Israel is one of the most developed countries in the Middle East in terms of LGBTQ+ rights and liberation. Often referred to as the gay capital of the Middle East, same-sex couples in Israel aren't incarcerated of sexual activity, are able to serve in the military, can live together and aren't being discriminated against on the grounds of sexual orientation.

In 1979, a small group gathered in Rabin Square to protest for LGBTQ+ rights which many consider the city’s first Pride event. Almost 20 years later, Tel Aviv hosted its first official Pride parade as we know it…and the rest is history!

Events in tel aviv 

June 9-12: LGBTQ Film Festival – Eight of the biggest films of the year will be screened for the first time in Israel. Also, Abraham Hostel is hosting a party on their rooftop.

June 11: Dragovision – The LGBTQ Centre is presenting a special tribute show to Eurovision songs over the years.

June 17-26: Beach Parties at Hilton Beach – The gay beach will open on June 17, with 9 days of non-stop parties on the Hilton Beach in Tel Aviv.

June 19: Pride Family Picnic – For the 9th Year, Meir Garden will host a family picnic event for all the different families around the country.

June 22: Wigstock – The drag festival “Wigstock” at Meir Garden includes Ziona Patriot, Rama Rimming and Kay Long, some of Israel’s best drag artists.

June 24th: Let’s get physical – Gordon Pool is hosting a huge fitness event in light of Pride Month, including Sunset Yoga, Volleyball and Spinning!

Shpagat is one of the most popular bars in Tel Aviv and we'd definitely recommend this as a starter to your night out. Its name translates to 'splits' in Hebrew, so if you're feeling flexible get yourself down there for a drink or twelve.

Another bar worth paying a visit is Otto. Located on Rothschild Avenue, Otto hosts lesbian nights on Monday which we're sure will get your juices flowing. Amazona is Tel Aviv's premium lesbian bar so girls, we hope you're ready to shake your shekels!

For a boogie in Tel Aviv, head to Dungeon Club. A playground for fetish lovers, it has a play zone, cages, a maze, 2 bars and a dancefloor. Saturday is gay night at Dungeon Club which accepts all genders and identities. If you want a 'gay-only' night, make your way to BEEF... but don't forget to pack your leathers if chains and whips excite you!

The list of nightclubs goes on and the circuit tends to move from club to club. Make sure you check All Stars Facebook page for weekly lesbian and gay events across the city.

Tel Aviv is basically foodie heaven.

Littered in cafes and coffee shops, it's no wonder Starbucks never made it to the city. If you like meat in pita or other street food, we'd definitely recommend the cheap and cheerful Miznon. Here you can also help yourself to all the tahini, pitot and labneh you can eat which is right up our street.

For more upmarket options, be sure to try Zepra which offers Asian infused cuisine in a real modern and contemporary surrounding. Serving 24-hour breakfast and brunch from around the world, Benedict Benedict should also be on the gaydar if you're in Tel Aviv!

Its time to tan! Tel Aviv has an abundance of beaches to choose from depending on what your heart desires. Hilton Beach is definitely the most popular beach. If you're planning a visit, we'd suggest timing it with Pride week for the best atmosphere, crowd and international DJ's.

If gym bunny watching is more your thing, head over to Gordon Beach which has gyms, pools and volley courts. There's always something swinging about if you get our drift! For ultimate relaxation and views for days, then Charles Clore Beach is probably the way to go.

If you fancy dropping your drawers then head to Ga'ash. Well, we'd probably suggest waiting to drop them until you arrive, unless you're hoping to get picked up by a police officer of course! It's a dream we've all had. This beach is a far cry from the land of 3 wise men but you will certainly see at least 3 naked men or women. It's pretty off the beaten track so speak to a member of the chilli crew and we will help direct you.

nobody likes rain, right?