If you're looking for some gay-friendly fun in the sun, look for further than the Canary Islands. From the islands of Gran Canaria to Tenerife, there is plenty of opportunity to dabble in the different events and activities going on throughout the year.
The main event being Gay Pride, taking place each May, with the next one scheduled for May 6-12 2013. The huge celebration features live music acts, foam parties and other activities including crowning Miss Lesbian Gran Canaria or Mr Gay Gran Canaria.
Each year, thousands of people from all over travel miles to join in the local festivities and attend the celebrations which feature rainbow flags and support for the gay community throughout the island. It's a great excuse to don flamboyant clothing as well, and drag is more than encouraged.
In 2012, there was also a charity gala which raised money for the fight against AIDS. It was the seventh annual gala, so is likely to be running again next year and is worth visiting as it's fun and goes towards a good cause. At the end, there is a ceremony where candles are lit to form a figure in the shape of the AIDS awareness ribbon to honour the memory of those who are suffering from the disease or those who have died from it.
Although Gran Canaria has the biggest gay scene and boasts brilliant carnivals, festivals and events, neighbouring island Tenerife can still hold its own, and is a very popular holiday destination. So don't forget Gran Canaria isn't the only gay friendly island, and there's plenty of opportunity to hop around. Even if you're not up for the parades, there are plenty of places that cater to gays and lesbians throughout the Canary Islands, so don't be afraid to take a trip and see the beautiful scenery for yourself.
The main event being Gay Pride, taking place each May, with the next one scheduled for May 6-12 2013. The huge celebration features live music acts, foam parties and other activities including crowning Miss Lesbian Gran Canaria or Mr Gay Gran Canaria.
Each year, thousands of people from all over travel miles to join in the local festivities and attend the celebrations which feature rainbow flags and support for the gay community throughout the island. It's a great excuse to don flamboyant clothing as well, and drag is more than encouraged.
In 2012, there was also a charity gala which raised money for the fight against AIDS. It was the seventh annual gala, so is likely to be running again next year and is worth visiting as it's fun and goes towards a good cause. At the end, there is a ceremony where candles are lit to form a figure in the shape of the AIDS awareness ribbon to honour the memory of those who are suffering from the disease or those who have died from it.
Although Gran Canaria has the biggest gay scene and boasts brilliant carnivals, festivals and events, neighbouring island Tenerife can still hold its own, and is a very popular holiday destination. So don't forget Gran Canaria isn't the only gay friendly island, and there's plenty of opportunity to hop around. Even if you're not up for the parades, there are plenty of places that cater to gays and lesbians throughout the Canary Islands, so don't be afraid to take a trip and see the beautiful scenery for yourself.
About the Author:
Cathy Mack is a travel writer who regularly goes to the Canaries on her holidays . For great deals on places to stay from MyTravel, click here .
