Although June is the month of Pride par excellence, winter in the Canary Islands also has its standout celebrations. With a spectacular climate and events designed to foster liberty and respect, the Canary Islands are unique.
The Canary Islands are synonymous with sunshine, with a host of leisure activities and spring-like temperatures all year round. Few destinations have such a diverse atmosphere, in which everyone can be their authentic selves and feel completely free. Here, respect is part of daily life, which is why the Canary Islands have become a leading destination for the LGBTQ community, with celebrations that are not restricted to a specific moment but are spread out over months and in various locations.
In this article, we invite you to discover and share the pride that is felt on the islands by learning about all our celebrations. Let the journey commence!
Gran Canaria, LGBTQ destination par excellence
Gran Canaria is one of the main LGBTQ destinations in the world. It's an absolute must (although not the only one!). Here, the events come thick and fast throughout the year. Whereas on the mainland the low temperatures herald a relatively quiet period, the Canary Islands continue enjoying an action-packed calendar. Because winter in Gran Canaria means not only a good climate but also major events.
One of the most widely anticipated is Winter Pride, which is held in November and brings together thousands of people. It's the most important LGBTQ event of the island's winter season and an unmissable date for anyone wanting to enjoy an open and warm setting. What's more, for those who choose to spend New Year in Gran Canaria, the Maspalomas New Year Freedom Festival offers four days of celebration, music and tolerance galore.
As the year goes on, Gran Canaria offers another standout event: Maspalomas Pride, which is held in the first fortnight of May and is the first pride parade in the European calendar. With this event, the island once again becomes a byword for plurality, partying and coexistence, attracting thousands of visitors who come to enjoy an ambience full of energy and respect.
And we shouldn't forget younger but equally significant events such as Gáldar Pride, which takes place in June. This gathering in defence of LGBTQ rights offers an action-packed campaigning programme as well as cultural and fun-filled activities. Lastly, for lovers of more eclectic experiences, the Maspalomas Vive Fest, with events like the famous Bresh party, is not to be missed.
LGBTQ culture in Tenerife
And what can be said about Tenerife that doesn't make it a must-visit place? This island's a gem, not only because of its stunning landscapes and gorgeous climate but also because of its cultural scene and commitment to LGBTQ rights.
ARN – Culture & Business Pride is a clear example of this. This event, which is held in the second half of July every year, extends well beyond music by bringing together influential figures who contribute to raising the profile of sexual diversity in areas such as culture, technology, business, science, the arts and leisure. As well as concerts and shows, ARN Cultural Pride offers talks, debates and round tables where themes related to LGBTQ rights and inclusion are explored. A perfect event for those who wish to enjoy music festivals and are also interested in activism and cultural exchange.
Beautiful and diverse: La Palma in a nutshell
Whoever visits La Palma returns! To a large extent this is due to the Isla Bonita Love Festival, which celebrates “love without labels” throughout the year. Summer accounts for most of the activities, which foster inclusion by means of workshops, talks and film screenings. The most eagerly anticipated moment however is the mega-concert at Tazacorte Harbour, where hundreds of people year after year have been able to enjoy performances by acts like Mónica Naranjo, Brian Cross, Fangoria, Pablo López and LP. The next festival boasts a line-up of top acts such as Chanel, St. Peter and Ricky Martin.
Fuerteventura: much more than an idyll
Another island to add to this incredible archipelago. Fuerteventura, an earthly paradise that throws open its doors and encourages fun. Who can resist? Just close your eyes and imagine the sun beating down on miles of warm beaches and being about to attend Jandía Pride. Shows, a column of floats and a parade calling for equality. An unmissable event!
It's also the perfect chance to discover the Corralejo district, with its diverse ambience, nightlife and bars. Everything's ready to have an unforgettable time in the idyllic setting of Fuerteventura!
Lanzarote: diversity and culture
Lanzarote at last! No tour of the archipelago is complete without visiting this unmissable island. The Tías Diversity Week offers the perfect opportunity to discover its culinary delicacies, savour its unique wines and its extraordinary landscapes. Volcanic jewels that stand out in an island with great sensitivity towards caring for the environment, as fostered by the artist César Manrique.
Journey though Pride: an experience of freedom in the Canary Islands
Touring the islands can be much more than a simple tourist visit. It's an opportunity to have a personal and collective experience in which liberty and plurality are celebrated.
The Canary Islands are ready to welcome you: take part in our events and fill a celebration-packed calendar with glamour and fun. Don't miss out!
