Celebrating Pride All Year Round

Pride Month is a vibrant celebration of the LGBTQ+ community's resilience, diversity, and progress. However, Pride isn't confined to just one month. Around the globe, various cities host Pride events throughout the year, each offering unique cultural experiences and commemorations. In celebration, we’ve curated a list of some of our favorite destinations, Pride events, and experiences that extend into June and beyond. 

1. Sydney, Australia - Sydney Gay and Lesbian Mardi Gras (February - March)

In Sydney, Mardi Gras has a completely different meaning from the rest of the world. While Mardi Gras and Carnival festivities in the rest of the world mark the beginning of Lent, in Sydney they are synonymous with LGBTQ+ Pride.Held annually from late February to early March, this festival features a dazzling parade, dance parties, and a range of cultural events. Explore the history of LGBTQ+ activism in Australia by visiting the 78ers Memorial Park, dedicated to the pioneers of the first Mardi Gras protest in 1978. Additionally, the Australian Museum offers exhibits on LGBTQ+ history and culture. See more of Sydney here.

2. Rio de Janeiro, Brazil - Orgulho Gay (November)

Orgulho Gay, or Gay Pride, is a vibrant event that takes over all of Rio de Janeiro. The main event, of course, is the parade, which marches by the city's best beaches. But there's usually a long program of events that lead up to it during the week featuring parades, music, and cultural events. Visit the Museum of Sexual Diversity and the surrounding LGBTQ+ friendly areas such as Ipanema and Copacabana, which offer vibrant nightlife, bars, and cultural experiences reflecting the diverse LGBTQ+ culture of Rio. See more of Rio here.

3. Amsterdam, Netherlands - Amsterdam Pride (August)

Amsterdam Pride is famed for its unique Canal Parade, held in early August. Floats traverse the city’s iconic canals, creating a festive and inclusive atmosphere. Visit the Homomonument, a memorial in the center of Amsterdam dedicated to persecuted LGBTQ+ individuals. The nearby Anne Frank House occasionally hosts special exhibits focusing on LGBTQ+ stories during the Holocaust.

4. Madrid, Spain - Madrid Orgullo (July)

Madrid’s Pride, known as Madrid Orgullo or MADO, occurs in early July and is one of Europe’s most significant LGBTQ+ events. The celebration spans over a week, culminating in the grand parade through the city’s center. Explore Chueca, Madrid's LGBTQ+ district, known for its vibrant nightlife, trendy cafes, and cultural landmarks. The Museo del Prado often features exhibits highlighting LGBTQ+ themes in art, offering a rich cultural experience. See more of Spain here.

5. Cape Town, South Africa - Cape Town Pride (February - March)

In one of the earliest countries to legalize same-sex marriage, Cape Town Pride reflects the city's diverse and multicultural identity. Cape Town is known for its vibrant LGBTQ+ scene, and the Pride event is an important part of the city's cultural calendar. The event includes a parade, street fair, and a series of parties and cultural activities. Explore the District Six Museum, which documents the history of this diverse area, including its LGBTQ+ community. The neighborhood of De Waterkant is known for its LGBTQ+ friendly cafes, shops, and nightlife. See more of South Africa here.