From drag brunches during the day, to bar-hopping queer spaces into the night, the sun-kissed city of Barcelona has it all. Championing an array of queer spaces, Barcelona has solidified its reputation as the queer hub of the Mediterranean, and with the city embracing its ‘live and let live’ attitude more queer-focused events are popping up and looking hot.
WHAT ARE THE BEST QUEER EVENTS IN BARCELONA?
BOOZY DRAG QUEEN BRUNCH
Don’t forget your sunnies: our Boozy Drag Queen Brunch is bright and bubbly like the cava served on arrival. A sun-soaked rooftop party littered with flowers, greenery, and the thumping base of pick-me-up pop songs – prepare for a fusion of delectable brunch bites, refreshing libations, and captivating entertainment. The event is hosted in collaboration with Boozy Drag Queen Events, overlooking the water at the Latin Palace– it’s the perfect event to shake off the dusties after a big Saturday night.
The event takes place roughly once a month, where we whoop and woo with beaming smiles as queens Tye Olson, Lady Red Velvet, Emmie Reek, and the crowned winner of Drag Race España, Pitita, bring the glitter, glam and good vibes. Expect vibrant performances and silly contests with fabulous prizes.
ICONIQA
“Iconiqa is the most amazing celebration of queer excellence in Barcelona,” says Coco, Stoke’s Managing Director.
A thrilling mix of burlesque and boylesque, drag queens and kings, fashion and iconic music – Iconiqa is an incredible example of how creative, magnetic, explosive, yet altogether safe queer spaces can be. Dress to impress (don’t worry, your mum’s not watching) or come in sweats! The dress code is a part of the inclusivity of the event, though you will be sure to see jaw-dropping lewks throughout the night as each event showcases a daring theme – most recently “Denim Fantasy” – that has local queer designers crafting looks worthy of magazine spreads. Honestly, it’s a fashion junkie’s wet-dream. The creations are then shown off in the night’s runway contest, right after one of the night’s headliners warms up the stage.
“The entire crowd together creates an extremely safe space where you can be whoever you want to be,” says Coco. “You can be your most authentic self and be celebrated.”
The event runs periodically every few months at Razzmatazz – keep your eye on their socials to find out when the next Iconiqa will be!
BEST QUEER SPACES TO EAT IN BARCELONA
PRISCILLA’S
Colourful, artsy and offering a selection of bites, coffee and cocktails, Priscilla is the drag queen bar of your fantasies. Their extensive menu of drinks, pizza and tapas always slaps. You’ll want to snap a pic of this space as well – it’s pink hues and unique wall art is as fabulous as their service.
D’DIVINE
Fancy a drag show with your meal? Well, the queens are serving at D’divine, with the restaurant offering a “Menu with a show” option every night from 9:30 pm.
BEST QUEER SPACES TO DRINK IN BARCELONA
CANDY DARLING
Named after the American actress and Trans icon, Candy Darling is an electric, freedom focused space right next to Plaça Universitat. Here you will find everything from drag performances to poetry nights, the space boasting a mixture of community, activism and discotheque.
GINGIN
Located in the heart of Barcelona’s gaybourhood, Aixample (or locally known as Gaixample) is this little pocket of cosmopolitan chic. Like Priscilla, GinGin is owned by Believe Group BCN, and can ensure a tasty cocktail to start off your night. The drinks are cheap and the people are smiley – what more could you ask for?