Valencia, June 23, 2026 – From June 27 to July 4, 2026, Valencia will host the XII Gay Games, the world’s largest international event celebrating sport, culture and diversity. For the first time, this global event comes to Spain and the Mediterranean, reinforcing Valencia’s position as an open, inclusive city ready to host major international events.
More than 10,000 participants and 81 countries represented
More than 10,200 participants from 81 countries will gather in the city to compete in 37 sporting disciplines and enjoy an extensive cultural and social programme. Organisers expect nearly 40,000 visitors during the event week, generating an estimated economic impact of €120 million and around 250,000 overnight stays.
The selection of Valencia as host city places it alongside international destinations that have previously hosted the Gay Games. Including San Francisco, Sydney, Paris, Cologne and Hong Kong. This recognition strengthens Valencia’s position as a European benchmark for hosting international congresses, sporting events and initiatives linked to social innovation, diversity and culture.
A city ready to welcome talent, investment and global projects
At Invest in Valencia, we promote the city’s international projection as a competitive environment for companies, investors and professionals seeking to grow in Europe. Hosting the Gay Games 2026 reinforces this vision: Valencia combines connectivity, quality of life, talent, infrastructure and an international outlook.
Competitions and activities will take place across more than 40 venues throughout the city and its metropolitan area. Locations such as Estadi Ciutat de València, La Petxina, La Fonteta and the Turia Gardens will become gathering points for participants, visitors and residents.
Beyond sport, the programme will include exhibitions, concerts, film festivals, fashion shows, conferences and awareness-raising activities that showcase Valencia’s creative, diverse and international character. Highlights include the Valencia Queer exhibition, the Pride in Motion film festival and the Valencia Queer Fashion Show.
An opportunity to strengthen Valencia’s international brand
The Gay Games reinforce Valencia’s strategy as an international destination for investment, talent and major events. A city that combines innovation, sustainability, connectivity and quality of life, and continues to gain international visibility as a place to live, work, invest and develop globally impactful projects.
At Invest in Valencia, we support companies, investors and international projects looking to establish themselves, grow or connect with the Valencian ecosystem. Beyond their sporting and cultural dimension, the Gay Games 2026 provide an opportunity to showcase to the world the attributes that define Valencia: an international, innovative and diverse city with an exceptional quality of life, capable of attracting talent, investment and major global projects.
Valencia once again takes its place on the global stage as a city ready to compete among the world’s leading international destinations.
