Dénia's Pride celebration unites LGTBIQ+ and mental health advocacy under one vibrant roof

Hundreds of people filled Dénia’s Plaza del Consell to celebrate Pride this weekend. The square was alive with rainbow flags, music, and a strong message of inclusion. The event highlighted the town’s growing reputation for welcoming community gatherings. The initiative was organised by Dénia Town Hall’s Equality and Diversity department alongside local mental health charity AMADEM. Their campaign, under the slogan Locura de orgullo, orgullo de locura (Madly Proud, Proudly Mad), linked the fight for LGTBIQ+ rights with mental health awareness. The evening began with music celebrating queer culture and closed with the reading of the official Pride manifesto.

Drag artist Liz Dust hosted the celebrations, while comedian Cabrafotuda used satire to challenge prejudice through humour. The event also promoted acceptance of people regardless of their identity or mental health experiences. It formed part of a wider June programme, featuring an exhibition marking 20 years of same-sex marriage in Spain and a talk on the harm caused by rejection. Organisers hoped the discussions started during the event would last long after the flags were put away. The gathering aimed to break down stereotypes and foster understanding between the LGTBIQ+ and mental health communities. Both groups continue to face prejudice and discrimination in daily life.