There’s never been a better time to celebrate pride on a holiday abroad. Across the globe, LGBTQ+ festivals are lighting up the summer calendar with parades, performances, and parties that blend activism with pure joy.
Whether you’ve danced in a sea of rainbow flags before or are thinking about joining your first parade, Pride offers something deeply personal. It’s a chance to feel seen, heard, and celebrated—not just at home, but around the world.
At Wide Awake Holidays, we believe the best way to mark Pride season is to experience it somewhere extraordinary. Let’s take you on a journey through the top destinations where you can celebrate pride on a holiday abroad this summer.
1. Madrid Pride – Spain’s Biggest LGBTQ+ Celebration
Madrid transforms into a living rainbow during Pride. Chueca, the city’s LGBT+ district, becomes the beating heart of the celebration with live music, themed parties, and cultural events.
The main parade draws over a million people and winds through central Madrid. It’s one of the largest Pride events in Europe—and also one of the most joyful.
You’ll find open-air stages, rooftop parties, and a mix of traditional Spanish flair and contemporary queer culture.
Ask us about boutique hotel stays in Chueca and Pride-viewing balcony access.
How Gay Friendly is Spain?
- Legal since: 1979
- Marriage equality: Legal since 2005
- Discrimination protections: Yes, nationwide
- Employment protections: Comprehensive
- Equal age of consent: Yes
- Public opinion: Very supportive
2. Amsterdam Pride – Canal Parade Magic
Few cities do Pride quite like Amsterdam. Every August, its world-famous canals fill with decorated boats for the iconic Canal Parade.
The atmosphere is festive but laid-back. Pride in Amsterdam includes film screenings, drag shows, and street parties—all wrapped in Dutch efficiency and charm.
Because the city centre is compact and walkable, everything feels connected. That makes it perfect for a weekend trip.
Let us plan your city break with centrally located accommodation during Pride.
How Gay Friendly is the Netherlands?
- Legal since: 1811
- Marriage equality: Legal since 2001
- Discrimination protections: Strong nationwide laws
- Employment protections: Fully inclusive
- Equal age of consent: Yes
- Public opinion: Extremely positive
3. New York City Pride – A Legacy of Resistance
Pride in New York isn’t just a party—it’s a pilgrimage. It marks the birthplace of the modern LGBTQ+ rights movement, with the first Pride event happening one year after the Stonewall Riots.
The city now hosts a massive parade, rallies, and Pride Island—a ticketed music event featuring big-name performers.
There are also smaller gatherings throughout each borough, from Brooklyn drag brunches to Harlem poetry nights.
We can arrange city passes, hotel deals, and tickets to Pride-exclusive events.
How Gay Friendly is the USA?
- Legal since: Nationwide since 2003
- Marriage equality: Legal since 2015
- Discrimination protections: Varies by state
- Employment protections: Federal protections apply
- Equal age of consent: Yes, varies slightly by state
- Public opinion: Strong support in major cities
4. Berlin CSD – Pride with Purpose
Christopher Street Day (CSD) in Berlin is both a celebration and a political statement. The city’s LGBTQ+ community is known for its strength, diversity, and artistic flair.
Berlin CSD features a massive parade, techno street parties, and cultural exhibitions. You’ll find speeches, signs, and calls to action—alongside drag queens and DJs.
Berlin offers a unique mix of history, hedonism, and hope. That makes it ideal if you want meaning with your celebration.
Ask us about pairing Berlin Pride with a cultural trip through Germany.
How Gay Friendly is Germany?
- Legal since: 1969
- Marriage equality: Legal since 2017
- Discrimination protections: Yes, federally enforced
- Employment protections: Yes
- Equal age of consent: Yes
- Public opinion: Very supportive in urban areas
5. Toronto Pride – Canada’s Inclusive Showcase
Toronto Pride is one of North America’s most diverse celebrations. It includes a Trans March, Dyke March, and the main Pride Parade, each with its own energy and purpose.
The Church-Wellesley Village becomes a Pride hub, filled with outdoor markets, dance tents, and queer art exhibits.
Canada’s welcoming attitude and multicultural vibe make it a great choice for first-time travellers.
Let us help you build a longer trip across Canada with Pride at its heart.
How Gay Friendly is Canada?
- Legal since: 1969
- Marriage equality: Legal since 2005
- Discrimination protections: Nationwide
- Employment protections: Strong and consistent
- Equal age of consent: Yes
- Public opinion: Extremely positive
6. Bangkok Pride – Southeast Asia’s Rising Star
Bangkok is now reclaiming its place as a top Pride destination. After years of unofficial events, the Thai capital’s Pride celebration is officially recognised and growing fast.
Expect colourful processions, drag pageants, and a nightlife scene that truly doesn’t sleep. Pride here is proud, powerful, and uniquely Thai.
If you want to celebrate pride on a holiday abroad in Southeast Asia, Bangkok is the gateway.
We offer packages that combine city stays with island retreats in Thailand.
How Gay Friendly is Thailand?
- Legal since: 1956 (decriminalised)
- Marriage equality: Under review; civil union bill pending
- Discrimination protections: Partial
- Employment protections: Some progress, not consistent
- Equal age of consent: Yes
- Public opinion: Open-minded in cities
