It’s almost that time of the year again – Halloween! And everyone knows there’s no Halloween like a gay Halloween. A much-loved celebration amongst the LGBTQ+ community, Halloween has been nicknamed as ‘the Great Gay Holiday’ by some. Some have even gone as far as claiming that Halloween is the gay Christmas.
From queer parades to gay Halloween parties, the holiday is well-known for plenty of celebrations. It’s also an excuse to book in your next trip abroad because the US hosts some of the best annual Halloween parties.
Here are the best cities to celebrate gay Halloween in, and naturally, the best places to stay for LGBTQ+ travellers.
(1) New York City
Why visit: Every year, NYC throws a massive Halloween Parade in the Village, attracting up to 60,000 people in Halloween costumes, as well as puppets, floats and bands. But the fun doesn’t stop there. The city boasts a large amount of Halloween parties, with many already being held before the last day of October. From Halloween-themed gay bars to a decorated Times Square and dance parties above the NYC skyline, gay Halloween in NYC is an experience you won’t want to miss!
Stay here: HGU New York for classic boutique comfort, or Public New York for unashamed luxury.
(2) Washington DC
Why visit: There’s no better place to celebrate All Hallows Eve this year than in the country’s capital. DC is known for hosting costume contests with some serious cash prize money: last year, certain bars and clubs rewarded their best-dressed guests with up to $1000. For inspiration, have a look at some of the best LGBTQ+ Halloween events from 2018.
Stay here: Liaison Capitol Hill for a statement-making, modern experience, or The Beacon Hotel & Corporate Quarters to book an aparthotel for longer stays.
(3) New Orleans
Why visit: New Orleans is famous for hosting The Lazarus Ball on Halloween as part of a series of fundraising events to support the Lazarus Project, a home for men and women living with AIDS. Guests are expected to dress up to the flamboyant ball in their best cocktail attire, and live entertainment is provided so you can dance under the stars. So far, the Halloween event in New Orleans has raised over $4.6 million for the cause.
Stay here: Royal Sonesta New Orleans to experience the historic French Quarter, or The Old No. 77 Hotel & Chandlery to unwind in a boutique hotel with vintage charm.
(4) Los Angeles
Why visit: WEHO Carnival, held in California’s sunny Los Angeles, is one of the biggest annual Halloween events in the US. Located in West Hollywood, it’s even known as one of the most unique Halloween gatherings in the world, boasting phenomenal costumes, entertainment, culture, dj sets and performers. There’s also Fred & Jason’s Halloweenie, known as the hottest gay Halloween bash in the US. The money raised from the event goes to support the Gay Mens Chorus of LA.
Stay here: Custom Hotel for a budget chic stay, or The Standard DTLA for a designer hotel with a rooftop pool you won’t forget.
(5) Chicago
Why visit: Halloween in Chicago is really just a month-long series of events, topped off by the Haunted Halstead Halloween Parade on October 31st every year. Not only has the event been running for 23 years, but the cash prize for the costume contest is also $4,000. What are you waiting for? Book your tickets to Chicago today.
Stay here: The Roby Chicago for a designer boutique hotel, or Hyatt Regency Chicago for luxurious pampering.
Discover gay Halloween with World Rainbow Hotels
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