Imagine it: a kaleidoscope of flags flying, a sea of authenticity and inclusivity everywhere you look. Floats and parades aplenty, and LGBTQIA+ people (as well as allies) expressing themselves in all sorts of unique outfits and celebrating their authentic selves! While every country celebrates Pride in its own way and its own time, this is just a glimpse into the fabulosity you could experience at some of the top LGBTQIA+ pride events around the world.
However, the reason we celebrate Pride Month is not quite as fun and fabulous. In Lower Manhattan of New York City in 1969, a series of protests now commonly known as the Stonewall riots began the gay liberation movement that we now celebrate with exuberant and joyful displays of Pride. But back then, living life openly as an LGBTQIA+ person was neither easy nor safe.
That’s why, in honour of June being International Pride Month, Expat Explore has rounded up the best pride parades and LGBTQIA+ events worldwide. Pack your unique and expressive outfits, and meet us at these inclusive holiday destinations to spread some pride all around the world!
Here are the best pride parades around the world:
Go big in The Big Apple
Where: New York
When: June
The NYC Pride March has undeniable significance to the LGBTQIA+ community, not only in the USA but throughout the world. Since the Stonewall riots in 1969, where trans women and drag queens were the trailblazers of the gay liberation movement, New York has honoured the history and continued to celebrate the lives of LGBTQIA+ people with an annual pride festival that you simply can’t miss, whether you identify as part of the community or an ally.
This pride parade is something to experience! With thousands taking part in the march and millions observing from the sidewalks, it’s one of the world’s largest LGBTQIA+ events and the biggest pride parade in North America.
Related: Discover even more iconic events and festivals in America!
The Grey City goes colourful
Where: Berlin
When: July
Since Berlin (also called the Grey City) is already quite well-known for its unique and diverse club scene, it should come as no surprise that this iconic city in Germany is also home to some of the world’s top pride celebrations. Every year, Christopher Street Day is celebrated in commemoration of the street where the Stonewall riots of 1969 took place. The festival comprises a parade ending at the Brandenburg Gate as well as a rally with live music and topical speakers.
But apart from the annual CSD pride festival and the Lesbian & Gay City Festival the week before, Berlin is also an inclusive city year-round with a bustling LGBTQIA+ club scene where any sexuality and gender identity is welcome!
Related: Enjoy free time in Berlin on our Northern Explorer tour!
Queen City is a royal time
Where: Toronto
When: June
One cannot talk about Pride Month without tipping a Village People-inspired hat to Toronto, also affectionately known as Queen City. This nickname is never more appropriate than during June when Canada takes pride to the next level for a whole month of events and celebrations. In addition to the main Pride Parade, Pride Toronto also includes individual parades dedicated to lesbians and trans people respectively.
At the end of June, these events culminate in an epic celebration at the Pride Parade, including fabulous floats, entertainment aplenty and even an all-day Tree House Party featuring rave DJs and drag queens.
Related: Explore the natural and cultural wonders of Canada on an Eastern USA & Canada Escape!
Pro-LGBTQIA+ LDN
Where: London
When: July
Pride in London has undergone a big transformation in the last few decades, and rightfully so. Even after making headlines in recent years for a transphobic group making their way to the front of the parade holding discriminatory signs, England is still pro-LGBTQIA+ rights. Following the incident, the event organisers issued an apology and the London Trans+ Pride march was launched the very next year. Today, Pride in London is still going strong, with marches in Regent Street and Soho and even the Mayor of London attending and handing out high-fives!
Related: Explore the best of the United Kingdom on our top-rated Great Britain tour!
Experience real Madrid Pride
Where: Madrid
When: June-July
Spain might be famous for its food and football, but every year come June and July, the city of Madrid turns into a fabulous festival of pride! As Europe’s biggest pride festival, Madrid Pride is not to be missed. Featuring a huge parade, performances, talks, art exhibitions and film screenings, Madrid’s is a cultured celebration of the LGBTQIA+ community.
However, cultured doesn’t necessarily mean boring! Every year, those in attendance can look forward to the iconic high heels race as well as a host of unofficial soirees and shenanigans.
Related: Get a taste of Spanish life with the top tapas and restaurants in Spain!
Asian Pride has Tai-Won
Where: Taipei
When: October
After becoming the first country in Asia to legalise same-sex marriage in 2019, it should come as no surprise that Taiwan also hosts Asia’s largest pride festival. Every year since 2003, Taipei has turned into a mecca of LGBTQIA+ celebration. And with nearly 180,000 people having attended the 2023 event, you’re guaranteed that the spirit of pride will be palpable! Including rainbow bus tours, light displays, and, of course, an epic pride procession, Taiwan Pride is one you simply can’t miss!
The heart of Africa’s Pride
Where: Johannesburg
When: October
While LGBTQIA+ pride is still illegal in 34 of the 54 countries in Africa, and even punishable by death in some, Africa’s pride cannot be silenced. In fact, South Africa has gained recognition for its constitution that safeguards LGBTQIA+ individuals. Pride of Africa is a foundation dedicated to moving the needle of Africa’s tolerance and acceptance. Johannesburg Pride takes place in the heart of South Africa and is one of the tools to achieve this. Every year, a week-long event usually held in October celebrates the LGBTQIA+ community and promotes awareness of different sexual orientations and gender identities.
Related: Uncover even more interesting facts about South Africa!
There are many more global pride events and inclusive travel destinations to explore around the world! But if you’d like to visit any of the iconic LGBTQIA+-friendly countries on this list, Expat Explore has a range of guided group tours to the world’s must-see destinations.
Pick an LGBTQIA-friendly destination on your bucket list, book a tour, and get ready to experience the different expressions of sexuality, gender and LGBTQIA+ pride around the world!