Don’t feel like waiting another month for Berlin’s CSD? At Europe’s largest Pride festival, the 2026 Pride season is already kicking off. Here’s the program—and how to get there on a budget!

From June 25 to July 5, 2026, MADO will transform Madrid into Europe’s largest and most colorful open-air Pride festival.

MADO Madrid is the largest and most colorful open-air Pride festival in Europe. — Image: Creative Commons

Moritz Klein

– Editor

· June 25, 2026

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MADO is one of the world’s most significant demonstrations for diversity and human rights. And an incredible party! In 2026, MADO will once again bring the international community to Spain to take over the streets together with the locals.

And what would a celebration of diversity and human rights be without us Berliners? This is the perfect opportunity to soak up a healthy dose of Spanish joie de vivre, sunshine, and love before our own CSD.

Eleven days of nonstop excitement: That’s MADO 2026 in Madrid

MADO in Madrid is one of the world’s most significant demonstrations for diversity and human rights. — Image: Creative Commons

The heart of the festivities beats in the legendary trendy district of Chueca, but the entire city joins in the celebration. During Pride Week, the city’s historic landmarks—such as the Palacio de Cibeles and the Puerta de Alcalá —glow in rainbow colors.

Don’t miss these highlights:

The official kickoff (July 1): The festival kicks off with the traditional opening proclamation (Pregón) in Plaza Pedro Zerolo. The host is none other than Madrid’s nightlife icon, drag queen La Plexy.
The concert hotspots (July 1–5): On four massive main stages (Plaza Pedro Zerolo, Plaza de las Reinas, Puerta del Sol, and Plaza de España), global stars like Tokischa, Mon Laferte, and Kany García, as well as Spanish icon Loles León, await you.
The High-Heels Race (July 2): The iconic Carrera de Tacones celebrates its 27th edition. On Calle Pelayo, participants sprint for the win in heels up to 15 centimeters high.
The Grand Parade (July 4): The absolute highlight. The Manifestación winds its way from Atocha Station along the Paseo del Prado to Plaza de Colón. It’s considered Europe’s largest LGBTQ+ march and combines political activism with a massive parade of spectacular floats.

Insider tips for your trip from Berlin to Madrid

Soak up some Spanish joie de vivre, sunshine, and love at MADO in Madrid. — Image: Creative Commons

A summer trip to Spain doesn’t have to cost a fortune if you book strategically:

Fly on a budget: From Berlin Brandenburg (BER), airlines like Ryanair, easyJet, and Iberia Express offer nonstop flights to Madrid (MAD). Our tip: Fly during the week (Tuesday through Thursday) to avoid the higher weekend prices, and compare your flight options.
Smart Accommodations: Chueca is the epicenter and books up quickly during MADO. Head to the cool neighboring districts of Malasaña, Lavapiés, or La Latina instead. From there, you’ll be right in the thick of the action in no time—whether on foot or by metro.

It’ll make the wait for Berlin’s CSD go by faster. Pack your most dazzling outfits, grab your besties, and celebrate love in Madrid! ¡Nos vemos en Madrid!