Valencia Welcomes You to Gay Games 2026

Valencia is buzzing with excitement as it prepares to host Gay Games XII on Spain’s southeastern coast.

Spain will take center stage this summer as it hosts the Gay Games 2026, one of the world’s largest inclusive sporting and cultural events. Scheduled from June 27 through July 4, the event is already generating strong international interest and anticipation, with registration open, bookings flying, and thousands of participants expected to attend.

Valencia beat out top contenders, Munich (Germany) and Guadalajara (Mexico), to host the world’s largest LGBTQ+ sporting event. The Federation of Gay Games judges said the city’s “open, egalitarian, diverse, and inclusive character” was the reason it beat out others to host the queer sporting event. 

“We feel that Valencia will bring a rich dimension to the Games and, this being the first Games to be held in Spain, it will have a positive impact on the city,” said Joanie Evans, co-president of the FGG.

The unique event will bring together thousands of people under the motto of inclusion, respect, diversity, and celebration. Giuseppe Giulio, Project Manager at JN Global Project, the agency responsible for international promotion of the Gay Games, teased the event at ITB Berlin: “We expect between 10,000 and 12,000 participants overall, making this a truly major international gathering.”

Valencia’s Sports Council believes the event will attract more than 100,000 visitors. “The Gay Games would become the most important sporting event in the Valencian Community, after the America’s Cup,” said a spokesperson for the council. 

The event will include various cultural activities and is expected to attract more than 15,000 athletes and 100,000 visitors, according to Valencia’s sports council. And it’s expected to give the city’s economy a boost, too, of more than 150 million.

The Games last a little over a week and will host competitions of more than 30 different types of sport including Valencian pilot (or the colpbol), sailing, rowing, basketball, beach volleyball, hockey, soccer, rugby, fencing, cycling, tennis, and yes, even novelty games such as e-sports or quidditch. 

Valencia is a highly progressive and welcoming city with a thriving LGBTQ+ scene centered largely in the creative Ruzafa neighborhood and the historic El Carmen district. Whether you are visiting for the nightlife, the Mediterranean beaches, or major upcoming events like the Gay Games XII in 2026, the city offers a blend of historic charm and modern inclusivity, according to the Nomadic Boys.

Major Events

• Gay Games XII Valencia 2026: From June 27 to July 4, 2026, Valencia will host this massive international sporting and cultural event, featuring 39 disciplines and a dedicated “Gay Games Village” at the futuristic City of Arts and Sciences.
• Valencia Pride (Orgull València): Typically held at the end of June, featuring a colorful parade from the Exposition Bridge to the Plaza del Ayuntamiento, followed by a massive open-air party.
• Las Fallas (March): While not an LGBTQ+ event, this world-famous fire festival in mid-March is very popular with the community and often features queer-themed sculptures and specialized parties.

Where to Stay

Valencia offers a variety of LGBTQ+-welcoming accommodations, ranging from the city’s only dedicated gay hotel to highly rated boutique stays and social hostels. For the most immersive experience, you should focus on the Axel Hotel Valencia, a historic adults-only property.

Axel Hotel Valencia (El Carmen): The only dedicated gay hotel in the city, this 4-star, adults-only boutique property opened in 2025 in a renovated 17th-century building. Modern design meets historic architecture, known for a “cheeky” and inclusive atmosphere. Features a wellness club with a spa, gym, sauna, and a seasonal pool. Home to the iconic Café de las Horas bar, which serves as a major community meeting point.

Boutique & LGBTQ+ Friendly Options 

These hotels are highly recommended for their welcoming atmosphere and central locations near nightlife. 

Petit Palace Ruzafa (Ruzafa): A “Travel Proud” certified property located in the heart of the most vibrant LGBTQ+ neighborhood. It is praised for its chic rooms and proximity to queer-friendly cafés and bars.

MYR Hotel Puerta Serranos (El Carmen): A polished 4-star hotel near the historic city gates. It is frequently cited as a top gay-friendly choice for its upscale service and rooftop terrace views.

YOURS Boutique Hotel (Ruzafa): An ultra-modern boutique hotel with a pool and a minimalist aesthetic, located right in the colorful Ruzafa district.

Explore the Gay Games program and participate here. Find your best airfare here. For exceptional hotels in Valencia, go here.