Colour, fun and a vibrant atmosphere at the crowd-pulling Benidorm Pride parade
Thousands of people attended the traditional ‘parade’, which has now become one of Europe’s leading events for LGBTIQ+ tourism
Several thousand people once again filled the streets and avenues along the route of Benidorm Pride parade this Saturday, in what was undoubtedly one of the biggest Pride parades in the city’s history. From its departure from Ametlla de Mar Avenue shortly after 4:30 p.m. to its arrival at Julio Iglesias Auditorium, thousands of spectators followed the fun, lively and colourful parade organised for the occasion. The event featured 16 floats, seven walking entertainment groups and several hundred participants, who joined the procession either as groups or individually, wearing a wide variety of costumes and outfits.
The parade was the main event of Benidorm Pride, a week-long celebration organised by the LGBTIQ+ community that brings the most important Pride celebrations in Europe to a close. Rainbow flags, costumes, floats, trucks, and large numbers of people walking and dancing showcased the most diverse and welcoming side of Benidorm, a leading European destination for LGBTIQ+ tourism. Benidorm Mayor Toni Pérez; Councillor for Events Jesús Carrobles; and Councillor for Equality Ángela Zaragozí attended the start of the colourful parade, accompanied by several members of the Municipal Corporation.
The organisers, Benidorm City Council and Visit Benidorm, estimate that more than 20,000 visitors have travelled to the city specifically to take part in these days of celebration and campaigning. Most have come from the United Kingdom, as was evident along the parade route and during the preceding days, although visitors have also arrived from other parts of Spain and Europe.
The parade set off from the junction of Ametlla de Mar Avenue and Levante Beach Promenade and travelled along the seafront, reaching Europa Avenue, where it turned onto Mediterranean Avenue towards Plaza de la Hispanidad. From there, it continued along l’Aigüera Avenue before arriving at the Julio Iglesias Amphitheatre. The celebrations continued there with the Main Stage at the auditorium, featuring DJs and live performances.
On the final day, tomorrow, Sunday, further celebrations will also take place in the Old Town.
