For many LGBTQ+ travellers, Pride is more than a parade. It’s a celebration of identity, history, and freedom. If you’ve ever wondered where to go for a global Pride experience, you’re in the right place. Whether it’s your first time celebrating abroad or you’re looking for your next destination, discovering Prides Abroad opens the door to unforgettable journeys.
Unlike other travel moments, Pride festivals offer a unique mix of culture, politics, and celebration. You’re not just visiting a city; you’re joining a community. And that experience stays with you long after your flight home.
Why Travel for Pride?
Travelling for Pride is a powerful act of visibility and connection. It lets you celebrate in cities that reflect your values and welcome you with open arms. Plus, it adds a vibrant highlight to your holiday calendar.
Some travellers plan their entire year around global Pride dates. Others stumble upon a local festival and find themselves swept into the energy of the moment. Either way, joining Prides Abroad transforms your trip into something truly personal.
Where to Begin? Timing is Everything
Pride season doesn’t just mean June anymore. From cold winter nights to hot summer streets, there's a festival happening somewhere in the world almost every month. All you need is the right destination at the right time.
Here’s how to plan your perfect Pride getaway.
January – Cape Town, South Africa
Cape Town Pride is one of Africa’s most welcoming LGBT+ events. Held in late February (with related events in January), it brings together a week of film, dance, and vibrant marches.
How Gay Friendly is South Africa?
- Legal since: 1998
- Same-sex marriage: Legal since 2006
- Discrimination: Illegal based on sexuality
- Employment protections: Yes
- Equal age of consent: Yes
- Public opinion: Mixed but improving, especially in urban areas
Thinking of heading there? Ask us about hotel options near Green Point.
February – Sydney, Australia
Sydney Mardi Gras is one of the largest and most iconic LGBT+ celebrations in the world. The night-time parade down Oxford Street draws hundreds of thousands. It’s bold, inclusive, and unforgettable.
How Gay Friendly is Australia?
- Legal since: 1997 (varies by state earlier)
- Same-sex marriage: Legal since 2017
- Discrimination: Illegal nationwide
- Employment protections: Yes
- Equal age of consent: Yes
- Public opinion: Very supportive
We have excellent partner hotels along Oxford Street for Mardi Gras season.
March – Tokyo, Japan (Rainbow Reel Film Festival)
While Tokyo Rainbow Pride is in May, March features the Rainbow Reel Tokyo Film Festival. It’s a quieter cultural event that’s perfect for those who want a deeper look at LGBT+ voices in Asia.
How Gay Friendly is Japan?
- Legal since: 1880
- Same-sex marriage: Not recognised nationally (some local recognition)
- Discrimination: No national law
- Employment protections: Not consistent
- Equal age of consent: Yes
- Public opinion: Growing support, especially among youth
Book early to stay near Shibuya or Shinjuku – ideal neighbourhoods for queer travellers.
April – São Paulo, Brazil (Warm-up Events)
Although São Paulo Pride takes place in June, April features major warm-up events and beach parties along the coast. These give you a taste of what’s to come without the crowds.
How Gay Friendly is Brazil?
- Legal since: 1830
- Same-sex marriage: Legal since 2013
- Discrimination: Illegal, though enforcement varies
- Employment protections: Yes
- Equal age of consent: Yes
- Public opinion: Regional differences, more welcoming in major cities
Our partners offer safe, centrally located accommodation close to Avenida Paulista.
May – Malta
Malta’s Pride Week is smaller but deeply heartfelt. It’s usually held in September, but May often features queer-friendly arts and political events, making it a gentle intro to Prides Abroad.
How Gay Friendly is Malta?
- Legal since: 1973
- Same-sex marriage: Legal since 2017
- Discrimination: Illegal
- Employment protections: Yes
- Equal age of consent: Yes
- Public opinion: One of the most supportive in Europe
Stay in Valletta or Sliema for access to Pride venues and beach escapes.
Jamie Says: "The joy of attending Pride abroad isn’t just in the big events. It’s in the small moments – when you find yourself dancing in the street, making friends from around the world, and realising that being visible matters everywhere."
June – Everywhere!
June is Pride Month, so your options explode. Some of the most exciting events include:
- New York City, USA – The birthplace of modern Pride.
- Berlin, Germany – Known as Christopher Street Day (CSD), it’s edgy and political.
- Barcelona, Spain – Combining beach vibes with bold parades.
How Gay Friendly is Germany?
- Legal since: 1969
- Same-sex marriage: Legal since 2017
- Discrimination: Illegal
- Employment protections: Yes
- Equal age of consent: Yes
- Public opinion: Strongly supportive
We have Berlin hotel offers during CSD season – ask us for details.
How Gay Friendly is Spain?
- Legal since: 1979
- Same-sex marriage: Legal since 2005
- Discrimination: Illegal
- Employment protections: Yes
- Equal age of consent: Yes
- Public opinion: One of the most accepting globally
Want to join the Pride parade near the Sagrada Familia? We can help.
July – Amsterdam, Netherlands
Amsterdam Pride features the world-famous Canal Parade, where boats become floats and the whole city joins in. It’s equal parts charming and energising.
How Gay Friendly is the Netherlands?
- Legal since: 1811
- Same-sex marriage: Legal since 2001 (first in the world)
- Discrimination: Illegal
- Employment protections: Yes
- Equal age of consent: Yes
- Public opinion: Highly supportive
Central canal-view stays go quickly – talk to us about early booking deals.
August – Reykjavik, Iceland
Iceland’s capital may be small, but its Pride packs a punch. The city turns rainbow with concerts, drag shows, and family-friendly events.
How Gay Friendly is Iceland?
- Legal since: 1940
- Same-sex marriage: Legal since 2010
- Discrimination: Illegal
- Employment protections: Yes
- Equal age of consent: Yes
- Public opinion: Extremely welcoming
We recommend cosy hotels near Hallgrímskirkja for great access and views.
September – Copenhagen, Denmark
Copenhagen hosted WorldPride in 2021 and remains one of Europe’s most progressive cities. September is perfect for fewer crowds and great weather.
How Gay Friendly is Denmark?
- Legal since: 1933
- Same-sex marriage: Legal since 2012
- Discrimination: Illegal
- Employment protections: Yes
- Equal age of consent: Yes
- Public opinion: Consistently inclusive
Let us know if you want to add on a stop in Malmö, Sweden – just across the bridge!
October – Taipei, Taiwan
Asia’s largest Pride takes place in Taipei each October. It’s bold, bright, and politically significant. Taiwan was the first in Asia to legalise same-sex marriage.
How Gay Friendly is Taiwan?
- Legal since: 2001
- Same-sex marriage: Legal since 2019
- Discrimination: Illegal
- Employment protections: Yes
- Equal age of consent: Yes
- Public opinion: Broadly supportive in urban areas
Ask us about staying near Ximending – Taipei’s LGBT+ hub.
November – Buenos Aires, Argentina
The city of tango and romance offers a full week of Pride activities. The march through downtown Buenos Aires is passionate and proud.
How Gay Friendly is Argentina?
- Legal since: 1887
- Same-sex marriage: Legal since 2010
- Discrimination: Illegal
- Employment protections: Yes
- Equal age of consent: Yes
- Public opinion: Widely positive
Stay close to Plaza de Mayo for easy access to events and nightlife.
December – Puerto Vallarta, Mexico
A favourite for North American travellers, Puerto Vallarta blends beach bliss with a festive LGBT+ scene. December offers year-round warmth and weekly Pride-style nightlife.
How Gay Friendly is Mexico?
- Legal since: 1871
- Same-sex marriage: Legal nationwide since 2022
- Discrimination: Illegal
- Employment protections: Yes
- Equal age of consent: Yes
- Public opinion: Growing support, varies by region
Zona Romántica has great LGBT+ resorts – we have favourites to share.
Booking With Confidence – Protections That Matter
When you book through Wide Awake Holidays, you benefit from the protection of our ATOL license and membership with
Protected Trust Services (PTS).
- ATOL: If your trip includes a flight and something goes wrong, you won’t lose your money.
- PTS: Your money is held securely in a trust account and only used to pay for your holiday.
- Supplier Failure Insurance (SFI): Covers you if one of our partners goes out of business.
- Scheduled Airline Failure Insurance (SAFI): Protects you if your airline stops operating.
In short: you’re never travelling alone. You’ve got us behind you.
Let Pride Be Your Reason to Travel
Celebrating Prides Abroad isn’t just about ticking off destinations. It’s about connecting with something bigger – a global family that knows no borders.
And if you’re unsure where to begin, let us help you find your place in the crowd.
Call us on 01495 400947 or use our holiday enquiry form to start your journey today. Pride happens every day somewhere in the world – your perfect celebration is waiting.
