Sexual and gender minorities, better known by the acronym LGBT, refer to lesbian, gay, bisexual, transgender, queer, intersex and asexual people… In other words, people who are not heterosexual, cisgender or dyadic. Around the world, this minority is sometimes misunderstood and feels threatened. There are around 15,000 transgender people in France, and every year, 65% of them are victims of discrimination. These circumstances make them feel insecure about attending events attended by the general public. To counter this, they organize LGBTQ+ events, where they come together to celebrate their community. If you’re part of that community, this article is for you. We’ll be revealing a few LGBTQ+ events you won’t want to miss.
10 LGBTQ+ events around the world
Discover below 10 LGBTQ+ events to attend around the world.
Mardi Gras: New Orleans
Celebrated 47 days before Easter, Shrove Tuesday is an event whose date changes every year. New Orleans’ LGBT+ community begins celebrating this event a few days before Shrove Tuesday, right up to the big day, with a multitude of parades, masked balls, club nights and more. Whatever the case, you’ll find plenty to keep you entertained!
Rio Carnival
Rio Carnival is an event that puts the spotlight on the LGBT+ community. One example is the gay ball, a popular party open to all, regardless of sexual orientation. It’s a major attraction, given that it takes place in the city center. Extravagant costumes are also presented at the event. In addition, there are other circuit parties such as the Barbies in Total Control Here Party (B.I.T.C.H) and the X-Demente Party, famous in the gay community for their electronic music and lively atmosphere. The carnival runs from February 28 to March 8.
Pride march
This event takes place in Paris and several other French cities every June. The aim of the Marche des Fiertés is to promote the rights of homosexuals and all those discriminated against because of their sexuality. The event used to be called Gay Pride, but since “gay” is a word for homosexual men, the name was changed to Marche des fiertés in 2002. The aim is to express the diversity of the participants.
Elevation Mammoth Gay Ski Week
Elevation Mammoth Week is launched towards the end of February. The event, which runs from March 12 to 16, includes an itinerary of skiing, après-ski, snowboarding, themed parties and even wine tasting. The Rainbow Run is one of the highlights of the event. As the name suggests, it’s a race that takes place on Mammoth Hill. Participants are encouraged to dress up in bright colors.
European Snow Pride
If you can’t make it to the U.S. in February, it’s no big deal. There’s a ski event in France: the European Snow Pride. It takes place in the French Alpine town of Tignes from March 15 to 22. 300 kilometers of interconnected slopes are available for you to enjoy. As well as skiing and snowboarding, European Snow Pride offers a wide range of off-piste entertainment, including raclette and fondue evenings, après-ski, themed evenings and the popular pool party. What sets European Snow Pride apart from other gay ski weeks is the Pride Parade on the slopes.
White Party
If you’re in the mood for a dance, check out the White Party. It’s an event organized by some of the world’s best DJs. You’ll enjoy a series of parties from the gay circuit over three days. It takes place at various venues in Palm Springs. From pool parties to ski-themed soirees and T-Dances, the White Party offers an array of attractions.
Sitges Bear Week
Sitges Bear Week is a complete celebration of the bear community. It runs from September 5 to 14. From partying and socializing to cultural enrichment, this event offers participants a friendly and inclusive atmosphere in which to enjoy a diverse range of activities. Themed parties, including a pool party, Mr Bear Sitges competitions and many other delights brighten participants’ spirits. Every year, the event continues to grow in popularity, making it an important fixture in the LGBTQ+ calendar.
Trans Week: Provincetown
Originally known as Fantasia Fair, Trans Week is a very important event for the transgender community. Taking place from October 19 to 26, the event represents a concrete space for empowerment, education and celebration. Trans Week includes a wide range of activities and opportunities for participants. You can take part in activities such as fashion shows, workshops, keynote speeches and various social events. It’s a place of learning, expression and community-building, catering to a wide range of gender identities and expressions.
Folsom Street Fair
It’s an event where everything goes: BDSM, kink, bondage. At the Folsom Street Fair… On September 28, you’ll be able to watch all kinds of fetish shows, listen to top DJs, take part in gay parties and discover some 200 stalls selling kinky items. The best part is that you’ll have the chance to meet new people.
Southern decadence
This is one of the most iconic LGBT+ events of the year, from August 28 to September 1ᵉʳ. The Southern Decadence Festival takes place over Labor Day weekend every August. New Orleans comes alive for five days with a series of street festivals, parades and gay circuit parties, offering a real spectacle. Don’t miss the iconic parade led by the marshals in the French Quarter on Sunday.
