Denver a Finalist to Host Gay Games 2030

Denver is one of three finalists along with Auckland and Perth to host Gay Games XIII in 2030 ahead of a final vote in the fall of 2025 by the Federation of Gay Games.

The Gay Games Denver 2030 Bid Committee, in partnership with Visit Denver, earlier submitted its official bid book to the Federation of Gay Games. Denver’s 100-page bid submission detailed plans for 36 sporting events and a slate of cultural events to take place throughout the region.

The group will build out an expanded bid book with more detailed plans for the 2030 Games, host a site visit of FGG delegates, and continue to build local and national support for the bid ahead of the final presentation and vote.

“Denver is thrilled to be selected as one of three finalists to host the 2030 Gay Games XIII,” said Richard Scharf, president and chief executive officer of Visit Denver. “The Mile High City’s rich culture, world-class dining and attractions, access to nature and commitment to inclusivity illustrate how it would be the perfect destination to attract athletes and spectators from around the world to enjoy the 2030 Games.”

A Denver-hosted Gay Games would bring over 12,000 participants and spectators. The Gay Games have taken place in North America five previous times — San Francisco (1986), Vancouver (1990), New York (1994), Chicago (2006), Cleveland+Akron (2014). The 2026 games are set to take place in Valencia.

“Denver is the only U.S. city to be a finalist to host the Gay Games and I couldn’t be more ready to welcome them,” said Denver Mayor Mike Johnston. “There’s no better place to host the Gay Games than our vibrant and inclusive city.”

The FGG met with bidders at its Annual General Assembly in Washington in October, where bidders attended an information session and interacted with stakeholders and member organizations, including a presentation of Preliminary Bid Books and participation in Q&A sessions.