With so much focus on the world’s major pride celebrations this month, it’s easy to see why everyone’s enthusiastic, especially with marriage equality just around the corner. Los Angeles Pride went off without a hitch (and even an impromptu dance from Channing Tatum and Matt Bomer), and San Francisco and New York Pride are both just a stone’s throw away.
But don’t let these gay mecca events fool you — there are some absolutely incredible prides coming up that you might not always think of first. They’re every bit as amazing.
Here are five off-the-beaten-path Pride celebrations:
Sitges sits a brief 45 minutes south of Barcelona and one of Europe’s gayest — and largely undiscovered — gems. Sitges Gay Pride is always a flamboyant affair, and the 2015 event will be no different. Expect colorful outfits leaving little to the imagination, lots of drag performances and some of the best dance parties Spain can offer. Most of the activities take place on or near Sitges Promenade.
Twin Cities Pride – June 26-28
Deborah Cox, Peaches, and oh, did we mention Lily Tomlin?! With a lineup like that, we’d go anywhere for a pride. Luckily this one is in Minneapolis, which is quite charming this time of year. And maybe it’s just us, but when we hear Latrice Royale is going to perform, it makes us want to hop on over to the midwest. Other highlights are the pool party and the nautical-themed Hey, Sailor!
Amsterdam Pride – June 28-July 2
No city parties quite like Amsterdam, and Pride is no exception. Crowds pack the narrow streets as pride floats actually float by in the canals. It’s a sight to behold. Expect wild parties everywhere you turn.
Reykjavik is dynamic, cosmopolitan and increasingly open minded. In 2010 Iceland became the ninth country in the world to legalize same sex marriage. Icelanders like to party late, so be sure to take a disco nap before going out, and feel free to stay out all night long. Laugavegur Street is the epicenter of pride.
Austin Pride – September 29 – October 4
The downtown warehouse district is the home to a number of gay bars and a few gay bars and clubs are sprinkled around town. The numerous universities and the city’s strong tech industry make for a young vibrant crowd and it seems like there are people from everywhere here. Add this to the fact that Austin is the gay capital of Texas and you’ve got the makings for one epic pride.
