What are the best LGBTQ+ pride holidays this winter?

The top winter pride events include Winter Pride Maspalomas (Spain), European Snow Pride (France), Sydney Mardi Gras (Australia), Whistler Pride (Canada), and Pride in the Snow (Austria). Each offers unique celebrations ranging from beach festivals to mountain parties — all welcoming and inclusive.

When is Winter Pride Maspalomas 2025?

The event runs from 10–16 November 2025 in Gran Canaria. It’s one of the most popular pride holidays for travellers from across Europe seeking sunshine and community during the colder months.

Are winter pride holidays suitable for solo travellers?

Absolutely. Most winter pride events are designed with inclusivity at their core. They feature group activities, meet-ups, and guided tours — making it easy for solo travellers to connect with others and feel at home.

Which winter destinations are the most gay-friendly?

Gran Canaria, Tignes, Sydney, Whistler, and Sölden all rank highly for LGBT+ friendliness. They have visible queer communities, inclusive businesses, and a long history of hosting pride events.

How can I make sure my pride holiday booking is protected?

Always book through an ABTA and ATOL-protected travel agency like Wide Awake Holidays. This guarantees financial protection and gives you access to 24-hour support and flexible booking options.

Can I book pride holidays that combine events and relaxation?

Yes — many travellers like to pair an event such as Winter Pride with a few days of relaxation nearby. We can build bespoke packages that include both, giving you time to celebrate and unwind.

Are pride holidays family-friendly?

Some are. Destinations such as Sydney and Gran Canaria often include family-friendly activities alongside nightlife events. We can advise which options best suit your group’s preferences.

How far in advance should I book?

For major winter pride events, it’s best to book six to nine months ahead. Flights and hotels fill up quickly, particularly in resort towns.

Do I need to bring pride-specific clothing or accessories?

Not necessarily — comfort is key. But if you enjoy dressing up for parades or themed nights, pack something colourful! Pride holidays are about self-expression, so wear what makes you feel good.

How do I start planning my pride holiday?

Simply contact the team at Wide Awake Holidays. Share where and when you’d like to travel, and we’ll create a tailored itinerary — complete with protected bookings, local guidance, and insider event access.

Pride Holidays: Must-See LGBTQ+ Events This Winter

The Coolest Pride Holidays to Brighten Your Winter

Winter doesn’t have to mean hiding indoors. Across the world, dazzling pride holidays bring warmth, music, and togetherness to the coldest months. From sunny beaches to snowy mountains, LGBTQ+ travellers are proving that the party — and the pride — never stop. Whether you’re craving a festive parade under the stars or a ski-side celebration with friends, these winter events are the perfect chance to celebrate who you are and where you belong.

With Wide Awake Holidays, you can plan your winter escape knowing your trip is protected, inclusive, and designed with care. Ready to explore the best pride holidays this season? Let’s dive in. For more travel inspiration, take a look at our LGBT+ travel inspiration guides, designed to help you plan the perfect inclusive getaway.

Destination 1: Winter Pride Maspalomas – Gran Canaria, Spain

When it comes to winter pride holidays, few destinations capture the spirit of celebration quite like Winter Pride Maspalomas. Held each November on Gran Canaria’s southern coast, this sun-soaked festival blends beachside relaxation with pure party energy. The 2025 edition (10–16 November) promises a week of open-air concerts, pool parties, and the iconic Pride Walk through Yumbo Centre — all set against 25-degree sunshine.

For LGBT+ travellers, Maspalomas is more than a destination; it’s a community. The island has long welcomed queer visitors with open arms, offering everything from rainbow-flag cafés to all-inclusive hotels. Locals embrace the festival spirit, and even in quieter corners, you’ll find that easy Spanish warmth that makes it feel like home. If Gran Canaria has caught your eye, explore our tailored Gran Canaria travel packages for the latest event dates and hotel options.

What makes Winter Pride special?

Day-to-night events ranging from drag shows to sunset boat parties.
A relaxed, international crowd that mixes locals with visitors from across Europe.
A tropical climate that lets you trade coats for swimwear in November.

How Gay Friendly is Maspalomas?

Extremely. The resort town has a strong LGBT+ infrastructure, with bars, clubs and beach spots that welcome everyone. Pride Week here isn’t a one-off; it’s part of a broader culture of inclusion that lasts all year.

Travel Tip:

Book early. Winter Pride draws thousands each year, and the best centrally located hotels fill up fast. Wide Awake Holidays can tailor your stay with secure accommodation, event passes, and protected bookings — so you can simply turn up and enjoy.

Destination 2: European Snow Pride – Tignes, France

If your idea of pride holidays involves snow-covered peaks and après-ski parties, European Snow Pride in Tignes is your ultimate winter fix. Running each March in the French Alps, this event transforms one of Europe’s top ski resorts into a buzzing, inclusive playground for LGBT+ travellers.

It’s not just about skiing. Yes, the slopes are world-class, but it’s the sense of community that truly shines. Every year, guests from around the globe come together for a week of snow sports, wellness sessions, live DJs, and themed parties that spill across the mountainside. Whether you’re mastering your first blue run or just want to sip hot chocolate in good company, there’s something here for every pace. We’ve even curated dedicated ski holidays for same-sex couples — ideal if you’d like to combine the slopes with Pride celebrations.

Why it stands out:

Combines world-class skiing with an inclusive, festival-like atmosphere.
Full event programme featuring drag brunches, mountain barbecues, and spa sessions.
Dedicated host hotels that welcome LGBT+ guests with open arms.

How Gay Friendly is Tignes?

Highly. The town actively supports European Snow Pride and has built a strong reputation for openness and safety. Staff, ski instructors, and local businesses proudly participate in the celebration — creating a visible culture of inclusion that lasts all season.

Travel Tip:

Tignes sits at 2,100 metres, meaning reliable snow well into late March. Even non-skiers will love the alpine scenery and relaxed cafés. Wide Awake Holidays can arrange lift passes, transfers, and accommodation — plus ensure your booking is protected under our LGBT+-friendly travel guarantee.

Destination 3: Sydney Gay and Lesbian Mardi Gras – Australia

When the northern hemisphere is wrapped in scarves, Sydney is glowing in summer sunshine. The city’s legendary Gay and Lesbian Mardi Gras (21 February – 9 March 2026) remains one of the most famous pride holidays on Earth — a spectacular mix of parades, art, dance and community.

The highlight is the Oxford Street Parade, where thousands of marchers, floats and performers light up the night. Yet Mardi Gras is far more than one evening of glitter — it’s a three-week celebration of identity and progress, filled with beach parties, film screenings, talks and exhibitions. Sydney embraces its role as a global queer capital, and every visitor is made to feel part of something powerful.

Why it stands out:

The world’s largest LGBTQ+ parade set against Sydney’s iconic skyline.
Diverse events celebrating queer culture beyond nightlife — from art to activism.
Perfect summer weather for outdoor parties, coastal walks and rooftop gatherings.

How Gay Friendly is Sydney?

Extremely. With an established queer district in Darlinghurst and countless inclusive venues city-wide, Sydney has long been a safe and joyful space for LGBT+ travellers. The Mardi Gras season amplifies that warmth — a time when acceptance takes centre stage and the entire city joins in. Planning to join Sydney’s festivities? Discover our Sydney Mardi Gras packages to make the most of your time Down Under.

Travel Tip:

Plan well ahead; flights and hotels book out months in advance. We can coordinate flexible, protected itineraries that pair the parade experience with coastal escapes to Bondi or the Blue Mountains.

Destination 4: Whistler Pride and Ski Festival – British Columbia, Canada

Few winter celebrations match the high-energy charm of Whistler Pride and Ski Festival. Set in Canada’s most famous alpine resort, this week-long event (January 26 – February 2, 2026) blends world-class skiing with an inclusive, welcoming atmosphere that feels both adventurous and heartfelt. For LGBT+ travellers seeking active pride holidays, it’s one of the most exhilarating.

Whistler Pride isn’t just another ski week; it’s an experience shaped by creativity, connection, and diversity. The festival includes guided mountain tours, après-ski parties, comedy nights, and live performances from international DJs. The highlight is the Pride Parade on the Slopes, where hundreds of skiers glide down in rainbow gear — a dazzling sight against snow-covered peaks.

Why it stands out:

One of the longest-running LGBTQ+ ski festivals in North America.
Perfect balance of outdoor adventure and inclusive social events.
A strong sense of safety and visibility for queer travellers.

How Gay Friendly is Whistler?

Whistler is renowned for being progressive, friendly, and inclusive. The local tourism board and resort staff actively support Pride Week, ensuring everyone feels welcome. Even beyond festival week, the village atmosphere is open, diverse, and community-minded.

Travel Tip:

Canada’s winter can be chilly, so pack layers — but don’t worry, the party scene is hot. Wide Awake Holidays can organise flights, transfers, lift passes, and accommodation under full ABTA and ATOL protection, ensuring your booking is safe and flexible.

Destination 5: Pride in the Snow – Sölden, Austria

If you prefer your pride holidays with a European twist, Pride in the Snow in Sölden offers the ideal alpine escape. Each March, this charming Austrian resort turns into a rainbow-coloured winter wonderland. The festival blends Austrian hospitality with international flair, hosting drag shows, slope parades, and après-ski events that sparkle late into the night.

Sölden’s slopes are as famous as its nightlife. Pride in the Snow brings together skiers, snowboarders, and party lovers who share a love of both mountains and music. Between runs, visitors gather in cosy chalets, dance under disco lights, and toast with mulled wine — proving winter can be one of the most joyful times to travel.

Why it stands out:

Authentic alpine setting with a warm, welcoming crowd.
Mixture of sports, music, and culture — perfect for all comfort levels.
Intimate festival vibe that feels more personal than larger events.

How Gay Friendly is Sölden?

Austria has made great strides in LGBT+ inclusivity, and Sölden’s hospitality sector has fully embraced Pride in the Snow. The town proudly supports the event, and the open-hearted local businesses make visitors feel instantly comfortable.

Travel Tip:

Sölden is accessible from Innsbruck Airport and offers excellent local transport. Wide Awake Holidays can arrange a custom package including accommodation, transfers, and passes — all backed by our LGBT+ travel protections for total peace of mind.

Booking Protections & LGBT+ Traveller Safety

Choosing the right pride holidays is about more than finding a great destination — it’s about travelling with confidence. When you book with Wide Awake Holidays, your trip is not only planned with care but also fully protected. Every booking is covered by ABTA and ATOL protection, ensuring that your money, flights, and accommodation are secure from the moment you confirm until you return home.

Travel has always been about freedom, but for LGBT+ travellers, that freedom means feeling safe, respected, and understood. Too often, holiday planning involves second-guessing whether a destination or hotel will be inclusive. That’s where we step in. Our pride holiday packages are built from the ground up with visibility and safety in mind — we vet every property, partner, and tour operator to make sure they share our values of equality and inclusion.

From check-in to check-out, you’ll feel supported. Our curated collection of hotels and resorts is chosen not only for style and comfort but for their proven record of welcoming LGBT+ guests. We work closely with local hosts, event organisers, and tourism boards to ensure that you’ll always be in environments where acceptance is the norm, not the exception.

We also provide 24-hour support throughout your trip. Whether you’re navigating airport transfers or seeking local recommendations, our dedicated team is just a message away. This means that your pride holidays remain stress-free and fully backed by people who understand your journey — literally and figuratively.

Another key protection is flexibility. In today’s travel landscape, plans can change quickly. That’s why every Wide Awake Holidays booking includes flexible amendment options, clear cancellation terms, and full transparency on travel insurance. We believe that your peace of mind should be as strong as your sense of adventure.

Our travellers often tell us that the reassurance of booking through a trusted LGBT-owned agency changes everything. It’s not just about security; it’s about being seen and valued. You know that your questions won’t be met with assumptions, that your couple’s booking will be respected, and that your celebration will be handled with genuine care.

We’re proud to champion destinations and partners who support equality year-round — not just during Pride season. When you travel with us, your booking contributes to businesses that actively promote inclusion. Together, we help build a more open and welcoming world, one trip at a time.

Travel Tip:

Before booking, always check local LGBTQ+ rights and customs in your destination country. Our advisors can provide up-to-date guidance, ensuring you feel comfortable wherever you travel. From visa requirements to cultural insights, we cover the details so you can focus on the experience itself.

Ready to Plan Your Winter Pride Escape?

Winter doesn’t have to be quiet. Around the world, celebrations continue long after summer fades — from Gran Canaria’s golden beaches to the snowy peaks of Whistler and Tignes. These pride holidays remind us that community isn’t seasonal; it thrives wherever people gather to celebrate who they are.

When you travel with Wide Awake Holidays, you’re not just booking a trip — you’re joining a movement that celebrates connection, equality, and adventure. Whether you want to dance beneath alpine stars, join a parade under fireworks, or simply unwind somewhere you’re completely accepted, we’ll make it happen.

Our team understands the details that matter: matching the right destination to your travel style, coordinating protected bookings, and offering insight that only dedicated LGBT+ specialists can provide. From your first email to your return flight, you’ll have a partner who genuinely gets it.

So, where will your winter pride journey take you?

Reach out today, share your dream destination, and let’s start building the perfect celebration together. When you’re ready to plan, simply contact the team — we’ll help you design your ideal winter Pride escape.

You bring the pride — we’ll bring the planning.

What are the best LGBTQ+ pride holidays this winter?
The top winter pride events include Winter Pride Maspalomas (Spain), European Snow Pride (France), Sydney Mardi Gras (Australia), Whistler Pride (Canada), and Pride in the Snow (Austria). Each offers unique celebrations ranging from beach festivals to mountain parties — all welcoming and inclusive.
When is Winter Pride Maspalomas 2025?
The event runs from 10–16 November 2025 in Gran Canaria. It’s one of the most popular pride holidays for travellers from across Europe seeking sunshine and community during the colder months.
Are winter pride holidays suitable for solo travellers?
Absolutely. Most winter pride events are designed with inclusivity at their core. They feature group activities, meet-ups, and guided tours — making it easy for solo travellers to connect with others and feel at home.
Which winter destinations are the most gay-friendly?
Gran Canaria, Tignes, Sydney, Whistler, and Sölden all rank highly for LGBT+ friendliness. They have visible queer communities, inclusive businesses, and a long history of hosting pride events.
How can I make sure my pride holiday booking is protected?
Always book through an ABTA and ATOL-protected travel agency like Wide Awake Holidays. This guarantees financial protection and gives you access to 24-hour support and flexible booking options.
Can I book pride holidays that combine events and relaxation?
Yes — many travellers like to pair an event such as Winter Pride with a few days of relaxation nearby. We can build bespoke packages that include both, giving you time to celebrate and unwind.
Are pride holidays family-friendly?
Some are. Destinations such as Sydney and Gran Canaria often include family-friendly activities alongside nightlife events. We can advise which options best suit your group’s preferences.
How far in advance should I book?
For major winter pride events, it’s best to book six to nine months ahead. Flights and hotels fill up quickly, particularly in resort towns.
Do I need to bring pride-specific clothing or accessories?
Not necessarily — comfort is key. But if you enjoy dressing up for parades or themed nights, pack something colourful! Pride holidays are about self-expression, so wear what makes you feel good.
How do I start planning my pride holiday?
Simply contact the team at Wide Awake Holidays. Share where and when you’d like to travel, and we’ll create a tailored itinerary — complete with protected bookings, local guidance, and insider event access.