How to Celebrate LGBT+ History Month Beyond February: Celebrate Pride Abroad All Year

LGBT+ History Month gives us time to reflect, learn, and honour the stories of those who came before us. But does the celebration really have to end with February? At Wide Awake Holidays, we don’t think so. The visibility, connection, and community we experience during LGBT+ History Month should extend far beyond a single page in the calendar. Whether you’re someone who regularly travels on gay holidays or you’re planning your first LGBT-friendly escape, this guide will show you how to celebrate Pride abroad throughout the year — without waiting for June or being confined to one place or identity.

Travelling offers a meaningful way to connect with global LGBT communities, embrace diverse cultures, and mark our shared history. Let’s explore how you can keep celebrating, no matter the season.

For many, LGBT+ History Month is a time for education, remembrance, and pride. But once March arrives, many of the conversations and celebrations begin to quiet down. That doesn’t mean they have to.

Here’s why it’s worth carrying the spirit of February with you wherever — and whenever — you go:

Pride isn’t a one-month event. Different countries celebrate at different times, often shaped by local weather, political events, or historical anniversaries. This creates an opportunity to join Pride parades and festivals almost any time of year — not just in June.

Visiting a destination known for its queer history or culture helps turn learning into experience. You might visit museums, tour historical neighbourhoods, or simply meet locals whose stories mirror — or challenge — your own.

Spending money in LGBT-owned venues, staying at inclusive hotels, and choosing destinations that value equality can uplift queer communities around the globe.

We’ve outlined specific destinations further down, but here are ten practical and meaningful ways you can mark LGBT+ history all year, no matter where you are:

Below are some of the top destinations where you can celebrate Pride and LGBT history throughout the year. Each location offers a blend of culture, celebration, and community — and all are places where we regularly tailor trips for our clients.

Madrid’s  Orgullo (Pride)  is a true standout — a week-long festival in early July that fills the city with parades, parties, concerts, and calls for equality. The Chueca district is alive with colour, but Madrid is a destination that values inclusivity all year round.

It’s a city that doesn’t need a reason to celebrate.

Where to stay : The  Axel Hotel Madrid  is stylish and unpretentious, offering a great base in the heart of Chueca.
Ask Wide Awake Holidays about current offers available for this hotel.

Held in  late February , Cape Town’s Pride week is more than just a party. It’s a symbol of resilience, celebration, and progress. With stunning beaches and a growing queer scene, it’s one of Africa’s most welcoming destinations for LGBT travellers.

Pride here comes with a mountain view and meaningful impact.

Where to stay :  The Glen Boutique Hotel & Spa  is openly gay-owned and provides exceptional service with a relaxed atmosphere.
Ask us for seasonal rates or package deals.

Canada celebrates  Pride Month in June , but Toronto’s queer energy is present year-round. From the Church-Wellesley Village to inclusive cafes, theatres, and events, the city is a beacon of progress.

Toronto combines culture, comfort, and celebration.

Where to stay :  The Drake Hotel  is artsy, inclusive, and located close to the action.
Ask us about promotions and inclusive packages.

Sydney’s  Mardi Gras Festival , held in late February, is a world-famous mix of politics, art, and pure fun. The city is open-minded and lively, with beaches, nightlife, and culture rolled into one.

The energy is electric — and inclusive.

Where to stay :  QT Sydney  offers flair, style, and central access to all events.
We can advise on Mardi Gras packages for your travel dates.

Berlin is a city with deep LGBT roots and a non-stop calendar of queer events. Pride (CSD) takes place in  late July , but the city is alive with drag shows, art exhibitions, and community gatherings throughout the year.

Berlin is loud, proud, and deeply aware.

Where to stay :  Hotel Berlin, Berlin  balances style and substance.
Ask Wide Awake Holidays about our special rates and events calendar.

Lisbon hosts its main Pride parade in  June , but the city offers year-round charm and warmth to LGBT travellers. The Bairro Alto and Príncipe Real districts are lively, walkable, and filled with LGBT-owned venues.

Lisbon is laid-back, inclusive, and filled with heart.

Where to stay :  Memmo Príncipe Real  is a boutique gem with incredible views.
Ask us about available upgrades and inclusive travel extras.

We know what it feels like to search for a trip that reflects you — and to feel disappointed when the promise of “gay-friendly” falls flat.

At Wide Awake Holidays, we offer more than a rainbow sticker in a window. We design real, thoughtful, and safe LGBT travel experiences.

Wherever you want to celebrate Pride, we’ll make sure you feel welcome, informed, and looked after.

If you’ve never been on a “gay holiday,” you might wonder if it’s for you. You don’t need to attend Pride events or go clubbing to enjoy the benefits of LGBT-focused travel.

Think about this:

If so, you’re ready.

Whether you’re going solo, travelling as a couple, or taking a trip with friends, we’ll guide you to the right destination at the right time — no judgement, no pressure.

You don’t need to wait for February or June. You don’t need to fit a stereotype. You just need a passport and a desire to see the world as your full self.

Let us help you choose the perfect city, hotel, and timing to celebrate Pride abroad — in a way that’s comfortable, meaningful, and entirely yours.

Your next holiday doesn’t have to be ordinary. Let’s make it personal. Let’s make it proud.

The post How to Celebrate LGBT+ History Month Beyond February: Celebrate Pride Abroad All Year first appeared on Wide Awake Holidays.