Conquering EuroPride Thessaloniki, Greece 2024: My Top 5 Highlights
EuroPride 2024 in Thessaloniki was an explosion of vibrant energy, exceeding all expectations! A sea of attendees from across Greece and Europe converged on the city, united in a joyous celebration of acceptance, progress, and LGBTQ+ pride. The electric atmosphere crackled with excitement as Thessaloniki embraced its role as host, making this a truly unforgettable experience.
Just a week before the event, a friend casually mentioned a local LGBTQ+ travel expert named Thenia. Reaching out to her turned out to be a golden ticket! Thenia became our guide and confidante, ensuring we had an insider's perspective and a truly immersive EuroPride experience. (Read more in next chapter)
Dazzling in the Parade
The vibrant EuroPride parade was the undisputed highlight of the event.
An estimated 27,000 attendees marched the streets, creating a sea of rainbow colors and infectious enthusiasm. Beforehand, we gathered at the fair in Alexander the Great Park, soaking up the festive atmosphere and connecting with the local LGBTQ+ community. A sea of people adorned in rainbow colors lined the streets as the parade kicked off from the YMCA Park, snaking its way down Tsimiski Street and Venizelou Street before culminating at the waterfront Statue of Alexander the Great.
Thanks to Thenia's connections, we scored an incredible opportunity to ride on the float representing Thessaloniki's renowned Expose Club, a Thessaloniki institution, Expose Club is a vibrant LGBTQ+ nightclub that pulsates with energy. Renowned for its electrifying dance parties, themed events, and dazzling drag shows, Expose Club is a cornerstone of the city's gay scene.
Learn more about Thessaloniki's LGBTQ+ bars and clubs on our Thessaloniki Pride page!
The club's float embodied the spirit of EuroPride, a kaleidoscope of color and movement that celebrated Thessaloniki's thriving LGBTQ+ community and its unwavering commitment to inclusivity.
As the DJ spun a mix of international hits from Rihanna and Lady Gaga alongside beloved Greek favorites, the energy on the float was contagious, further amplifying the electric atmosphere of the parade. Thousands of cheering faces lined the streets, their enthusiasm feeding off the energy on the float. As the sun began to set, the parade moved along the seafront, offering breathtaking views of the White Tower. This unforgettable experience truly captured the essence of EuroPride's message of unity and celebration.
Unforgettable EuroPride Concerts
Thessaloniki pulsated with live music throughout the EuroPride week.
Friday Main Concert
Thessaloniki pulsated with live music throughout the EuroPride week. The concert on Friday, June 28th, at the Alexander the Great statue set the tone for a weekend of electrifying performances.
The night offered a scintillating lineup of Greece's biggest music stars, including Evangelia, Kalomoira, Katerina Stikoudi, and LILA. But that's not all – dazzling drag shows featuring Mystic Van Rouge, Katina Bella, Helena Hudson, Lala Kolopi, Violetta J' Adore, and the one and only Alexis St. Pete from RuPaul's Drag Race kept the crowd entertained. Guests were treated to a special performance by Bimboy and The House Drama. The talented Fatality, Raw Bee Candles, and the iconic Gigi Gorgeous hosted the unforgettable evening.
A poignant moment occurred when the organizers paid tribute to Diona Dallas, a beloved local trans woman who had sadly passed away earlier that day. (image source: https://www.typosthes.gr/)
Saturday Main Concert
The main concert after the parade was a fitting finale to an incredible day.
On Saturday night, right after the parade, the energy at the Alexander the Great statue remained electric for the main concert. The lineup featured a dazzling array of international and Greek music stars, ensuring an unforgettable night of music, dance, and entertainment.
Eurovision fans were thrilled to see Nebulossa and Silia Kapsis grace the stage. The UK's Aaron Sibley, beloved for his fluent Greek singing, captivated the audience. The Mode brought the house down with their powerful act, while Fatality and Holly Grace delivered a thrilling drag show. The night wouldn't have been complete without a performance by RuPaul's Drag Race royalty: Danny Beard and Krystal Versace! To keep the party going all night long, The House of Drama served as the ultimate dance floor DJs. The fabulous drag queens Fatality and Raw Bee Candles kept the energy high as the hosts for the evening. It was a night that truly embodied the spirit of EuroPride – a celebration of love, diversity, and the power of music to unite us all.
A particularly moving highlight was the symbolic handover ceremony, where Thessaloniki passed the EuroPride torch to Lisbon for 2025 with the theme being "Proudly Yourselves," promising another celebration of personal dignity and LGBTQ+ pride.
Thessaloniki Nightlife
Thessaloniki's vibrant nightlife scene came alive during EuroPride, offering a kaleidoscope of parties for every taste.
EuroPride Party at BAUS bar club
Our first night kicked off with the official EuroPride Party at BAUS, a beloved local LGBTQ+ bar. This intimate venue transformed into a pulsating hub of energy, welcoming attendees from across the globe.
Inspired by Athens very popular party series Barbie Psychanella, BAUS created a night not to be missed. Mugiwara the Led-Masked non binary DJ and Synaesthema, served colorful fashion style in addition to blasting dance energy alongside with their playful Pop, R'n'b and Electro groovy beats. Tammy Tsanaka was ready to impress with her awesome queer show.
The DJ kept the crowd moving all night long with a fantastic mix of dance beats, creating a friendly and welcoming atmosphere that spilled onto the streets well into the early morning hours.
Learn more about Thessaloniki's LGBTQ+ bars and clubs on our Thessaloniki Pride page!
SYMPOSIUM presents XLSIOR MYKONOS “AI” at Barbarella Club
On Saturday night, after the electrifying energy of the parade and the main concert, we ventured to Barbarella for an after-party experience unlike any other. With its chic and stylish setting, Barbarella is a Thessaloniki hotspot, attracting a fashionable and diverse crowd. The night's theme promised a sophisticated atmosphere with a touch of Mykonos flair, and it did not disappoint!
This event, suggested by EuroPride Thessaloniki 2024, brought the world-famous XLSIOR MYKONOS party to Barbarella for a night of unforgettable fun. XLSIOR's superstar DJ Thomas Solvert headlined the night, spinning a pulsating mix of Circuit vibes alongside resident DJs Dommy Dean (Frankfurt) and Elias Voulgaropoulos (Thessaloniki). The high-tech AI graphics designed by XLSIOR lit up the club's wide screens, creating a futuristic and immersive atmosphere. Popular guest dancers kept the energy high on the dance floor, ensuring a night of nonstop revelry. The crowd was vibrant and diverse, creating a sense of camaraderie and shared revelry.
The Greek vibe, with its Mykonos influence, truly added a unique flavor to the party. Think handsome Greek men dancing in barely-there swimwear! The energy was infectious, and we danced until the early hours, completely immersed in the celebratory spirit of EuroPride.
Welcoming Atmosphere Throughout the Weekend
One of the most heartwarming aspects of EuroPride Thessaloniki was the incredible sense of community.
People from all across Greece and Europe converged on the city, united by a common thread of pride and celebration. Throughout the weekend, we had the opportunity to connect with a diverse group of individuals, each with their own unique story to share.
People from all across Greece and Europe converged on the city, united by a common thread of pride and celebration. Throughout the weekend, we had the opportunity to connect with a diverse group of individuals, each with their own unique story to share.
It was inspiring to hear their perspectives on what Pride means to them – words like love, freedom, visibility, color, equality, and openness resonated deeply. This sense of community reaffirmed the importance of EuroPride as a platform for inclusivity and acceptance.
And here's where Thenia truly deserves another shoutout! Throughout the entire weekend, she served as more than just our guide; she became a friend. Her warmth and genuine passion for the LGBTQ+ community were contagious. She introduced us to her friends, instantly making us feel welcome and part of her group. Their open arms and welcoming smiles added another layer of joy to our EuroPride experience.
Relaxation by the Aegean
After a whirlwind weekend of celebrating, parades, and late-night parties, Sunday was dedicated to well-deserved relaxation.
Thanks to Thenia's insider knowledge, we embarked on a refreshing journey south of Thessaloniki to the luxurious Sahara Beach Resort. Located approximately an hour's drive away, this beachfront oasis offered the perfect escape to unwind and soak up the Aegean sun.
Upon arrival at Sahara Beach Resort, we were immediately captivated by the stunning beachfront setting. The resort boasts a vibrant beach bar, offering breathtaking views of the crystal-clear Aegean Sea. While access to the exclusive VIP lounges required a €30 minimum order, it was a small price to pay for the luxurious comfort and unparalleled service. The beach bar pulsed with a relaxed energy, featuring a DJ spinning a delightful selection of chilled beats that perfectly complemented the idyllic setting. The attentive staff ensured our every need was met, making it a truly rejuvenating experience.
Taking a dip in the warm Aegean Sea was a blissful way to wash away the remnants of the weekend's festivities. Gazing across the water, we were awestruck by the majestic Mount Olympus dominating the horizon. Realizing we were basking in the very cradle of Greek mythology added a touch of awe to our experience.
To cap off the perfect day, we indulged in a delectable meal at the resort's restaurant. Thessaloniki is renowned for its culinary scene, and the restaurant's offering did not disappoint. Fresh, locally sourced seafood dishes were a particular highlight, alongside expertly prepared meats and vegetarian options.
