The Balcony of the Mediterranean is one of the locations for Benidorm Pride events. | Photo: Wiki
Brits’ favorite Benidorm is ready to celebrate Pride with a week-long festival, from 3 to 9 September.
Once a fishing village, the city in the Spanish province of Alicante has attracted tourists since the 80s and is now a popular sunny hotspot on the Costa Blanca.
British people seem to be especially fond of its stunning beaches, as the hilarious ITV show Benidorm proved for ten seasons.
Benidorm has also gained a reputation as one of the biggest LGBTI festivals in Spain. Started as a small event, Pride attracted 15,000 revelers in 2017.
Now in its eighth year, Benidorm Pride will celebrate the LGBTI community with seven days of events and parties.
Benidorm Pride festival
The stunning Voramar Roof Terrace. | Photo: Benidorm Pride Festival/Facebook
The fun starts in the gay village. This is nestled in the most picturesque, authentic part of the city, the old town, away from the hotel resorts.
On 3 and 4 September, visitors will have time to hit one of the many sandy beaches by day and explore the old town by night. The LGBTI village has more than 30 bars and restaurants to choose from.
The official opening party is on Wednesday 5 September in the breathtaking location of Mirador del Castillo, a terrace covered with rustic checkered tiles overlooking the bay.
The lineup for the night includes local artists, drag queens, dancers, and DJs.
This stunning setting will be the same as Thursday’s White Party.
The weekend has an early start with the Sandia Pool Party at Discoteca Penelope kicking off at 3pm on Friday 7 September.
By night, wear as little as you want – as long as it’s black! – at the Black Party at the main Pride auditorium.
The annual parade
The parade attracted 15,000 people last year. | Photo: Benidorm Seriously
Saturday 8 September is Pride parade day.
Whether you want to take part in a walking group, parade on a local business float or simply watch those marching in your best attire, Benidorm got you covered.
The march will start on Levante beach and then head to the auditorium Julio Iglesias.
After the parade, head to the T Dance Pride Party. This features the very best of Benidorm talent, singers, dancers, tribute artists, drag performers, and DJs.
And then, back to Discoteca Penelope for the big party by Kluster, one of the biggest names in the gay clubbing scene.
Cure the Sunday blues at the Pride Closing Party on Levante beachfront, hosted by another major club promoter Supermarxe.
Read more about Prides:
8 reasons why Benidorm’s tourist-takeover will never crush its Spanish spirit
