Gay Pride demands diversity and sexual freedom in many Spanish cities. We’ll tell you how this movement came about and where to celebrate it.

No one should be ashamed of their sexual orientation. We should all be free to express ourselves and show who we are. These are the main demands of International Gay Pride, or LGTBI Pride. With this celebration, the group fights against marginalisation due to people’s tastes or sexual/affective identity.

The Meaning of Gay Pride

The origin of this initiative dates back to 28th June, 1969, when the New York police raided the Stonewall pub, a popular club within the LGTBI community; although at that time this type of raid was common, on this occasion the police lost control and the clientele rebelled. These actions led to a series of violent events known as the Stonewall riots, which marked the beginning of the commemoration of LGTBI Pride and, as a result, the fight for the rights of homosexuals.

Therefore, Gay Pride is a tribute to those brave individuals who felt the courage and responsibility to fight for their rights.

Gay Pride in Madrid

28th June, 2018 marks 40 years since Madrid’s first demonstration for the right to love freely.

After the huge success of the last WorldPride, Madrid has become the go to LGTBIQ + destination in the world; although Gay Pride dates vary slightly in each country, the celebration is from 28 June to 8 July in Spain. MADO'18 will offer free concerts, parties, culture, art and sport in the heart of the capital.

If you want to come celebrate these four decades of sexual liberation struggles and victories in Spain, the Hotel Elba Madrid Alcalá is the perfect spot thanks to its location on the well known Calle Alcalá, only 15 minutes on metro from the Chueca neighbourhood.