LGBT festival holidays are more than just parties. They’re powerful celebrations of identity, resilience, and global community. Whether you travel often for Pride or have never booked a gay holiday before, there’s never been a better time to discover the world through its most vibrant LGBT+ events.
From colourful parades in Europe to cultural celebrations in South America, these festivals bring together people from every background in unforgettable locations. So, where should you go next?
Let’s explore the best LGBT festival holidays across the globe—and how you can turn them into a holiday worth remembering.
Madrid Pride (Orgullo) – Spain
Madrid’s annual Orgullo is one of the biggest Pride festivals in Europe. Held in late June or early July, it turns the entire city into a non-stop street party. Think live music, drag shows, and rainbow flags as far as the eye can see.
You’ll find events in Chueca, the city’s gay district, as well as major performances in Plaza de España. Families, couples, and solo travellers all feel welcome here.
Want to stay close to the action? We can recommend centrally located LGBT-friendly hotels with rooftop pools and inclusive atmospheres.
How Gay Friendly is Spain?
- Homosexuality has been legal since 1979.
- Same-sex marriage has been legal since 2005.
- Anti-discrimination laws protect sexual orientation and gender identity.
- Employment protections apply nationally.
- The age of consent is equal.
- Public opinion is overwhelmingly positive, especially in cities like Madrid and Barcelona.
São Paulo Pride – Brazil
São Paulo hosts the world’s largest Pride parade. It takes place each June and draws millions. Picture colourful floats, samba beats, and drag queens dancing down Avenida Paulista.
There’s more than just the parade. The city holds cultural debates, film screenings, and LGBT+ art exhibitions. It’s both festive and thought-provoking.
If you’ve never been to Brazil, this is a bold and exciting first step.
How Gay Friendly is Brazil?
- Homosexuality has been legal since 1830.
- Same-sex marriage was legalised in 2013.
- There are anti-discrimination laws, though enforcement varies.
- Employment protections exist at the federal level.
- Equal age of consent applies.
- While major cities are accepting, there are regional differences in attitudes.
Sydney WorldPride – Australia
Sydney hosted WorldPride in 2023, but its annual Mardi Gras remains a must-see. Held in late February or early March, it combines a dazzling parade with community events and beach parties.
Oxford Street becomes the heartbeat of celebration. Expect inclusive events across art, sports, and music. There’s even a fair day where families picnic beside drag performers.
How Gay Friendly is Australia?
- Homosexuality was decriminalised in all states by 1997.
- Same-sex marriage became legal in 2017.
- Anti-discrimination laws exist at national and state levels.
- Full employment protections are in place.
- Equal age of consent applies in most states.
- Public opinion is highly supportive, especially in urban areas.
Amsterdam Pride – Netherlands
Canal Parade is Amsterdam’s iconic Pride highlight. Floats glide through the city’s waterways while crowds line the bridges. It’s a unique celebration, blending the city’s progressive values with party spirit.
The festival spans a full week, including street parties, theatre, and talks about LGBT+ rights. It’s ideal for couples or solo travellers looking to mix culture and celebration.
How Gay Friendly is the Netherlands?
- Homosexuality has been legal since 1811.
- It was the first country to legalise same-sex marriage in 2001.
- Strong anti-discrimination and employment protections exist.
- Equal age of consent has long been established.
- Public opinion is among the most accepting in the world.
New York City Pride – USA
Held in June, NYC Pride is a mix of protest, party, and remembrance. The city honours the Stonewall Uprising while also throwing one of the world’s most dynamic celebrations.
There’s a rally, human rights conference, youth events, and a huge march through Manhattan. You’ll feel the energy of history and hope in equal measure.
How Gay Friendly is the United States?
- Homosexuality was legalised nationwide in 2003.
- Same-sex marriage has been legal nationwide since 2015.
- Anti-discrimination protections vary by state.
- Employment protections exist, but enforcement varies.
- Equal age of consent laws vary between states.
- Public opinion is broadly supportive in coastal and urban areas.
Berlin Pride (Christopher Street Day) – Germany
Berlin Pride, or Christopher Street Day (CSD), is one of Europe’s loudest and proudest events. With over a million participants, it’s political and joyful all at once.
The parade winds through the city with speeches, music, and rainbow confetti. Expect themed parties and cultural events that highlight Germany’s progressive stance on LGBT+ rights.
How Gay Friendly is Germany?
- Homosexuality was decriminalised in 1969.
- Same-sex marriage became legal in 2017.
- Discrimination based on sexuality is illegal.
- Employment protections are enshrined in law.
- Equal age of consent applies.
- Public opinion is strongly in favour of LGBT+ rights.
Cape Town Pride – South Africa
Cape Town hosts the biggest Pride celebration on the African continent. It takes place in February and mixes activism with beachside fun.
The event includes film festivals, workshops, and a vibrant parade. It’s ideal for travellers who want both cultural insight and natural beauty.
How Gay Friendly is South Africa?
- Homosexuality has been legal since 1998.
- Same-sex marriage was legalised in 2006.
- Discrimination based on sexuality is constitutionally banned.
- Strong employment protections are in place.
- Equal age of consent applies.
- Urban areas are welcoming, though rural areas can be less accepting.
Bangkok Pride – Thailand
Thailand’s Pride celebrations have grown rapidly in recent years. Bangkok’s parade in June is colourful, stylish, and proudly local.
Nightlife, cultural shows, and drag performances bring energy to the city. You’ll find a mix of international travellers and local communities celebrating side by side.
How Gay Friendly is Thailand?
- Homosexuality was decriminalised in 1956.
- Same-sex marriage is not yet legal, but laws are progressing.
- Discrimination laws are limited, but social tolerance is high.
- No formal employment protections exist nationwide.
- Age of consent is equal.
- Public opinion is generally open, especially in cities.
Montreal Pride – Canada
Held in August, Montreal Pride mixes French-Canadian culture with inclusive celebration. Expect drag brunches, human rights panels, and a huge Pride march.
It’s smaller than Toronto’s but just as welcoming. The festival embraces intersectionality, with programming for people of colour, trans individuals, and families.
How Gay Friendly is Canada?
- Homosexuality was decriminalised in 1969.
- Same-sex marriage was legalised in 2005.
- Comprehensive anti-discrimination laws protect all LGBT+ people.
- Strong national employment protections are in place.
- Equal age of consent.
- Canada is widely seen as one of the most welcoming countries.
Reykjavik Pride – Iceland
This charming capital hosts one of the most heartfelt Pride events each August. Reykjavik Pride includes poetry readings, children’s events, and political debates.
The city is small but vibrant, with locals showing strong support. It’s a great choice if you want to avoid huge crowds but still feel connected.
How Gay Friendly is Iceland?
- Homosexuality has been legal since 1940.
- Same-sex marriage was legalised in 2010.
- Full anti-discrimination protections exist.
- Strong employment rights for LGBT+ staff.
- Equal age of consent.
- Iceland consistently ranks as one of the best places for LGBT+ rights.
Jamie Says: “Festival holidays let you celebrate who you are while discovering the world. There’s nothing quite like watching a Pride parade in a new city—surrounded by love, colour, and community. Whether you’re going solo or with friends, we’ll help you make it unforgettable.” Jamie, Founder of Wide Awake Holidays
Why Book With Us?
When you book your lgbt festival holidays with Wide Awake Holidays, you get more than just a trip. You get peace of mind.
All tailor-made bookings include:
- Supplier Failure Insurance
- Scheduled Airline Failure Insurance
As a member of Protected Trust Services and holding an ATOL license, your money is protected every step of the way. We work with trusted partners who understand the needs of LGBT+ travellers. And because we’re a gay-owned company, we know that sometimes gay-friendly is just not friendly enough.
Our personal travel service means you can relax knowing that every detail is looked after. From handpicked hotels to event access and flights, we’ve got it covered.
Ready to Plan Your Own LGBT Festival Holiday?
Now’s the time to turn celebration into travel. Whether you want to dance on the canals of Amsterdam or take in the views of Cape Town, we’ll help you get there.
At Wide Awake Holidays, we believe your holiday should feel like it fits. Your style. Your pace. Your community.
Call us on 01495 400947 to talk about your next adventure—or use our holiday enquiry form to get started today.
Let’s create something unforgettable together.
