Things to know about Gran Canaria Pride

Twice a year, members of the LGBT community from around the world come together to celebrate Pride in one of the most LGBT-friendly destinations in Europe, Gran Canaria.

With the help of one of our On the Beach colleagues, we’ve created the ultimate guide of what you need to know about Gran Canaria Pride…

When to go

Gran Canaria Pride takes place twice a year in May and November. The May event lasts for 2 weeks with the first week featuring markets and a more chilled-out atmosphere with the second week more about the entertainment and dancing until the sun rises…

If two weeks seems like too much of a commitment, why not try 10 days? That way you’ll get to experience the best of both weeks and get a taste for the quiet side of pride and the party atmosphere.

A view of Maspalomas Beach…

Where to eat

Gio & Ritz Cafe in Playa del Ingles offers amazing home-made food, perfect after a late night. From steaks to pasta, this little gem offers everything you could ever need in terms of great cuisine. With great service and friendly, welcoming staff, there’s no doubt that this little jaunt will become one of your favourites…

Entertainment

The entertainment at Gran Canaria Pride is non-stop from the minute you wake up to the moment you finally decide to call it a night. Head to the main stage in the Yumbo Centre to see some of the biggest acts around or head to one of the local bars to catch one of the island’s well known drag shows…

The traditional parade takes place during a late afternoon and features dancers, floats, costumes and everyone is encouraged to get involved by following the parade around it’s local route…

The main parade takes place in Gran Canaria…

Best Bars

The heart of the LGBT community in Gran Canaria can be found at the Yumbo Centre, a meeting of 6 bars in one big square…

Mantrix Disco Club is one of the most popular clubs in the Yumbo Centre offering the best international house music and resident DJ’s. Chez Funny Boys is a great place to enjoy a cocktail whilst Ricky’s Cabaret Bar and Sparkles Show Bar boasts an enviable drag line-up…

Where to stay

The 3* Gold Hotel Marina is an adult-only resort in Playa del Ingles. As well as 2 large swimming pools and sunbathing terraces, you’ll also find a poolside bar, gym and Jacuzzi all just a short distance from the beach and a shopping centre located next door.

Also in Playa del Ingles, the 3* Los Tucanes Apartments, a gay-men only resort, are located just 200m from the Yumbo Centre and 900m from the beach with a large swimming pool also on site.

The 4* Gold Hotel Marina…

So there you have it, everything you could ever know about experiencing Pride in Gran Canaria. Winter Pride takes place from 7th-13th November so make sure you book your stay well in advance…

Have you previously been to Gran Canaria Pride? Let us know your thoughts in the comment box below…