FITUR LGTB+ Establishes Itself as the Largest LGTB+ Exhibition Space at Tourism Fairs Worldwide

FITUR LGTB+ has launched a new edition as a key space for dialogue and collaboration on diversity in tourism. Under the theme "Diversity in Every Destination", the section, organized by FITUR in partnership with JN Global Project, will showcase inclusive national and international destinations during its professional sessions, as well as announcements of innovative events to promote inclusive tourism.

Led by Juan Martín Boll, Director of JN Global Project, the opening ceremony featured participation from Arancha Priede, General Director of Trade Fair and Congress Business; Luis Martín Izquierdo, Deputy Minister of Culture, Tourism, and Sports of the Community of Madrid; Héctor Coronel, Director of Tourism at the Madrid City Council; Miguel Sanz, Director General of Turespaña; and Gemma Juncá Rodríguez, Marketing and Brand Director at Iberia.

Juan Martín Boll highlighted, “FITUR LGTB+ has grown by 30% compared to the previous year, solidifying its position as the largest LGTB+ exhibition space at tourism fairs worldwide.” He added that “Spain leads as the top-rated destination for LGTB+ tourism, with the Community of Madrid ranking second in Europe for LGTB-friendliness, after Berlin.”

Arancha Priede emphasized, “At IFEMA MADRID, we are fully aligned with the values of diversity and inclusion in tourism. FITUR LGTB+ was the first section to develop at IFEMA MADRID, and after 15 editions, its continuous growth demonstrates the embedded nature of these values in the fair.”

Miguel Sanz, Director General of Turespaña, stated, “Spain is the best destination in the world for its freedom, diversity, and inclusion, values reflected in events like FITUR LGTB+, which began 15 years ago at IFEMA MADRID.” He added that in 2023, Spain welcomed 94 million visitors, generating €126 billion in tourism spending, with €2.4 billion invested in sustainability projects, some directed at LGBTQ+ initiatives.

Luis Martínez Izquierdo subrayó que “el turismo en Madrid llega a esta nueva edición de FITUR en plena forma, gracias a la colaboración entre las instituciones y el sector. Esto ha permitido alcanzar logros como un mejor equilibrio de la actividad turística a lo largo del año”. Destacó, además, que el turismo representa el 8,6 % del PIB de la región, lo que equivale a 25.000 millones de euros, consolidando a Madrid como un destino de referencia en el panorama turístico internacional.

Luis Martínez Izquierdo pointed out that “tourism in Madrid enters this new FITUR edition in excellent shape, thanks to collaboration between institutions and the sector. This synergy has enabled achievements such as better year-round tourism activity balance.” He noted that tourism accounts for 8.6% of the region’s GDP, equating to €25 billion, reinforcing Madrid’s position as a global tourism reference.

In addition, during the opening ceremony, awards were presented to destinations that have joined the Spanish Network of Destinations for Diversity (REDD) to highlight their commitment to inclusion and diversity. These certificates were received by different authorities from the cities of Avila, Cullera, Cadiz, Gran Canaria, Seville, Melilla, and the Community of Madrid.

FITUR LGTB+: Committed Destinations and Events for Diversity and Inclusion

Located in Hall 9 of IFEMA MADRID, FITUR LGTB+ kicked off with the announcement of the new edition of the Benidorm Fest, featuring María Izaguirre, Director of Communication and Participation at RTVE, accompanied by members of Nebulossa. The festival will include the participation of 16 artists, standout performances, and events such as the Tapa Benidorm Fest, taking place during the week of January 28 to February 1.

The city of Seville has unveiled its program for Pride 2025, aiming to establish itself as a benchmark for inclusion in Europe, Latin America, and beyond. Key initiatives include “Orgullo de Barrio”, which will bring cultural activities to various districts of the city; “Orgullo de Mercado”, featuring drag artists such as Samantha Valentine and Xenon Spain to highlight diversity in everyday spaces; and “Orgullo Latino”, focused on the Latin American LGTB+ community. Additionally, Sergio Uceda performed the event’s anthem, "Todo está cambiando", and confirmed keynote speakers include Álvaro Mayo, Melody, Sonia and Selena, Vicco, and Las Ketchup.

Torremolinos, with a visionary spirit, has showcased the charms of its pioneering LGTB+ tourism destination, which is celebrating a decade of promoting diversity. Among its highlighted initiatives are the renowned Torremolinos Pride and the Drag Gala, along with other new events such as Winter Fest and Bear Fest. The city has also received the LGTB+ 2025 Award, recognizing its trajectory and leadership in the sector, which was collected by its mayor, Margarita del Cid. David Gómez, executive director of the Gay Games Valencia 2026, presented the most important updates and expectations for this LGBTQ+ sporting and cultural event, which is estimated to have an economic impact of 120 million euros. "Valencia becomes the first Spanish city to host the Gay Games Valencia 2026 from June 27 to July 4, featuring 37 competition disciplines and 2 exhibition sports, as well as cultural activities."

The section also highlighted the unveiling of the Cullera Beach Pride 2025, under the theme "We Love You All", set to take place on June 13 and 14. This event reaffirms Cullera’s LGTB+ commitment as part of the Spanish Network of Destinations for Diversity (REDD). The presentation, led by artist Xenon Spain, featured appearances by Débora Mari, Councilor for Tourism; Álex Morales, Councilor for Diversity; and Jordi Mayor, the city’s mayor, who emphasized, “Cullera is a vibrant city committed to inclusion, celebrating diversity every day of the year.”

The program will continue throughout the professional sessions, showcasing opportunities offered by other cities such as Benidorm, Gandía Pride 2025, and Costa Blanca. Upcoming renowned events include MADO (Madrid Orgullo), Mr. Gay España 2025, Fulanita Fest, and the Mad Bear Beach Festival Torremolinos 2025, among others discussed during this section.

The general public will also have the chance to enjoy various activities over the weekend, including live music and performances, with the full schedule available through this link.