With an array of worldwide parades and parties throughout the year, you’ve got your pick of fabulous gay-friendly holiday destinations for an LGBTQ+ celebration like no other! Whether you opt for a city carnival or a beachside festival, get ready for the time of your life.
New York Pride, June
The place where it all began, NYC Pride is a must-do at least once in your life! Whether you join the march past the Stonewall Monument, soak up the vibes at the PrideFest street fair in Greenwich Village or bag tickets for the annual Bliss Days party at the glam rooftop venue at The DL, New York is a hot pick for your Pride celebrations.
Other big hitter events in the States take place in San Francisco, California, and both Miami and Key West in Florida. Plus they’re all fantastically LGBTQ+ friendly spots year round, so get that beach break booked!
Gay Pride Berlin, July
The gay scene in Germany’s capital has been famous for around a century, so it’s no surprise that Christopher Street Day Berlin Pride (or CSD Berlin) is one of the oldest on the planet - and one of the best. The main event is, of course, the sensational parade to Brandenburg Gate and its huge after party, or you might prefer the more laid-back Dyke March and Kreuzberg Pride.
Want to see more of LGBTQ+ friendly Berlin? Get to know the ‘rainbow’ neighbourhoods (such as Schöneberg), gay and lesbian nightlife, and the fascinating Schwules Museum as well. The city’s a real eye-opener for how acceptance can look and a must for your bucket list!
Pride Amsterdam, July / August
It’s just a short hop across the North Sea, but that’s not the only reason gay Brits love Amsterdam Pride so much. Held when the summer’s in full swing, it’s a perfect follow-on from our own festivities. Don’t miss the opening party in beautiful Vondelpark, the famous Canal Parade and the insane Rapido dance party!
Want to be there? Book early for next year as it’s always one of the busiest weekends in the capital of the Netherlands. We’d hate for you to miss out!
Out and proud in Amsterdam >>>
Bangkok Pride, June
Did you know you don’t have to stick to Western destinations? Go exotic with a trip to LGBTQ+ friendly Thailand. With its wild nightlife and inclusive culture, Bangkok’s the perfect destination for an unforgettable Naruemit Pride, as it’s known locally - and we’re so happy this annual event is back up and running after a decade-long break!
Alternatively, visit in April for Thai New Year and the huge Songkran Bangkok gCircuit Party. Or how about some chill time combining Pattaya’s legendary beach life and the Circuit Asia weekend in early June?
Party in the Land of Smiles >>>
Winter Pride Maspalomas, November
Who said Pride had to take place in summer! Spain’s an awesome destination for LGBTQ+ sun-seekers all year round. Why not revel in the sunshine at one of the country’s best gay-friendly beach resorts for Maspalomas Winter Pride in Gran Canaria? That’s not all, the town hosts a May event too, and there’s also the island’s Freedom Gay Festival in September.
If the Canary Islands aren’t for you, check out Spain’s other top Prides in Madrid, Barcelona, Sitges and Ibiza (all June), Torremolinos (May) and Benidorm (September). That’s a lot of drag shows to choose from!
Pride in London, June / July
We couldn’t miss London Pride from our list! For starters, the city’s one of the best places for LGBTQ+ travel, with tons of clubs and other welcoming venues across the Big Smoke - most famously in Soho and Vauxhall. Pride aside, uncover the liberal history of Victorian Bloomsbury, follow the LGBTQ trail around the British Museum, or check out September’s Fringe! Queer Film and Arts Fest.
Marking its 50th anniversary in 2022, London’s parade is usually held in early July, though Pride month here is June. And why not! It’s the perfect finale to a month of marches and celebrations all over the UK, such as the hugely popular Pride Edinburgh.
*First published 2022*
About the author
Lucy spent 18 years writing about all kinds of holidays at the old Thomas Cook, and, after a short stint as a freelance copywriter, is now back and loving life on the new-look content team!