Pride month in Catalonia
Every year the LGBTI community celebrates across the globe. Various events are held during this special month to celebrate pride in Barcelona and promote the self-affirmation, equality and increased visibility of lesbian, gay, bisexual, transgender, and intersex people around the world.
LGBTI Pride in Barcelona
The history of gay rights in Spain
Spain has made significant progress in advancing equality and LGBTI rights. The approval of same-sex marriage reflected a broader shift in social attitudes, and in 2013, the Pew Research Centre identified Spain as the country with the highest level of acceptance of homosexuality.
Catalonia has played a key role in supporting LGBTI inclusion and in developing policies to combat homophobia and discrimination. Barcelona City Council has demonstrated a long-standing commitment to civil rights, beginning in 1995 with the creation of the Department of Civil Rights. This commitment continued with the establishment of the LGBTI Municipal Council in 2004, which works to promote equal rights, freedom, and visibility for LGBTI people in the city.
LGBTI Centre
Barcelona is home to a dedicated LGBTI Centre that provides a range of support services for the community. The centre offers legal, social, psychological, and emotional assistance, helping individuals understand their rights and access the support they need. Services include counselling, sexual health resources, legal guidance, and more.
In addition to its support work, the centre hosts events and activities that foster connection and inclusion, particularly valuable for newcomers to the city looking to engage with the local LGBTI community. Through its initiatives, the centre contributes to making Barcelona a city that values diversity and works actively to combat discrimination.
Gay pride in Barcelona
A 2017 survey by Nestpick ranked the top 100 cities with active LGBTI communities in celebration of Pride Month. Criteria included a vibrant dating and nightlife scene, public attitudes, safety, and national legislation, such as marriage and adoption rights. Given these factors, it’s no surprise that both Barcelona and nearby Sitges ranked among the world’s most inclusive and welcoming cities for LGBTI individuals.
Barcelona’s nightlife continues to be a key draw for both locals and expats. The city is home to numerous gay-friendly clubs, bars, and restaurants, offering many opportunities to meet new people and feel part of the community. While LGBTI venues can be found across the city, the Eixample district (often referred to as “Gaixample”) is the heart of Barcelona’s gay nightlife, easily recognised by its Pride flags and inclusive atmosphere.
Barcelona is also a member of the Rainbow Cities Network, an international coalition of cities committed to advancing LGBTI policies and rights.
- 28th June - 20th July 2025
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Barcelona Pride Parade 2025
One of the city’s major annual events is the Barcelona Pride parade, which has been celebrated since its first edition on the 26th June 1977. Today, it remains a vibrant expression of visibility, solidarity, and celebration. The parade kicks off at Parque de las Tres Chimeneas and follows a lively route along Avenida del Paral·lel, one of the city’s main avenues, before concluding at the iconic Plaça d’Espanya. This route offers a scenic and central setting for both participants and spectators.
In addition to the parade, the heart of the celebration can be found at the Pride Village, located in Plaça Universitat. This area serves as the main gathering space throughout the Pride festivities and hosts an array of live performances, cultural events, and community activities. It’s a key meeting point that encapsulates the inclusive spirit of the event.
Barcelona Pride also features a diverse line-up of events beyond the parade and main village. Attendees can enjoy live music performances, DJ sets, drag shows, and artistic exhibitions. There are also workshops and discussions focused on LGBTQ+ rights and issues, as well as family-friendly activities designed to welcome people of all ages. These events are spread across various venues throughout the city, reinforcing Barcelona’s commitment to celebrating and supporting the LGBTI community in all its diversity.
- Saturday 19th July 2025
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Pride in Sitges
Sitges, a vibrant seaside town on Spain’s Mediterranean coast, is renowned for its welcoming LGBTQ+ community and hosts one of Europe’s most celebrated Pride events. In 2025, Sitges Pride will offer five days of festivities that blend beachside relaxation with lively celebrations.
The heart of the festivities is the Pride Village, situated along the picturesque Passeig Marítim. Each evening, the village comes alive with over 80 free performances, including drag shows, tribute concerts, and dance parties. Highlights include the Drag Domination.
Beyond the nightly shows, Sitges Pride offers a variety of daytime events. On Thursday 5th June, the Pride Pool Party provides a refreshing escape with DJs and sun-soaked fun. On Friday 6th June, the Sunset Pool Tea Dance takes place at Hotel MIM, offering cocktails and panoramic views. Saturday’s Drag Brunch at Le Patio combines delicious food with dazzling performances, and the High Heel Race adds a dash of humour and competition to the weekend.
The pinnacle of Sitges Pride is the Pride Parade on Sunday 8th June. The parade begins on Passeig Marítim, proceeds past the iconic church at La Fragata, and concludes at the intersection of Passeig Marítim and Avinguda Sofia. Featuring over 20 floats and more than 2,000 participants, the parade is a vibrant display of unity and celebration. Following the parade, the festivities continue with the Sunday Tea Dance in the Pride Village, ensuring the celebration carries on into the evening.
- 4th - 8th June
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Circuit Festival
Circuit Festival, the largest international gay event, returns to Barcelona for its 16th anniversary edition. The city comes alive with a celebration of pride, love, and individuality, featuring a diverse lineup of events spread across various iconic venues.
Highlights of the festival include unforgettable parties, an exhilarating Waterpark Day, an open-air party, and numerous other events that cater to a wide range of interests. Attendees can enjoy performances by world-class DJs, themed parties, and cultural activities that showcase the vibrant LGBTQ+ community.
Tickets and all-access passes are available for purchase on the official Circuit Festival website. Early booking is recommended, as many events sell out in advance.
- 9th - 17th August
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LGBTI in Catalonia
Among the many options for LGBTI travellers in Catalonia, it’s humbling to see that the majority of hotels define themselves as gay-friendly. You can also find food and wine tourism, sports activities, luxury, or nature experiences exclusively organised for the LGBTI community. It goes without saying that Catalonia is a home to everyone!
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