Gran Canaria offers more than just stunning beaches, volcanic landscapes and perfect weather. It’s a welcoming place where diversity, freedom and the authenticity of every individual are celebrated. Which is what makes this tourist destination a vibrant and welcoming hot spot for the LGBTQ+ community.

Gran Canaria has always been a pioneer in the expression of diversity. In 1986, the Maspalomas International Carnival took a bold step towards inclusion, introducing the Miss Traveskarnatival Gala. This innovative gala was a trailblazer in celebrating the diversity of gender identities and artistic expression, giving a platform to those challenging traditional norms.

The Miss Traveskarnatival Gala was not merely a beauty pageant; it was a revolutionary event that helped open the doors to acceptance and understanding of the transgender community on the island… and beyond.

And now, with diverse events from Maspalomas Gay Pride to Maspalomas Bear Week, the island has cemented its status as a place of acceptance and celebration.

You can see the island’s commitment to LGBTQ+ friendly spaces all around. Venues include Kiosco 7, a gay-friendly beach bar and Yumbo Shopping Centre the epicentre of LGBTQ+ celebrations, all of which contribute to the island’s reputation as a gay-friendly destination.

The local people’s open-minded, tolerant mindset has also helped create this fabulously welcoming atmosphere.

Yumbo Shopping Centre: the epicentre of LGBTQ+ celebrations in Maspalomas

When it comes to LGBTQ+ celebrations in Maspalomas, the Yumbo Shopping Centre is the epicentre of fun and free expression. Located in Playa del Inglés, the shopping centre has been a prominent meeting place for the LGBTQ+ community for decades. During Maspalomas Gay Pride and Maspalomas Winter Pride, Yumbo springs into life with events, parties and activities embracing diversity.

The bars, clubs and shops at Yumbo get into the party spirit, creating a welcoming space, perfect for socialising and celebrating authenticity.

Gay beach bar in Maspalomas: An oasis of diversity and meetups

Gay beach bar Kiosco 7 has become an iconic meeting point on the vibrant Maspalomas scene. Nestled close to the Maspalomas lighthouse, this beachfront establishment goes beyond offering panoramic sea views and delightful cocktails. It’s a space where diversity is celebrated, serving up an inclusive, friendly ambience for the LGBTQ+ community.

Key dates for 2024: Experience it for yourself

Here are the key dates you need if you want to fully immerse yourself in the vibrant LGBTQ+ scene in Maspalomas:

• 2-12 May 2024: Maspalomas Gay Pride
• 16 March 2024: Drag Queen Gala at Maspalomas International Carnival
• 9-17 March 2024 – Maspalomas Bear Week
• 4-10 November 2024 – Maspalomas Winter Pride

Maspalomas Gay Pride: A boundary-breaking celebration

The roots of Maspalomas Gay Pride date back to the 1990s. Back then, a group of local activists and visionary entrepreneurs joined forces to kickstart an event that not only celebrates diversity, but also promotes inclusion in the LGBTQ+ community. What began as a modest celebration has flourished over time, and it’s now one of the world’s top Pride festivals.

Held this year, 2024, from 2 to 12 May, the annual event transforms the streets of Maspalomas into an explosion of colour, music and authentic expression. From parades bursting with energy to open-air concerts and cultural events, Maspalomas Gay Pride is the perfect reflection of Gran Canaria’s vibrant, welcoming spirit.

The unique, utterly hilarious High Heels Race is one of the most popular events. The highlight of the festival takes place on the second Saturday of May – the Carnival Float Parade. This is the most significant moment of the festivities, bringing together more than 200,000 people on the streets of Maspalomas. It’s the peak of acceptance of diversity and freedom. This year, 2024, the big event will happen on 11 May.

Head to the official website to see the programme in full: www.maspalomaspridebyfreedom.com

Drag Queen Gala: A dazzling spectacle at Maspalomas Carnival

The Maspalomas International Carnival is one of the island’s biggest festivals, and the Drag Queen Gala contest, held on 16 March, is a definite high point. A show of standout extravagance and creativity, participants from the world over compete in an impressive drag contest. The dazzling costumes and energetic performances elevate this contest to a focal point of the carnival, showcasing the ultimate in diversity and artistic expression.

Maspalomas Bear Week: Celebrating the bear community with pride

Maspalomas Bear Week is a must for anyone who identifies with the bear community. Held this year from 9 to 17 March 2024, the event brings together gay men from all over the world in a week full of socials, parties and sports events. Tolerance and acceptance are the order of the day, welcoming all and celebrating diversity in all its forms.

Maspalomas Winter Pride: Glowing up the winter season

If you were thinking the fun only happens in summer, think again! Maspalomas Winter Pride brings the party spirit to the island in the cooler months. Held this year from 4 to 10 November, the event offers visitors a unique experience boasting live performances, themed parties and cultural events. The perfect reason to escape the northern chill and dive into the warmth and joy only Gran Canaria can provide.

Ready to immerse yourself in Gran Canaria’s vibrant LGBTQ+ scene? Prepare yourself for a unique experience loaded with colour, joy and acceptance!

Categories: Canaries, Gran Canaria