The best cities in the world to celebrate Pride

Every year, Pride parades, protests, and celebrations around the world mark the continued global fight for LGBTQ+ rights and offer a vibrant display of love, acceptance, and diversity. Whether you're looking for a parade with a rich history or a festival that turns an entire city into a rainbow-colored party, discover the Bookitlist pick of the best cities in the world to celebrate Pride.

New York City

The Big Apple knows how to throw a Pride party like no other. NYC is the birthplace of the Pride movement and every June 28, it commemorates the Stonewall Riots with one of the largest Pride Parades on the planet. Millions flock to the city that never sleeps to celebrate love and equality. Expect a vibrant mix of floats, fabulous costumes, and an atmosphere that screams liberation and joy.

Check out our guide to NYC Pride.

London

London's Pride Parade is a true reflection of the city's cosmpolitan spirit. With some 1.5 million people celebrating across the capital, London embraces Pride with open arms and an open heart. The entire city transforms into a carnival of diversity, where everyone is welcome to join the celebration. From colorful parades to rocking parties, London's Pride is a non-stop fiesta.

Check out our guide to London Pride.

Madrid

Madrid's Pride is not just a parade; it's a full-blown festival! Europe's largest Pride celebration takes over the Spanish capital with a week of non-stop fun. The gay neighborhood of Chueca becomes the epicenter of the party, with unofficial antics spilling into Malasaña. The parade on July 1 is a spectacle of floats, performers, and pure excitement. Don't forget to catch the high-heels race and the cultural events that make Madrid's Pride a true celebration of life.

Check out our guide to Madrid Pride.

São Paulo

Welcome to São Paulo, where the world's largest Pride parade attracts over 5 million attendees! This South American metropolis is a hub of arts, culture, and nightlife. The city's inclusive vibe and vibrant spirit make it a top destination for LGBTQ+ travelers. São Paulo Pride is a massive celebration that takes over the city with its energy and excitement.

Check out our guide to São Paulo Pride.

Toronto

Toronto's Pride is one of the most diverse and dynamic in the world. Spanning the entire month of June, the celebration culminates in a week of parades, including the Dyke March, Trans March, and the grand Pride Parade. Toronto Pride features parties at unique venues like the Royal Ontario Museum and even an aquarium. Don't miss the TreeHouse Party on June 25, an all-day rave with drag queens and DJ sets, supporting The 519, Toronto's LGBTQ+ center.

Berlin

Berlin's Pride, known as Christopher Street Day (after the street in NYC where the Stonewall riots took place) is a vibrant celebration that includes a parade through the city, ending at the iconic Brandenburg Gate. The preceding weekend features the Lesbian & Gay City Festival in Nollendorfplatz, complete with street food, music, and dancing. Berlin's diverse LGBTQ+ club scene ensures that the party continues long into the night

Taipei

Taipei Pride is the biggest in Asia and it's nothing short of spectacular. Held in October rather then the summer, this celebration has grown exponentially since its inception in 2003. Taipei's streets come alive with colorful parades, parties, and entertainment. The city's welcoming atmosphere and thriving LGBTQ+ community make Taipei Pride an event you don't want to miss.

Check out our guide to Taipei Pride.

Brighton

Brighton & Hove might be a small city, but its Pride celebration is one of the UK's biggest and boldest. With over 500,000 attendees, Brighton Pride is a vibrant and inclusive event that takes over the entire city. From the fabulous parade to the lively parties, Brighton Pride is a celebration of love and diversity that lights up the south coast.

San Francisco

San Francisco, the gay capital of the USA, knows how to put on a Pride celebration. Every summer, the city's Civic Center Plaza becomes a hub of concerts, cabaret, exhibitions, and talks. The Pride Parade, held on the last Sunday of June, features over 200 floats and contingents, including the legendary Dykes on Bikes. With over 1 million attendees, San Francisco Pride is a must-see event full of glitter and glam.

Check out our guide to San Francisco Pride.

Amsterdam

Why limit the celebration to just one day when you can have a whole week? Amsterdam Pride 2024 kicks off on July 27 and will turn the city into a dazzling fiesta. Imagine the iconic canals filled with colorful boats for the two-day canal parade – it's a floating party! Don't miss the Pride Walk, Pride Park's musical performances, and the electric street parties. Amsterdam doesn't just wear its heart on its sleeve; it flaunts it in every color of the rainbow.

Check out our guide to Amsterdam Pride.