

Stay tuned for more events as we launch into our celebrations of all things winter soon, with the return of the annual MEC x POW Season Opener (tickets go on sale October 5). 

## Related articles
- [The 10 essentials for hiking and camping](/en/explore/the-10-essentials-hiking-camping)
- How to choose a camping stove](/en/explore/choose-your-camp-stove)
- [Staying warm and sleeping warm](/en/explore/staying-warm-and-sleeping-warm)


Camp workshops, Pride, a new store and so much more. 

Everything We Did For Summer 2023

Everything we did for summer 2023

*One of our favourite parts of ski season? All the ski films that kick it off. MEC is proud to announce the world premiere of* People Like Us, *a short film that explores queer identity in mountain towns and the snowsports world by filmmaker Ryan Collins.*

*Check out the trailer, film screening dates, and a behind the scenes look about the creation of this film.*

People Like Us | Trailer

## What inspired People Like Us?
**Ryan**: I’ve negotiated my sexuality and role in the outdoor sports industry, and the small towns I find myself in, for many years. I’ve often asked myself what it is about the adventure industry and its rural settings that make me, a gay man, so uncomfortable. Is it the activity or the space? What is it like for other queer people in the industry?

*Photo by Laura Szanto*

I’ve explored this discomfort in the past both professionally and academically. I have worked throughout the outdoor industry, from surf, to rock, to snow. While each industry holds up a select few queer professionals, overall members of the 2SLGBTQIA+ still feel out of place.

*Photo by Laura Szanto*

I’m making *People Like Us* for this community, whether they’re a pro or a newbie. This film is for people who live, work, and play, in rural outdoor settings. People who maybe need more than a gay Olympic athlete to feel welcome. I aim to share stories and experiences that paint an honest picture of queer life in rural spaces and hopefully allow for conversations on how both the outdoor community and municipal communities alike can create a more inclusive environment.

## Fall 2023 film screenings
Interested in hosting a screening of your own? Fill out this [screening request form](https://docs.google.com/forms/d/e/1FAIpQLSfhepY5gduRtI5g_S3FSGkyjT9lcMSjY-22fFinyy7L0HkSEA/viewform) to get started. Keep an eye out for more dates and locations being added to the list below:

- October 14: [World premiere at MEC Vancouver, BC](https://www.eventbrite.ca/e/people-like-us-world-premiere-tickets-717992072617?aff=oddtdtcreator) 
- October 21: [iF3 Festival in Whistler, BC](https://urldefense.com/v3/__https://form.zonefestival.com/?k=ifff_f6ls__;!!M-aA1kM!1PXq22JMfc7cmIVBB_79aLDgxMbuuQWLbg3KIDovq2p1uC3d4AvYSERyIwoDTLezp5iiQiul1bA4KbBBkhMt$)
- October 26: [EVO Portland, Oregon](https://peoplelikeus.splashthat.com/)
- November 18: VIMFF Best of Fall Series in Vancouver, BC
- November 18: [Teton Valley Pride Alliance in Victor, ID](https://givebutter.com/peoplelikeus)
- November 30: [Whistler Film Festival in Whistler, BC (in-person and online)](https://www.whistlerfilmfestival.com/films/2023/mountain-culture-shorts-1)
- December 1: [Performance Series in Revelstoke, BC presented by MEC and Arts Revelstoke](https://artsrevelstoke.com/events/people-like-us-film-by-ryan-paul-collins-2023/)
- December 2: [Whistler Film Festival in Whistler, BC (in-person and online)](https://www.whistlerfilmfestival.com/films/2023/mountain-culture-shorts-1)
- December 22: [Fernie Pride Society in Fernie BC](https://www.zeffy.com/en-CA/ticketing/72f8393d-6592-42c5-a4a7-33ba5980ccc3)

*MEC supported People Like Us with funding and gear donations. Additional support for the film came from Mountain Hardwear and Story Hive.*

## Related articles
- [Queer Gear Kits](/en/explore/queer-gear-kits)
- [Kick off Pride season with MEC](/en/article/join-us-to-celebrate-pride-outside)
- [Giving Tuesday: Moving mountains together](/en/article/giving-tuesday-moving-mountains-together)


A short film that explores queer identity in mountain towns and the snowsports world.

Film premiere: People Like Us

Picture this: crisp air, clear skies, perfect friction on rock. If you love to climb, you're in for a treat this month. “Fall is prime season for climbers,” says MEC Ambassador [Emma Contaoe](/en/explore/emma-contaoe). “Most of us train all summer so that we get to send our projects in the fall when climbing conditions are ideal.”

Let's dive into a few reasons why September (a.k.a. Sendtember) is the best time of year for rock climbing. Plus, some top gear picks for this season.

## 1. Milder weather
Bid farewell to the scorching sun. September’s cooler temps creating an inviting atmosphere at crags across the country. Without the intense heat of summer, you can focus more on the climb and less on battling sweat. Just-right temperatures makes crushing projects truly enjoyable.

## 2. Strong and in the flow
When working on your strength for climbing, it’s important to start slow or risk injury (like a finger pulley injury), which can take a long time to recover. More often than not, September is when you hit your strongest climbing strength and feel the most confident in terms of the mental strength required for lead climbing. This combination will set you up for being ready to tackle your hardest projects.

> “I'm kicking off fall by hosting climbing clinics and a retreat, then heading to Spain and Portugal for a climbing trip. I’m excited to come back to Quebec to try projects I started in spring, and hopefully send them!” – MEC Ambassador Emma Contaoe

## 3. Less crowded crags
There’s nothing worse than getting to the route you’ve been planning to climb only to see four groups ahead of you waiting to go. With schools back in session and summer vacations ending, climbing destinations tend to be less crowded. This means more time spent climbing and less time waiting.

> “Most of the crags near me become less busy after the summer rush. On a smaller note, when the trees change colours it's quite majestic.” – MEC Ambassador [Sean McColl](/en/explore/sean-mccoll)

## 4. Optimal friction
Gripping holds and finding secure foot placements are the essence of climbing. September's cooler temperatures translate to better friction on rock surfaces. In simple terms, this means your hands and climbing shoes will find better purchase on the rock, which can give you the confidence to tackle more challenging routes.


## 5. Less buggy
Climbing’s all about focus, determination and flow. An unexpected insect buzzing around can throw you off balance and break that flow. Fortunately, September sees a decrease in insect activity compared to warmer months. This means you can focus on your climb without swatting at mosquitoes or other buzzing distractions during crux moves.

> “For fall comps, my focus is the PanAmerican championships in October. If I win, I'll punch my ticket to the Olympic Games in 2024. Outdoors, Squamish conditions will be prime and I'll be looking for my next project.” – MEC Ambassador Sean McColl

## Best gear for fall climbing
“It’s all about layering,” says Emma. “The [MEC Rockwall Midlayer](/en/product/6011-749/rockwall-midlayer) is comfortable and warm, yet breathable and flexible, so I can move easily on the rock. For an insulated jacket, the [MEC Northern Light Hoodie](/en/product/6016-911/northern-light-hoodie) is great to throw while belaying but light enough to climb with too.” 

“For fall layers, I’m excited to put on my [MEC Northern Light Hoodie](/en/product/6016-910/northern-light-hoodie),” says Sean. “There’s nothing better than feeling warm between attempts before taking it off for the send.”

Gear up, pack your chalk bag, and get after it. Next up: Rocktober.

## Related articles
- [How to start rock climbing](/en/explore/how-to-start-rock-climbing)
- [How to choose a climbing harness](/en/explore/how-to-choose-a-climbing-harness)
- [How to choose climbing shoes](/en/explore/choose-your-climbing-shoes)


Let's dive into a few reasons why September (a.k.a. Sendtember) is the best time of year for rock climbing.

5 reasons why September is the best month to go rock climbing

The MEC Toaster Suit first showed up in our catalogue in 1992 – yep, more than 30 years ago. Ever since then, the Toaster Suit has been a huge hit with parents and kiddos alike. So much so, that it almost always sells out (hint: that’s why we start talking about it in August).

One of our all-time favourite designs, this year’s version is easily our best yet. Here’s why parents have loved it for more than three decades, and why it’s good to get your hands on one before the mercury drops.

*Above: The Toaster Suit has gone through many evolutions over the years, along with plenty of colours and prints. Today’s versions are made with bluesign®-approved fabrics, which means a reduced environmental footprint.*

## They’re hand-me-down ready
We’ve heard it countless times since 1992 — Toaster Suits are legendary for their hand-me-down durability. Case in point: one MEC staffer told us she’s bought three Toaster Suits over the years for her son, and they held together so well that she was able to hand them down to her daughter… and then along to her nephew.

Over the years, we’ve made it even more durable. Redesigned and updated based on member feedback, Toaster Suits are waterproof and tougher than ever. Toast on!

> *“We have two of these suits and they’re awesome! Washed and worn endlessly over two years and still perfect. I only wish they came in bigger sizes.” – review from Liz888*
>
## They prevent tantrums
Few things are worse than “trying to get out the front door” tantrums. That’s why we’ve improved the Toaster Suit again and again over 30+ years to make it super easy to put on and take off. Your kid steps in, you zip it up, and voilá – they’re ready for snow. It’s even easy for kiddos to put on themselves before recess or at daycare. So, rest easy — they’ll always be cozy.

> *“This is the fourth winter with the MEC one piece snowsuit and we absolutely love them! My son is now in kindergarten and he find it’s quick and easy to take on and off independently.” – review from Momofboys*
>
## They stay warm and waterproof
With 300g of MEC Hyperloft insulation, the Toaster Suit just might be the coziest kids’ snowsuit out there. And it's waterproof-breathable too. That means kiddos can brave slushy, wet snow without getting soaked, cold and bummed out. Snow fort architects, toboggan pros, or recess rascals, the Toaster keeps the snowy good times rolling even when the going gets really, really cold.

> *“True to its name, it’s toasty warm even below -30C. My kids are now all approaching 20 and they still dream of the times they spent out in the winter wonderland on our acreage in Edmonton wearing these suits.” – review from CKP*


## There are clever details
Remember when powdery snow or slush would creep up your pantleg as a kid? If you don’t, your kiddo will remind you. To prevent dreaded slush and powder leaks, the Toaster features a foot cuff liner. 

And because we want every Toaster Suit to keep them warm season after season, we included a grow hem. The grow hem lets you undo a line of stitching at the ankle, allowing for a longer pant leg when the time comes. Neat, right? 

> *“We put our three kids through these suits. Outstanding. It was worn under Halloween costumes, in strollers, playing in the park and at daycare. One suit was worn by all three, and still solid enough to be handed down…” – review from Denis*
>
## Snowsuits are just the beginning...
With Toaster Suit being such a huge hit, the Toaster name now spans an entire collection of winter go-tos. Gloves, snow pants, parkas, hats and more – the entire range is purpose-built to keep kids cozy and happy as clams. 

For new parents (and parents-to-be), check out the [Toaster Bunting Suit](/en/product/5037-265/toaster-bunting-suit). Just as warm and insulated as the Toaster Suit, it keeps infants warm, even if they aren’t wriggling around quite yet. 


### But it’s August... why talk Toaster Suits now?
It might seem a bit weird to talk about snowsuits before there’s even a hint of snow in the forecast. Thing is, Toaster Suits sell out fast – especially when the temperatures really start to dip. 

Our advice? Get your hands on the colour and sizes you’ll need now – and before things get chilly. The last thing you want is to run around looking for that right size when the first October snow drops. And you can let them pick their favorite colour, too.

Whatever you need to keep them warm this winter, the Toaster Collection has you and (most importantly) them covered. Stay toasty out there.

## Related articles
- [Outdoor clothing tips to keep your kids warm all winter](/en/article/the-ultimate-guide-to-keeping-your-kids-warm-all-winter)
- [How to enjoy winter activities with kids](/en/explore/how-to-enjoy-winter-activities-with-kids)
- [How to choose the best backpacks for kids](/en/article/7-tips-to-find-the-best-backpacks-for-school)

Why has the MEC Toaster Suit been a hit for 30+ years?

30+ years of MEC Toaster Suit coziness

30+ years of Toaster Suit coziness

If you like to get outside and stay warm, you’re probably familiar with down insulation. It might be in your favourite winter coat, your sleeping bag, or even in the duvet on your bed. It’s a great insulator for outdoor activities since it’s lightweight, compresses small, and keeps you toasty.  

Which is why we’re excited to announce a totally new option for MEC Label products: recycled down. It’s the first time ever we’ve been able to do this – and you can see it in action in the Classic Bush Pilot Down Sweater, part of the limited-edition [MEC Classics Collection](/en/p/mec-classics-collection).  

Find out what makes recycled down so special, where it comes from, and what to expect next. 

## Why recycled down?  

When our Vancouver-based MEC Label team started to design the Classics Collection, it felt like the perfect chance to try something new with materials. Recycled content is a goal for the materials we use, and recycled polyester and nylon is something we’ve been doing for years. So this time, we set our sights on a whole different material: recycled down. 

Down has a long lifespan. As a material, it’s well-suited to use over and over again. Even better, recycled down helps us address the growing issue of textile waste. The recycled down in the Bush Pilot Down Sweater comes from post-consumer products (like bedding or pillows) that would otherwise have gone to the landfill, which means we’re helping to keep perfectly good materials out of the waste stream.  

*The MEC Classic Bush Pilot Down Sweater uses RENU:700 Performance Recycled Down. The 700 stands for 700-fill-power, which gives you great warmth-to-weight ratio.*

## Where does the down come from? 

We work with ALLIED Feather + Down for our RENU:700 Performance Recycled Down. Each season, they collect about 500,000 pillows and comforters that are otherwise destined for the landfill. They grade the items by quality and colour, then sort it into piles.  

> Did you know? Over 37kg of textile waste per person ends up in landfills each year ([source](https://earth.org/statistics-about-fast-fashion-waste/#:~:text=In%20America%20alone%2C%20an%20estimated,2%2C150%20pieces%20per%20second%20countrywide.)) – about the same weight as 544 Clif bars. Recycled down is one way to reduce this waste. 

Next up: an intense washing process to sterilize the down, using [bluesign®-approved](/en/article/what-the-heck-is-bluesign) washing methods. Finally, there’s one last round of sorting to remove any broken feathers or fibres. One thing that’s especially nice about this whole process is acts as a bit of natural selection with the down clusters – the ones that remain at the end are very strong and give great loft per cluster. Recycled down retains its performance, so as long as you take care of your gear, you won’t even notice a difference. 

*Recycled down goes through an intensive grading, sorting and cleaning process to get it ready to be used again. Photo: ALLIED Feather + Down.*

## What’s next for recycled down?  

One of the great parts of trying recycled down in the Classics Collection is that we can experiment in a limited-edition run. We get to dabble in new ideas and materials in smaller quantities to make sure members love it. 

So far, recycled down has been a hit with our design team. We’re excited to introduce this material into another product coming up; keep your eye out this fall for the MEC Label Bromont Ski Jacket with recycled down. 

*Close-up of a down cluster, the magic behind down’s ability to give you awesome warmth for weight. Thousands of tiny filaments radiate out and connect with filaments from other clusters, which creates what ALLIED calls a “structural web of insulating air.” Photo: ALLIED Feather + Down*

## Recycled down vs RDS-certified down 

Some of you may be asking how recycled down stacks up against [RDS-certified down](/en/explore/animal-welfare) (Responsible Down Standard). We asked ourselves this question too, as both kinds of down have more positive impacts:   

- RDS-certified down ensures that ducks and geese are raised humanely, with no live plucking or force feeding.  

- Recycled down ensures waste does not pollute our environment and helps in our transition to a more circular economy.  

Comparing RDS-certified down to recycled down is like comparing apples to oranges: both are great options and it’s hard to definitively say which is better. Something we’re looking forward to? Down suppliers are working on ways to verify that recycled down is also RDS-certified, which would be the best of the best when it comes to down.  

One thing we can say for certain, though, is that all down used in MEC Label gear will be either 100% recycled down or (for virgin down) 100% RDS-certified. 


## How to look after your down products 

A little TLC keeps your down jackets and sleeping bags lasting longer. Check out our videos and articles on [how to wash a down jacket](/en/explore/how-to-wash-a-down-jacket) and [how to wash a sleeping bag](/en/explore/cleaning-down-clothing-and-sleeping-bags) for expert tips.  


*If you have down products that you want to recycle, check out [RENU bedding](https://renubedding.com/index.html) to find out more.*

## Related articles
- [Wool garments for the outdoors](/en/explore/wool-garments-for-the-outdoors)
- [How to wash waterproof jackets and pants](/en/explore/caring-for-a-waterproof-jacket)
- [Waterproof vs. water-resistant fabrics](/en/explore/waterproof-vs.-water-resistant-fabrics)


Keeping textile waste out of the landfill and giving it new life.

Now landing: recycled down at MEC

The best times outside usually involve people to share them with – your hiking partner, your riding buddies, your family camp crew. So when we got major news, we had to share it with our outdoor communities. We also want to say a huge thank you for making it happen.

MEC just tied for top place as [Canada’s Most Trusted Brand](https://www.uvic.ca/gustavson/brandtrust/top-10/index.php), alongside COSTCO. This isn’t the first time we’ve received this accolade from The Gustavson Brand Trust Index (we also held top spot in 2020 and 2019). But it’s the time we’re most proud to politely toot our outdoorsy horn, because we shot up to the summit from eighth place last year to first place this year.

We know you have a lot of choices out there, and shopping for outdoor gear looks wildly different than it did when we started with a one-page catalogue in the early 1970s. We also know that some things don’t change – gear that’s made to last will help you get outside for life. 

“We’re always challenging our teams to innovate, so you get gear that combines quality, sustainably sourced materials, and has just the right features you need,” says Michele Guimond, VP of Marketing at MEC. “We want to offer products that are made for the long run. Buy once, buy right.”

**To members**: We love hearing your plans and dreams, your questions and feedback. We want to match you with just the right gear for your hike, climb, ski, bike, paddle – you name it. We’re stoked every time you choose MEC.

**To staffers**: You live and breathe getting outside, and you bridge the gap between our stores and the outdoors. Your advice, knowledge and stories are a huge part of the reason people keep coming back, over and over again. 

**To everyone** who’s been part of MEC’s journey for five decades and running: Thank you for choosing us, for trusting us with your outdoor gear, for being members for life.

## Want to know more about the award?
Glad you asked (it wouldn’t be a trusted brand award without transparency). MEC was recognized as Canada’s Most Trusted Brand – tied with COSTCO – in the ninth annual Gustavson Brand Trust Index (GBTI) presented by the Peter B. Gustavson School of Business at the University of Victoria.

This year GBTI featured 407 national and global brands across 33 categories, and more than 13,000 impartial adult consumers participated in the survey. The survey measures brand trust, and different dimensions of trust that influence whether people recommend a brand to their networks: values-based trust, functional trust, relationship trust and word of mouth. For more details, see the [full report](https://www.uvic.ca/gustavson/brandtrust/assets/docs/2023/gustavson-brand-trust-2023-final.pdf).

## Related articles
- [The real deal behind Fair Trade at MEC](/en/article/the-real-deal-behind-fair-trade-at-mec)
- [Bag share program](/en/article/bag-share-program)
- [Return to the mountain: more than a logo](/en/article/return-to-the-mountain)


MEC just tied for top place as Canada’s Most Trusted Brand, alongside COSTCO. A huge thank you to members and staffers for making it happen.

Thank You! MEC Tied for Canada’s Most Trusted Brand

Thank you! MEC tied for Canada’s most trusted brand

Happy Pride Month! This year, MEC strongly believes that showing our Pride is more important than ever. We’ll be recognizing and celebrating 2SLGBTQIA+ communities in the outdoors and beyond, and we can’t wait to show you what we’ve got planned. 

## Return of Queer Gear Kits 

After last year’s super successful launch, we’re excited to announce that [Queer Gear Kits](/en/explore/queer-gear-kits) are back. MEC wants to increase equity in the outdoors, and these grants help support 2SLGBTQIA+ community groups getting more folks outside.  

Last year's recipients are using the Queer Gear Kits grant for all kinds of awesome outdoor plans – everything from land-based cultural activities to camping retreats and bikepacking trips. Take a look at our chat with [last year’s recipients](/en/article/meet-the-2022-queer-gear-kit-recipients) to how they’re using these grants and the impact the grants are having for their community groups. 

### What’s in a Queer Gear Kit?  

- **$1,000** grant for outdoor activities with your community group  

- **Epic camp set-up** for your crew (tents, sleeping bags, camp kitchen gear and more)  

- **Pride outside gear** from MEC  

Applications are open **June 1 to 30** (we’ll contact recipients in August). Spread the word if you know any groups that would be interested. 

## Base Camp Duffle Artist Collab 

Pride month is an opportunity to showcase the talents of incredible 2SLGBTQIA+ artists across the country, so we’ve teamed up with our friends at The North Face for an exciting collaboration. We’ve worked with four artists from Vancouver, Calgary, Toronto and Montreal to customize iconic The North Face Base Camp Duffles in their own unique ways – and you have a chance to take one home. 

You can see the finished designs on our [Base Camp Artist Duffle Collab page](/en/explore/base-camp-duffle-artist-collab), or in-person at MEC Vancouver, Calgary, Toronto and Montreal. The best part? You can enter our raffle for a chance to win one. All raffle proceeds will go to The Canadian Centre for Gender and Sexual Diversity. 

Buy your raffle tickets **before June 30**.

## Out and About Pride 

Ready to get this Pride party started? Join us in-stores for free events to celebrate Pride, use our climbing wall (beginner climbers welcome!), win prizes, and meet community groups. There’ll be music, giveaways, cold plunge fundraisers, local climbing crews to connect with, and much more. We have a hunch these events are going to be super popular, and we’d love to see you there. 

**See event details:** 

- MEC Vancouver: August 5–6  

- MEC Calgary: August 19-20  

- MEC Toronto: June 24-25  

- MEC Montreal: August 5-6  

## Love Letters, in collaboration with Leah Day 
  
We partnered up with Vancouver-based multi-disciplinary artist Leah Day to transform the MEC twin peaks into special in-store installations at six stores across Canada.  

Stop by one of the stores listed below to see the incredible art piece she’s created. Come by, spread some love and leave your own note on the installation to share with your local community. 

**Love letters installation** 

- [MEC Vancouver](/en/stores/vancouver): July 24 – August 13  

- [MEC Victoria](/en/stores/victoria): June 19 – July 16   

- [MEC Calgary](/en/stores/calgary): August 14 – September 10   

- [MEC Toronto](/en/stores/toronto): June 12–July 12  

- [MEC Ottawa](/en/stores/ottawa): August 7 – September 3   

- [MEC Montreal](/en/stores/montreal): July 31 – August 20 

**About Leah Day**:  

Leah Day 
IG: [@leahdayarts](https://www.instagram.com/leahdayarts/)  
[leahdayarts.com](https://www.leahdayarts.com/)  



Originally from the wilds of the Yukon Territory, Leah is an artist, avid naturalist, and fierce environmentalist who cares deeply for our environment and all beings who live on our earth.

## Our commitment to diversity, equity and inclusion 

MEC is committed to being a DEI leader in the outdoor space, and Pride month is the perfect time to reflect on the work we do year-round to create and nurture a culture of belonging and build an inclusive community for our staffers. The past few years have been a time of learning and growth for MEC; some of the many initiatives we’ve adopted include unconscious bias training, inclusive bathrooms, a practice of sharing inclusive community agreements at every meeting, and an evolving collection of resources and training programs which help staffers continue to learn from the lived experiences of others. A dedicated DEIB (diversity, equity, inclusion, belonging) Committee provides a platform for open dialogue and collaboration which centers the diverse voices of our staffers, to ensure our work is driven from within.  

This June, as every year, you’ll see many of our staffers sporting the Pride flag in the stores. Internally, we’ll celebrate with a series of events, from Pride-themed Field Experiences (outdoor-based gear and activity education sessions for retail staff) to fireside chats, to film screenings and more. At each moment of coming together, we ask one another to reflect on what Pride means to each of us, and how we can all make the outdoors more inclusive, no matter the month of the year.  

While we love, love, LOVE celebrating Pride, it’s important to note that building and fostering an inclusive workplace is a practice, not a project. We are excited to continue to grow and deepen this practice over years to come. 

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- [Film premiere: People Like Us](/en/article/film-premiere-people-like-us)
- [MEC’s journey towards Truth and Reconciliation](/en/article/mecs-journey-towards-truth-and-reconciliation)


Check out the events, collabs and more we have planned for Pride. 

Kick off Pride season with MEC

At MEC, we love the outdoors. But we also recognize that it isn’t always the most accessible or equitable place. So last year, we launched [Queer Gear Kits](/en/explore/queer-gear-kits) – annual grants to support 2SLGBTQIA+ community groups getting more folks outside. 

“Recreating outdoors can be intimidating, exclusive and cost prohibitive, whether it be due to safety, gear requirements or perceived experience level,” said Nicola, Colleen and Jessie from The Monthly Cycle, one of last year’s Queer Gear Kits recipients. “Ironically, it’s some of these systemic barriers that make the act of going outside all the more important to the wellness of different groups!” 

With 64 applicants in its inaugural year, it was incredibly tough to choose among all the great candidates. Congrats to Edmonton 2 Spirit Society, UBC CampOUT! and The Monthly Cycle – the 2022 recipients doing incredible work in their communities. Read on to learn about their outdoorsy plans.  

## Want to apply for 2023 Queer Gear Kit grants? 

We’re opening Queer Gear Kits grant applications again, and we’re beyond excited. Spread the word if you know any groups that would be interested. **Grant applications are open June 1 to 30, 2023** (we’ll contact recipients in August).  

## Edmonton 2 Spirit Society 

[Edmonton 2 Spirit Society](https://e2s.ca/) (E2S) is an intergenerational non-profit organization that was built upon a foundation laid by other 2 Spirit leaders doing the same work in earlier years. They work with 2 Spirit and Indigenous Queer, Trans and Intersex people (2SIQTIP) and their kinship circles to ensure safer and more inclusive access to social, cultural and ceremonial support.  

*Cheyenne (they/them), Interim Executive Director of Edmonton 2 Spirit Society let us know what they’ve got planned:* 

**How will your group use the Queer Gear Kits grant?**

We’re aiming to use the kits to engage in land-based cultural activities that center 2SIQTIP and their kinship circles. There’s a distinct lack of 2 Spirit led and operated culture camps in and around amiskwacîwâskahikan, colonially known as Edmonton, and E2S hopes to develop programming to address this need. We have big dreams of hosting hide tanning camps, fasting ceremonies, and 2 Spirit regional gatherings, all of which will make use of the items in the Queer Gear Kits.  

> This grant will support our endeavors to bring 2SIQTIP community members outdoors and onto the land in more inclusive settings.  

**Why was the Edmonton 2 Sprit Society interested in this grant?**   

For many urban 2SIQTIP individuals, it can be difficult to access land-based activities that are inclusive of gender and sexual diversity. Connection to the land is such an integral part of many Indigenous communities however this was disrupted due to colonial processes. We wanted to apply to support future programs aimed at repairing our connection to the land. 

## UBC CampOUT 

Based in Vancouver, [CampOUT!](https://campout.ubc.ca/) is an annual leadership and community development program that brings 2SLGBTQ+ youth between the ages of 14 to 21 together in an outdoor summer camp environment. They’re committed to removing financial barriers so all interested individuals can experience the outdoors, gain leadership skills, grow awareness of social issues, access critical health literacy resources and return to their home communities with networks of support.  

*Anna (she/her), Camp Director of CampOUT!, let us know what’s coming up:* 

**How will CampOUT use the Queer Gear Kits grant?**  

This year will be our first full capacity in-person camp since 2019, and we’re excited to offer a tenting program alongside the cabin experience. We’ll have 60 campers, 5 cabins, and a bunch of MEC tents! For campers that would like to try sleeping under the stars, we’ll be able to offer them tents, sleeping bags, sleeping mats and their very own cabin leader to really get that campy experience while at CampOUT! Our goal is to aid campers in gaining the skills and confidence they can use to continue to create camping shelters year-round. 

**What’s something you wish more people knew about your group?**  

While there are lots of pay-for-service outdoor camping opportunities for youth, it’s important to us that CampOUT! does not have financial barriers.  

> For 2SLGBTQ+ youth, a price tag on a program may prevent a young person from even talking to their parent/caregivers about it.  

Campers have dubbed our supporters their faerie/fairy godparents making this program accessible to queer, trans, Two-Spirit, and questioning youth regardless of their economic situation or if their families value an inclusive leadership program for 2SLGBTQ+ folks. 

## The Monthly Cycle 

[The Monthly Cycle](https://www.instagram.com/themonthlycyclehfx/) organizes monthly social rides for women, trans, femme and non-binary riders in Halifax, Nova Scotia. Since starting in 2021, they’ve offered group rides and supplementary workshops that promote the idea that cycling can (and should be) fun, safe and inclusive. The mission of The Monthly Cycle is to welcome, encourage and uplift riders that are underrepresented in cycling, and to foster a safe space for building confidence on two wheels.  

*The Monthly Cycle’s three organizers – Nicola (she/her), Colleen (she/her) and Jessie (she/her) – shared more:* 

**How will the Monthly Cycle use the gear from this grant?** 

The gear will primarily be used to support our riders during the annual Full Moon Campout, our beginner-friendly bikepacking trip that occurs each fall. Last year, 23 folks – most of whom had never tried bikepacking – rode 35km of coastal gravel trails to a beautiful provincial park to camp.  

These trips are preceded by a workshop where riders can ask questions about bike-powered adventures in a safe space, and donated and borrowed gear can be distributed so attendees can trial pack and ride their rigs. We’re also in the process of establishing our own TMC gear library that can serve our community year-round, and the amazing gear we secured through this grant is helping us get there! 

**Why is getting outside so important to the folks in your group?**  

We believe that everyone should be able to experience the joys of self-supported travel. Sadly, the reality is that the barriers to cycling are disproportionately experienced by queer women, trans (men and women), femme and non-binary riders. We’re slow-rolling the patriarchy, one group ride at a time. 

> We’re committed to breaking systemic barriers down with the provision of a safe, inclusive space to build confidence on two wheels. 

*Huge thank yous to all the groups building outdoor communities from coast to coast. We can’t wait to hear about your plans in this year’s [Queer Gear Kits applications](/en/explore/queer-gear-kits).*

## Related articles
- [Kick off Pride season with MEC](/en/article/join-us-to-celebrate-pride-outside)
- [Queer Gear Kits](/en/explore/queer-gear-kits)
- [This new outdoor alliance is something to celebrate](/en/article/this-new-outdoor-alliance-is-something-to-celebrate)


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