Summary
For LGBT visitors, Paris offers an above-average number of attractions, including fantastic annual events. The city of light is a destination where barriers are minimal, and ghettoes are largely a thing of the past. Events like the annual pride parade are among Paris’ most popular and widely attended by residents of all backgrounds. Gay, lesbian, bi, trans, or genderqueer travelers will have no trouble discovering activities in Paris. However, they should not feel confined to just “gay-themed” spots and events. Paris is overall a welcoming city. So whether you’re queer, straight, or prefer to avoid labels, use this guide to explore activities in the city of light.
Looking for a great night out on the town? Consult our shortlist of the best bars and clubs catering to a queer crowd or featuring a friendly mixed atmosphere.
LGBT Pride Parade (Paris Gay Pride)
More a huge street party than a traditional march, the annual LGBT Pride Parade (Marché des Fiertés) is one of Paris’ most popular events, drawing at least half a million people into the streets to celebrate, dance, and enjoy the vibrant atmosphere. Dozens of floats, many equipped with sound systems and lively dancers, lead the procession from the right bank to the left. Additionally, the openly gay former mayor of Paris, Bertrand Delanoe, has previously made appearances, along with various politicians. Street and bar parties in the Marais or Bastille usually follow.
PopinGays Dance Nights
PopinGays is an organization that hosts semi-monthly dance nights featuring rock, pop, and indie music, creating a queer-themed and inclusive atmosphere. Talented DJs enliven these memorable evenings. For further details on upcoming events, you can visit their agenda—although it’s in French, you can easily use Google Translate to find specifics about the next parties.
From the PopinGays website: “We like girls who like girls, and girls who like boys, and boys who like boys, and boys who like girls. We like everyone else too. We enjoy rock, pop, and indie music. We aim to expose as many people as possible to this diverse music. We value diversity for it is a source of life.”
Paris Gay and Lesbian Film Festival
Typically held in December at the Forum d’Images cinema at Les Halles, the Paris Gay and Lesbian Film Festival is a lively week-long event showcasing noteworthy GLBT-themed and directed films that attract large crowds. Featuring everything from romantic comedies to experimental documentaries and adult films, this festival is eagerly anticipated and a major talking point each year.
For details on current screenings and special events, be sure to check the event website for updates.
Paris Feminist and Lesbian Film Festival
This annual festival, organized by the Cinéffable association, offers an exciting array of film screenings, exhibits, concerts, and conferences. It is one of the key events of the year for those interested in women’s issues or queer women. The festival is well-known for screening boundary-pushing films, as well as offering engaging musical acts and timely debates.
To discover information on the current year’s program, please visit the event website for updates.
Gay and Lesbian Theater Festival
The newest addition to Paris’s event calendar, the Gay and Lesbian Theater Festival, aims to elevate GLBTQ artists and showcase their work. The festival offers a diverse range of talent, although many performances are in French, which may limit some visitors’ ability to fully engage. Nevertheless, this new event is worth experiencing.
For current event dates and program details, visit the event website for updates.
Queer Food for Love
Renowned as Paris’ favorite queer-themed collective dinner, Queer Food for Love gathers an array of talented volunteer cooks who prepare delicious vegan and vegetarian dishes served with flair and love. This experience is reminiscent of a Berkeley co-op, featuring colorful picnic tables surrounding La Nouvelle Rotisserie, a communal kitchen that partners with a different association each evening.
Details:
Dates and times vary. For more information on upcoming pop-up dinner nights, please refer to the official site (In French only—use Google Translate if necessary!).
La Nouvelle Rotisserie
4 rue Jean et Marie Moinon, 75010.
Also see: QFFL San Francisco
