Gay Bear Events 2025–2026: Top 10 Bear Weeks & Prides Worldwide
Karl Krause WORLDWIDE: Discover the best gay bear events worldwide in 2025–26. From Bear Weeks to Prides, find dates, tips & destinations for your next LGBTQ+ bear travel adventure. The post Gay Bear Events 2025–2026: Top 10 Bear Weeks & Prides Worldwide appeared first on Gay Travel Blog - Couple of Men.
Mark
As a gay bear couple traveling the world together, Daan and I know that gay bear events are some of the most joyful moments of our journeys. These gatherings celebrate the community’s love for inclusivity, body positivity, and friendship. Whether you’re a big, hairy bear yourself, a cub, an admirer, or simply curious, you’ll find laughter, connection, and plenty of fun at these bear festivals and bear parties. From cozy weekends to massive international bear events, bear weeks and bear prides invite us to share who we are without judgment. In this Couple of Men guide, we share our highlights of the Top 10 Gay Bear Events Worldwide and a regional calendar with even more ideas. Traveling as gay bears means celebrating each other and being part of a worldwide family.
Why gay bear events matter for LGBTQ+ travelers
We’ve joined many LGBTQ+ festivals around the world, but bear gatherings feel closest to who we are. They are places where we can be ourselves: bearded, hairy, and comfortable in our skin. Imagine a week surrounded by other gay bears and their admirers, laughing at pool parties, joining a Mr. Bear contest, or cruising together on a boat trip. These international bear events are about connection, romance, and friendships that last far beyond the weekend.
Advertisement
KLM Real Deal Days
Fly with our partner airline, the LGBTQ+ friendly KLM Royal Dutch Airlines, and its partners Air France and Delta Air Lines in Economy, Premium Comfort and Business Class to LGBTQ+ welcoming destinations worldwide.
Top 10 Gay Bear Events Worldwide
From the beaches of Sitges to the nightlife of Madrid or the small-scale charm of Reykjavík, every bear festival feels different. For us, taking part is like joining a reunion that crosses borders and cultures.
1. Provincetown Bear Week (USA)
Provincetown Bear Week, held each July on Cape Cod, is the largest and most iconic bear event worldwide. Thousands of bears, chasers, and admirers gather for a week of tea dances, beach days, whale watching, and legendary nighttime parties. Commercial Street transforms into a bear hub with daily meet-ups, art shows, and community activities. Highlights include the famous Sunset Cruise, the Ptown Inn pool parties, and the Bear Market where local vendors showcase unique gear. Provincetown Bear Week is about celebrating inclusivity, diversity, and community bonds. Many visitors combine the event with exploring Cape Cod’s beaches and quaint towns, making it both a festival and a summer holiday. We hope we can join this beary celebration one day!
- Date: 11 to 18 July 2026
- Instagram: Official Provincetown Bear Week
- Unique Info: Famous for its Sunset Cruise, a highlight that sells out quickly each year.
2. Sitges Bears Week (Spain)
Sitges, just south of Barcelona, hosts one of Europe’s biggest bear gatherings every September. Sitges Bears Week attracts over 8,000 attendees who flock to the seaside resort for 10 days of sun, sand, and celebrations. The centerpiece is the Bear Village, set up along the seafront, featuring bars, DJ sets, performances, and themed stalls. Expect beach parties, bar crawls, and plenty of nightlife in Sitges’ thriving gay scene. During the day, visitors relax at Playa de la Bassa Rodona, the gay beach, before heading into town for evening festivities. The combination of Mediterranean charm, great weather, and an international crowd makes Sitges Bears Week one of the most unmissable bear events in Europe.
- Date: 5 to 14 September 2025
- Website: Official Sitges Bears Week
- Unique Info: Features a full Bear Village along the beachfront, creating a festival within the town.
- Reading tip: Sitges Gay Cruising Guide 2025
LGBTQ+ travel guides 2025: safe & inclusive
Tested for safety, inclusion, and being a queer welcoming destination worldwide—from vibrant city breaks to outdoor escapes! Our LGBTQ+ and gay travel guides help you to travel with confidence.
3. International Bear Convergence (Palm Springs, USA)
The International Bear Convergence (IBC) is Palm Springs’ premier bear event, held every February. With a desert backdrop and perfect winter sun, IBC offers pool parties, world-class DJs, drag performances, and dance events that transform the city into a global bear hotspot. The main pool parties at host resorts are legendary, attracting thousands of visitors each day, while nighttime mega-events bring international talent. The event draws attendees from across the globe, combining Palm Springs’ retro-cool vibe with modern LGBTQ culture. Whether enjoying the Bear Splash pool event or dancing late into the night at themed parties, IBC sets the standard for winter bear events. It’s also a great opportunity to explore Palm Springs’ mid-century architecture and surrounding desert landscapes.
- Date: 19 to 23 February 2026
- Website: Official International Bear Convergence
- Unique Info: Known for its Bear Splash pool parties, considered the biggest in the world.
- Reading tip: Gay Palm Springs: Our 10 Days in California’s LGBTQ+ Paradise
4. Maspalomas Bear Carnival (Gran Canaria, Spain)
Maspalomas Bear Carnival brings thousands of bears and admirers to Gran Canaria each spring. Known as Europe’s winter-sun paradise, Maspalomas sets the stage with beach outings, spa sessions, pool parties, and boat trips. The Carnival combines Gran Canaria’s legendary LGBTQ nightlife with bear-specific events, creating one of Europe’s most diverse bear festivals. Events range from daytime tanning at Maspalomas’ gay beach and Yumbo Center socials to nighttime DJ sessions and clubbing. The relaxed holiday vibe makes this event especially popular with travelers, combining a sun-soaked vacation with a community celebration. With a mix of international guests, local flair, and the island’s natural beauty, Maspalomas Bear Carnival has quickly become one of the top bear festivals in Europe.
- Date: 19 to 29 March 2026
- Website: Official Maspalomas Bear Carnival
- Unique Info: Combines beach life with Yumbo Center nightlife, offering both day and night experiences.
- Reading tip: Gay Cruising Gran Canaria: Maspalomas Beach & Yumbo Guide 2025
- Travel tips: The 14 Best Gay Men Only Hotels in Maspalomas
Gay Travel Index 2025
The Berlin-based Spartacus informs LGBTQ+ and queer travelers about how gay-friendly a holiday destination is according to several ranking factors and criteria.
Which country ranks first? Where is it safe to travel to as a gay and LGBTQ+ traveler?
You can use the GTI to prepare for your gaycation and as a guide when choosing a holiday destination.
5. Lazy Bear Week (Guerneville, USA)
Lazy Bear Week takes place in Guerneville, California, a forested town along the Russian River. Every summer, thousands of bears gather for a week of block parties, pool events, hikes, and cabaret shows. The event doubles as a fundraiser, raising hundreds of thousands of dollars for local charities. Lazy Bear is known for its laid-back, community-oriented vibe — a mix of outdoor adventure and exciting nightlife. Visitors spend their days tubing down the Russian River, exploring vineyards, or attending drag brunches before dancing into the night at open-air parties. The combination of nature, music, and philanthropy sets Lazy Bear apart from other bear events. This LGBTQ+ event in the USA is ideal for those who want to enjoy California’s wine country while being part of a global bear community.
- Date: 27 July to 3 August 2026
- Website: Official Lazy Bear Week
- Unique Info: Entirely run by volunteers and raises significant funds for local charities.
6. Mad.Bear Madrid (Spain)
Mad.Bear Madrid is Spain’s winter bear festival, held every December in the country’s capital. The event is well-known for its huge dance parties, bar crawls, dinners, and sauna meet-ups. Thousands of international visitors come together, making it one of Europe’s largest indoor bear events. Madrid’s lively gay district, Chueca, becomes the epicenter of activities, with themed parties spanning the city’s biggest clubs and bars. Highlights include the Mr. Mad.Bear contest, leather and fetish events, and live performances. Beyond the nightlife, attendees can enjoy Madrid’s cultural attractions, from museums to Christmas markets, creating a festive atmosphere throughout the city. Mad.Bear Madrid combines Spanish energy with a global bear community spirit.
- Date: 3 to 10 December 2026
- Website: Official Mad.Bear Madrid
- Unique Info: Famous for its Mr. Mad.Bear contest and fetish-themed nights.
7. Reykjavík Bear (Iceland)
Reykjavík Bear is one of the unique bear events, combining Iceland’s natural wonders with social gatherings. Held each August, the program includes Golden Circle tours, trips to the Blue Lagoon, whale watching, and city parties in Reykjavík’s lively bars. The highlight is the “Top-Off Party,” alongside Mr. Bear Iceland competitions and community dinners. Reykjavík Bear is smaller and more intimate than other global bear festivals, creating a welcoming atmosphere for newcomers and seasoned travelers alike. The combination of Iceland’s dramatic landscapes and close-knit community events makes it an unforgettable experience. For many, it’s as much about exploring geysers and waterfalls as it is about nightlife.
- Date: 3 to 6 September 2026
- Website: Official Reykjavík Bear
- Unique Info: Includes nature excursions like the Golden Circle and whale watching.
- Reading tip: Our Gay Iceland Travel Guide
8. BeefDip Bear Week (Puerto Vallarta, Mexico)
BeefDip is Puerto Vallarta’s legendary bear festival, held each January/February. Known for its tropical beaches and vibrant nightlife, PV welcomes bears from across the Americas for this weeklong festival. Events include boat cruises, karaoke nights, charity fundraisers, pool parties, and DJ-driven club events. The atmosphere is both relaxed and celebratory, offering a great mix of daytime beach lounging and high-energy evenings. Puerto Vallarta’s Zona Romántica becomes the hub of the action, with bars, restaurants, and clubs buzzing throughout the week. BeefDip has grown steadily over the years, evolving into Latin America’s flagship bear event. For many, it’s the perfect excuse to escape the cold winter months and enjoy a tropical getaway with a global community.
- Date: 25 January to 1 February 2026
- Website: Official BeefDip Bear Week
- Unique Info: Known for its charity fundraisers that support local causes in Puerto Vallarta.
9. Bear Pride Cologne (Germany)
Bear Pride Cologne is one of Europe’s longest-running bear events, attracting thousands each November. The program includes the Mr. Bear Germany competition, themed parties, cultural tours, and community dinners. Cologne’s vibrant LGBTQ nightlife adds extra sparkle, with events across bars, clubs, and saunas. Visitors can expect everything from leather and fetish nights to casual meet-ups and brunches. The event blends German hospitality with international flair, making it a highlight of the European gay bear calendar. Cologne itself is a welcoming city with rich history and culture, offering plenty to explore alongside the event. Bear Pride Cologne has become a tradition for many, providing both fun and community connections year after year.
- Date: 19 to 23 November 2025
- Website: Official Bear Pride Cologne
- Unique Info: Features the Mr. Bear Germany competition, one of Europe’s most recognized titles.
- Reading tip: Best of Cologne Pride 2025
10. Big Bear Romp (Big Bear Lake, California, USA)
Big Bear Romp in California’s San Bernardino Mountains is a unique bear gathering that mixes parties with outdoor adventure. Taking place each September, it offers pool events, dance nights, and plenty of chances to enjoy the natural surroundings of Big Bear Lake. For us, this event feels extra special as we’re visiting Big Bear Lake on our California trip. The combination of mountain air, scenic views, and a weekend full of bears makes this festival stand out. It’s the perfect option if you want a mix of nightlife and fresh-air activities.
- Date: 13 to 16 August 2026
- Website: Official Big Bear Romp
- Unique Info: Set in the mountains, it combines bear parties with hiking, lake fun, and outdoor adventure.
- Coming soon: Our Gay Big Bear Lake Adventure
Gay bear events worldwide
North America
North America is home to some of the most legendary gay bear events worldwide. Beyond Provincetown, Palm Springs, Guerneville, and Big Bear Lake, there are many other bear weekends and bear festivals worth checking out. In 2025, the calendar is packed with options for every type of traveler. From tropical escapes in Key West to beach parties on Fire Island, these events combine American flair with a strong sense of community. If you’re planning your gay bear travels, this region is a must. We love how each city brings its own twist: New York adds energy, Florida adds sunshine, and the Midwest brings hospitality.
- Key West Bear Weekend (Florida, USA): Tropical escape with pool parties and competitions.
- Fire Island Bear Weekend (New York, USA): Combines beach days with the influence of NYC nightlife.
- North American Bear Weekend (Lexington, USA): Indoor winter gathering with contests and shows.
- HiBearNation (St. Louis, USA): A Midwest tradition with a focus on community and fundraising.
Europe
Europe offers some of the most diverse gay bear festivals worldwide. From massive celebrations like Sitges Bears Week to smaller weekends in Luxembourg or Scotland, there is something for everyone. We’ve found that European bear events often combine sightseeing and culture with lively nightlife, which makes them ideal for travel-loving bears. For 2025 and 2026, Europe remains one of the strongest regions for international bear events. Whether it’s dancing in Brussels, exploring Paris, or enjoying a kilted ceilidh in Edinburgh, these weekends always leave us feeling connected.
- Belgium Bear Pride (Brussels): An autumn celebration with parades, parties, and contests.
- BearScots (Edinburgh, Scotland): Famous for kilts, ceilidh dances, and a warm Scottish welcome.
- Bear Pride Luxembourg: A small but international bear weekend.
- Mr. Bear Poland (Poznań): Blends competition with social events in a historic city.
- Prague Bear Summer (Czech Republic): Combines sightseeing with lively nightlife.
- Fierté Ours (Paris, France): Hosted by Les Ours de Paris, a classic on the European bear map.
Gay Cruising Guides
Together with our dear friend and Gay Cruising Culture expert John, we are showing you the best cruising places of gay-friendly travel destinations worldwide. How to find gay cruising hot spots? How to do gay cruising? Is gay cruising legal ion my gaycation?
South America
South America’s bear scene is growing quickly, and the festivals here bring together local culture with international flair. For us, attending a gay bear event in South America means combining sunshine, friendly hospitality, and vibrant nightlife. The parties are loud, the beaches are stunning, and the people are welcoming. More travelers are discovering these bear weekends, and we expect them to continue growing in 2025 and beyond.
- Woof Week (Rio de Janeiro, Brazil): Combines beach life with Brazilian nightlife, creating a unique bear experience in South America’s gay capital.
Australia & Oceania
The Southern Hemisphere has its share of gay bear events, often timed with Mardi Gras season. Sydney, Melbourne, and Brisbane each offer their twist on the bear weekend formula. These festivals may be smaller than some European or American gatherings, but they are just as full of heart. We hope to return to Australia one day to experience the mix of summer, Pride, and bear parties that make this region special. If you’re planning international bear events in 2025 or 2026, this region deserves a place on your list.
- Sydney Bear Pride (Australia): A companion event to Bear Essentials, with parties and contests.
- Southern HiBearnation (Melbourne, Australia): A winter bear festival featuring competitions and community events.
- Northern Exposure (Brisbane, Australia): Known for pool parties, UnderBear events, and relaxed Aussie vibes.
More gay bear travel inspiration
Want to explore even more of the bear world? Have a look at our dedicated guides and resources:
Stay tuned as we continue to expand our coverage of bear events worldwide and update this page with the latest festival dates and travel tips.
How to plan your gay bear travels with Couple of Men
Planning for bear events requires early booking, especially for accommodations in small towns like Provincetown or Sitges. Many events sell out months in advance, so securing passes and gay-friendly hotels early is essential.
Packing essentials include swimwear, casual wear for day events, and themed outfits for night parties. Respecting local customs and event etiquette is crucial, as is prioritizing inclusivity and safety. By combining bear events with nearby cultural attractions or Pride demonstrations, festivals can become comprehensive vacation experiences.
Do you like it? SHARE & PIN IT!
Do you want to know more about our gay travels as an openly gay couple around the world? Stay tuned on Facebook, Threads, TikTok, YouTube, and Instagram. See you again at one of the world’s gay beaches, gay pride parades, and gay-friendly hotels. Karl & Daan.
The post Gay Bear Events 2025–2026: Top 10 Bear Weeks & Prides Worldwide appeared first on Gay Travel Blog - Couple of Men.
