Pride beyond the pints: redefining year-round LGBTQ+ travel
Pride Month may have officially concluded in the UK, but the spirit of celebration and core values (activism, community building and many more) remain a focus for celebration and education all year round. While the celebrations will culminate in a big boozy party such as this weekend’s London Pride, for many the drinking side to Pride doesn’t align with their personal values. In fact, around a third of people aged 18-24 do not drink alcohol at all!
In response to this cultural shift, holiday company First Choice has teamed up with award-winning TV presenter, journalist, and inclusive travel advocate Aidy Smith to highlight hidden gems around the world where you can celebrate Pride all year round.
As both a drinks expert and a proud member of the LGBTQ+ community, Smith brings a unique perspective to the campaign. Together with the travel brand, they’ve curated a series of trips with specialized itineraries for the growing sober-curious Gen Z and LGBTQ+ community that celebrate Pride year-round through immersive, alcohol-free experiences.
From New York’s iconic queer museums to Berlin’s immersive wellness culture, the itineraries spotlight sober-friendly experiences across New York, Berlin, Amsterdam and Copenhagen – showing that Pride, and everything it stands for, is a movement to be lived and loved 365 days a year.
These ‘must-visit’ Sober Pride itineraries can be explored further on the First Choice website: https://www.firstchoice.co.uk/.
To bring the itineraries to life, First Choice and Aidy have developed a range of city guides which address the increasing demand for meaningful, sober-friendly travel options that celebrate identity and connection beyond traditional alcohol-centric events.
First Choice & Aidy Smith's guides feature:
- Curated sober activities for LGBTQ+ travellers
- First-person insights from Aidy Smith
- Cultural hotspots, inclusive dining, nightlife alternatives and wellbeing recs
- A new look at travel with purpose, identity, and connection