Just before the Summer of 2020, Covid-19 put a stop on almost every major worldwide event, including the Olympics in Tokyo, and Pride events in every country. Many of us have never experienced cancellation of such events, and some Pride parades have never been cancelled in their entire existence. Because of Pride’s cancellation, the world felt more depressing than usual.

Pride is a time to celebrate the happiness, joy, and lives of the LGBTQ+ community; To commemorate the Stonewall riots in the USA at the end of June in 1969. We recognize the LGBTQ+ during Pride to increase visibility and promote equality and strength within the community. All that being said, 2020 sucked. It took away the greatest time of the year for gay people, and for that, it shall never be forgiven.

2021 may be different however (for some cities). With 2020 lockdowns and 2021 vaccines, some parts of the world are slowly starting to get back on track and continue on with life post-Covid. With Pride season coming up, and international travel bans getting lifted (especially for those who are fully vaccinated) the possibility to celebrate Pride (or to travel somewhere to celebrate) is highly likely. Here’s a list of some cities around the world with Pride celebrations. While parades may be either on pause or virtual due to large gathering sizes, there are still many fun events you can partake in.

Newcastle Pride Festival (August 12th - September 5th)

Since a more intense lockdown last year, Australia has gone back mostly to normal life. Because of this, Australia has the luxury of hosting many in-person Pride events and even a Pride march! If you want to head down under, then this Newcastle Pride is an event to check out. Capacity limits and social distancing rules are in measure to maintain safety, but it’s definitely possible to have fun while following rules. If you live in Australia, or travel to Australia is permitted, you may want to check this one out. 

JJ Short-Shorts in Australia

Vallarta Pride (May 24th - 31st)

The infamous Puerto Vallarta is back and ready for more Pride events. Although the main parade won’t be happening this year, you can still enjoy outdoor bars and clubs, and special guest appearances by well known faces like Bianca Del Rio and Crystal Waters. If you’re in desperate need of a vacation, this may necessary. 

JJ Baewatch Bikini in Puerto Vallarta

Birmingham Pride (September 26th and 27th)

Interestingly, the Birmingham Pride celebration in the UK decided to push back into September. Some cities may not be 100% safe into the Summer, but hopefully the Fall is a great time for reopening. You can at least look forward to having a parade and great events later in the year! This celebration has booked Baga Chipz, Boney M. Cheryl, and more. They’re also constantly expanding their lineup, so this is definitely one to keep on your radar. 

JJ Baewatch Bikini and JJ Short Shorts in Birmingham

Miami Beach Pride (September 10th - 19th)

Miami Beach is one of the hottest gay travel destinations, so Pride week in Miami Beach will go beyond your expectations of what Pride parties should be. Miami’s Pride week is also in September, so there’s still tons of time to start planning, and hopes for a full on parade! A-list celebrities like Iggy Azalea and Jordin Sparks.

JJ Classic Briefs in Miami Beach

Taipei Pride (October 19th - 31st)

One of the latest Pride events to take place in the world, Taipei Pride in Taiwan celebrates their pride in October. Taiwan’s Pride Festival is one of the biggest LGBTQ+ events in all of Asia, so it’s definitely one event you want to experience at least once in your life. The event in 2021 will attract around 80,000 people. Let’s hope the world is back to some sort of normalcy by then.

JJ Bikini Brief and JJ Harness in Taipei

Despite the world struggling to get back on track, we at least won’t have to completely cancel Pride this year like we did last. Many countries are doing the best they can from postponing events to later in the year, to making smaller events to compensate for the lack of a parade. If you plan on celebrating this year, remember to follow the health guidelines and rules that the city/country you’re in has in place. Also, keep yourself healthy and safe with alcohol sanitizer (please don’t drink this), and a mask! Nobody can keep the gays down when they’re ready to celebrate. We definitely deserve it.