For the first time in history, Spain will be the host of this event, which since 1982 has established itself as a major global celebration of amateur sport and diversity. For eight days, the Valencian capital will be the stage for sporting competitions, cultural activities, exhibitions, concerts, and public events, combining sport, culture, and community.
The Gay Games are open to anyone over 18, regardless of sexual orientation, gender identity, or athletic level. The main objective is to foster participation and cultural exchange. The competition will take place across 46 venues in Valencia and surrounding municipalities, featuring 39 disciplines.
Among the key venues are the Lluís Puig Velodrome, the Marina of Valencia, the Turia Stadium, Malvarrosa Beach, and the historic Trinquet de Pelayo. The most in-demand disciplines include swimming, tennis, athletics, football, and volleyball. Registrations closed on May 31st, with high international participation.
The opening ceremony will be held on Saturday, June 27th, at the Estadi Ciutat de València, featuring performances by Mónica Naranjo, Soraya Arnelas, Fruela, and Choriza May, among others. It will also include the traditional parade of international delegations and the lighting of the symbolic flame.
The cultural program will begin on June 19th and run until July 4th, offering over twenty musical, artistic, cinematic, and social activities. Highlights include the exhibition «Valencia Queer: Identidades Artísticas Contemporáneas» at the Museu de la Ciutat and the Pride in Motion film festival.
Music will play a prominent role with the Cors & Chorals Festival at the Palau de les Arts and the Band Festival at the Palau de la Música. There will also be pop-up concerts, a cheerleading competition at l’Alqueria del Basket, and the creation of an artistic mural in the old Turia riverbed.
The closing ceremony will take place on Saturday, July 4th, at La Fonteta, with performances by Nebulossa, Rebeca, and Mia Collado, along with a fireworks display. The symbolic handover of the host city to Perth for the 2030 edition will also occur.
All information regarding schedules, venues, disciplines, and ticket sales can be found on the official website [https://www.gaygamesvalencia2026.com/](https://www.gaygamesvalencia2026.com/). For inquiries about mobility and traffic, the Valencia City Council provides updates on its mobility page and social media channels.
