In 2017, history was made again for WorldPride Madrid, which welcomed millions of pride enthusiasts to the Spanish capital. Following Spain's inaugural Pride in Barcelona in 1977, Madrid took place the following year, and has done so every year since, except for 1980.Īfter Spain legalized gay marriage in 2005, Madrid Pride achieved record attendance with roughly two million people taking to the city streets to march with pride.

This sentiment is clearly expressed in the mantra of Madrid Gay Pride: 'Pride, example of coexistance'. Every year, the event aims to bring people from diverse backgrounds together to create a united celebration of pride. Madrid Gay Pride started out as a small pride celebration in the 80s, however, it has now transformed into the biggest urban event in Europe. But can you really be surprised? Spain was one of the first countries in the world to legalize gay marriage as far back as 2005, and Madrid remains at the helm of LGBTQ life in the country. Around a quarter of those attending Madrid Gay Pride are visiting from abroad. The Madrid Gay Pride – known as Orgullo Madrid in Spain – features by far the largest gay parade in Europe and one of the biggest in the world. Each year Gay Pride Madrid attracts millions of people, cramming into the streets of the Spanish capital to party and celebrate LGBTQ life.