LGBTQ+ Inclusive Festive Events to Celebrate the Christmas Spirit
December 12, 2023As the holiday season approaches, the air is filled with excitement and anticipation for the festivities ahead. While Christmas often conjures images of cozy gatherings with family and friends, it is essential to remember that the spirit of inclusivity should embrace everyone, regardless of their sexual orientation or gender identity. In recent years, there has been a remarkable shift towards organizing LGBTQ+ inclusive events during the lead up to Christmas, providing a safe and joyful space for the community to celebrate. These events not only emphasize the values of love, acceptance, and equality but also promote the spirit of togetherness during this magical time of the year.
We want to explore and highlight some of the vibrant LGBTQ+ inclusive festive events that are taking place in various cities worldwide. From festive dinners and markets to drag queen performances, these gatherings offer a unique opportunity to celebrate diversity while warmly welcoming LGBTQ+ individuals and their allies into the festive fold. By shining a light on these events, we hope to encourage communities everywhere to create inclusive spaces where everyone can share the joy and cheer of the festive season.
1. Winter Pride: Hamburg’s Christmas market for queers and friends
“In the heart of Hamburg, in the middle of St. Georg, the Winter Pride, Hamburg's only queer Christmas market, opens its pink and red doors again this year and attracts many visitors to the trendy district with its unique atmosphere.”
Known as the diverse Chirstmas market for all, just around the corner from Hamburg’s Central Station, the Winter Pride market will once again offer mulled wine, punch and delicacies, artworks and jewellery. Hamburg's only queer Christmas market comes back for a secone year after making a name for itself thanks to its inclusive and welcoming atmosphere.
When: 20th November – 23rd December 2023
Where: Lange Reihe 4, 20099 Hamburg
Image source: Canva
2. Sofar Sounds
Sofar Sounds is known for platforming diverse musicians through intimate concerts, hosted around the world their events are unforgettable. Taking place in unique and unusual venues – from museums and boutiques to rooftops and homes – their LGBTQ+-inclusive events connect people through a love for live music.
In the lead up to the end of the year they have various festive themed events taking place in cities across the world, featuring a cozy setting, amazing music and mulled wine. Whether you join them in Brighton, Madrid, Chicago, or any of the 400 cities they currently organize events in, these special evenings are not to be missed.
When: Throughout December
Where: Global
3. London LGBTQ+ Community Centre: Christmas Eve dinner
Join the London LGBTQ+ Community Centre and The Food Chain for a festive feast on Christmas Eve, make some new friends and make the yuletide super gay. The event is free to attend and includes a yummy Indian winter warmer soup - slightly spicy and warm bread, including gluten-free options and fruits.
The London LGBTQ+ Community Centre is a sober, intersectional community center and café where all LGBTQ+ people are welcome, supported, can build connections and can flourish. Their vision is for a more connected, belonging and thriving LGBTQ+ community in London.
When: Sunday 24th December 2023
Where: 60-62 Hopton Street Thames Path, Bankside London SE1 9JH
4. Margate Pride organizes queer makers market
Margate Pride has organized an upcoming LGBTQ+ market for locals and visitors to support the queer community this festive season. You can expect mulled wine, mince pies and Christmas shopping from Margate’s finest makers.
When: 10am onwards on December 17th
Where: 125 Northdown Rd, Margate, United Kingdom
5. New York’s “Make the Yuletide Gay” holiday tour
Experience the magic of the holiday season with this #1 LGBTQ+ holiday event in NYC - the "Make the Yuletide Gay" Holiday Tour. Celebrate in style as you deck the halls and explore the vibrant midtown district of New York City. This festive tour offers a delightful blend of queer history and holiday enchantment, ensuring an unforgettable experience for all.
Enjoy stops at iconic locations, including the iconic Rockefeller Center with its magnificent Christmas Tree, the dazzling Radio City Music Hall, and the enchanting Bryant Park. Along the way, indulge in a cup of hot chocolate to keep you warm as you soak in the sights and sounds of the season.
When: Throughout December 2023
Where: New York City
6. Christmas at the Royal Albert Hall
Throughout December, the Royal Albert Hall will be hosting an array of festive events, including A Christmas Gaiety. Presented by Royal Albert Hall and PeachOut Productions, it’s a queer festive extravaganza hosted by the legendary drag sensation Peaches Christ and conductor Edwin Outwater. This event, in collaboration with the Clapham Grand, promises an evening of pure entertainment that is bigger, bawdier, and more sensational than ever before. Prepare to be captivated by your favorite Queer icons as they take the stage alongside the renowned BBC Concert Orchestra.
From powerful West End belting to mesmerizing voguing, this concert and variety show will bring a fresh, spicy twist to beloved Christmas classics. Let loose, dress to impress in your most fabulous attire, and gather with your friends and chosen family for the ultimate Christmas party where outrageous moments await. This is the must-attend event of the season that promises to leave you with memories that will last a lifetime.
On top of this, throughout the month, they have a program full of heart-warming live events to be enjoyed with your loved ones. There’s something for everyone, from Christmas carols to traditional concerts, drag, jazz, gospel, and so much more.
When: Throughout December
Where: Royal Albert Hall, London
These events are reaffirming the significance of love, acceptance, and equality during the Christmas season. Let us embark upon this joyful celebration together and spread the message of inclusivity, making this holiday season a truly magical experience for everyone.