Malta truly guarantees a warm welcome for everyone!
Next month our favourite island in the Mediterranean is readying itself to show just how much, as it hosts EuroPride 2023.
EuroPride is an annual L.G.B.T.Q. event, with its origins in 1992. Each year a new city is awarded the status of host city and this year the event will be visiting Valletta, the smallest host city to date.
The Maltese Archipelago has experienced a definite and positive shift towards greater cultural acceptance of LGBTQ+ people over the years. So much so, the Maltese Islands has topped the ILGA-Europe Rainbow Europe Index for seven consecutive years, since 2016.
Homosexuality was decriminalised in 1973, leaving residents and tourists free to have same-sex relationships without fear of persecution. Since then, LGBTQ+ rights have continued to improve, with lesbian, gay, and bisexual people permitted to serve openly in the military since 2002 and the country throwing it’s first Pride march in 2004.
Visitors can also be safe in the knowledge that it’s not just all talk – Malta actually lives up to its reputation as a safe space for the LGBTIQ+ community.
EuroPride 2023 is a place for celebration and promises to be the largest gathering of love and diversity Malta has ever seen - which is evident from it's tagline "Equality From The Heart"
It's a 10 day non-stop party, which commences on the 7th of September, with Pride marches taking place in Valletta, and Gozo, along with tribute nights, a conference, oodles of concerts and vibrant theme parties.
The event even has it's own really catchy anthem
The heart of EuroPride 2023 can be found at the Pride Village which will be located in Pjazza Tritoni in Malta.
Across the 10 days, there is a spectacular line-up, including a Eurovision Night, where you will be able to catch Eurovision Song Contest winners Conchita and Katrina & The Waves performing. How much fun will that be!
The Opening of EuroPride 2023 kicks off on the 7th of September at iconic Tritons Square (Pjazza Tritoni) in Malta with celebrations also taking place in Freedom Square, Castille Place and St George's Square in Valletta. (The opening event in Gozo will be on the 9th.)
In Malta this opening concert features a special performance by another Eurovision Song Contest winner, the incredibly talented NETTA. Get ready to dance, sing along, and be mesmerized by her sensational performance as she sets the stage on fire with her infectious energy.
Oh but it gets even better, as the headliner is none other than..............
The amazing Christina Aguilera!
This lovely lady has a remarkable talent and unwavering support for the LGBTIQ+ community which makes her the perfect choice for this incredible event. Christina will take to the stage at The Granaries, Floriana on the 16th of September promising a set which will leave us in awe.
PLUS - Its completely free to attend!
Supporting acts for The Official EuroPride Valletta 2023 Concert include, Ira Losco, the iconic Maltese singer-songwriter and Eurovision star, and direct from their smash-hit run in London’s West End and countless 5-star reviews at the Edinburgh Fringe Festival, QUEENZ with their drag extravaganza!
The highly anticipated EuroPride March also takes place in Malta on the 16th of September and in Gozo (Victoria) on the 9th.
The vibrant streets will come alive with a kaleidoscope of colours, energy, and the unwavering spirit of the LGBTIQ+ community and its allies.
The EuroPride March is not just a walk; "it’s a declaration of love, equality, and inclusion" and the atmosphere will be charged with excitement, packed with vibrant colours, the sky ablaze with inspiring banners and flags, and the air filled with uplifting chants.
Get ready to join the party and what will undoubtedly be an historic event.
The full event schedule can be found in the link below.
Lastly, here are 5 LGBTQI+ friendly bars and clubs to visit during the celebrations
Alchemy – if you love a good cocktails, then this is the place to visit as mixology is their forte.
93-94 Strait Street, the GUT, Valletta
Michelangelo Club Lounge – taking up two floors, the club is a must for anyone who loves a dance or a drag show.
Qube Level 1, St Rita Steps, Saint Julian's, San Giljan, Stj 3341
Lollipop Club Night – dubbed a ‘pop trash gay club night’ you can find them taking place at various venues across Malta.
Yard 32 – a cosy bar with over 200 gins and 40 tapas on the menu.
32 Strait St, 1010 Valletta, Central Region, Valletta
Maori – offering scenic coastal views, this bar is perfect spot for a relaxing drink.
Triq il-lanca, VLT 1820 Valletta
Images courtesy of EuroPride Malta 2023