How it all started.
In 1991, a group of friends decided that they wanted to create a party, a big party and invite their friends and associated to join them. The reason was to celebrate, but also give the proceeds to a good cause.

That year 800 people attended the party, an event they called the "Black & Blue". The party is now a full-fledged festival of social, cultural sports and social events that lasts 7 days. In 2002, more than 80,000 people from all over Canada, USA Europe, Australia, South America and New Zealand attended the events.

The initial group of friends has grown and evolved to what is now a registered non-profit foundation. A very proud foundation that had been able to create an internationally renowned project, donating $1,100,000 so far and will generate more than $300 million in tourism spin-offs for the Montreal economy.

All proceeds from these events are generated by and remitted to the BBCM Foundation for the main causes it supports, a cause that affects women, men and children, straight and gay. The cause is AIDS. The foundation has been a large and key supporter to most of Montreal's AIDS support organizations for the last 13 years. These organizations provide day-to-day financial, health and social resources for people living with AIDS. The foundation also supports gay and lesbian community groups.

There are some parties that could be anywhere - and then there is Black and Blue. The BBCM's biggest and most recognized event, the Black and Blue Festival will take place during the Canadian Thanksgiving / American Columbus Day Weekend and will include a series of parties and socio-cultural events. The Black and Blue Party moves to its new location at the newly revamped Montreal Convention Centre. This year's main event will be done in collaboration with an artistic director from the world famous Montreal based Cirque Du Soleil and promises to dazzle partygoers. This incredible festival week serves as a musical showcase for the most talented DJ/Producers in the world. Black and Blue invites you to strap yourself in one more time. This ever-changing, visual spectacle will spark your imagination this fall while surrounding your senses with light, sound and fantastic imagery. All your favorites: Jock Ball, Leather Ball, Military Ball, Recovery and Closing Parties return. Also this year, experience a unique event ­ the dance ritual Earth, Saturday afternoon at Club Unity - you must enter before 3pm. For information, tickets and VIP passes email information@bbcm.org. This is the largest festival of its kind with over 50 activities including major dance parties, art exhibits, brunches, cocktails, museum visits, sports events, etc. Early purchase of VIP Passes for the Black and Blue Festival is recommended