Friday, July 4, 2025

Pride Month itself may only technically end in June, but the spirit of inclusivity, of activism and of building community that is the hallmark of the LGBTQ+ movement is one which can and should be observed year-round. For many, Pride is no longer simply a month of parades and parties—it has become instead a larger and ongoing celebration of identity and of equality and of love. There are, however, some who find the classical Pride celebrations of alcohol do not align with their individual values. In the most recent reports, almost one-third of individuals between the ages of 18 and 24 are now of the sober lifestyle, and this is having an effect on the way the LGBTQ+ community observes Pride in NYC, Berlin, Amsterdam, and Copenhagen.

Recognizing the shift in how Pride is celebrated, First Choice has teamed up with Aidy Smith, an award-winning TV presenter, journalist, and passionate inclusive travel advocate, to create a new series of travel itineraries specifically designed for the sober-curious LGBTQ+ community. This collaboration aims to showcase how Pride can be celebrated beyond the confines of alcohol-fueled parties, highlighting inclusive, alcohol-free experiences in major cities like New York, Berlin, Amsterdam, and Copenhagen. These destinations, known for their rich LGBTQ+ history and vibrant cultural scenes, now offer sober-friendly alternatives that allow travelers to engage with Pride all year round.

The idea of sober travel is gaining traction, especially among the younger generations who are more inclined to embrace a balanced lifestyle that includes wellness, mindfulness, and purpose-driven experiences. With a growing number of people in the LGBTQ+ community seeking alternatives to traditional alcohol-centric events, travel companies like First Choice are beginning to cater to these evolving needs.

Aidy Smith, who has long advocated for inclusive travel, emphasizes the importance of offering options that go beyond partying. He explains that many LGBTQ+ travelers are now looking for trips that offer meaningful connections, cultural enrichment, and a sense of belonging without the pressure to drink alcohol. Smith’s personal experience as both a member of the LGBTQ+ community and an advocate for inclusive tourism positions him uniquely to curate these sober Pride itineraries.

First Choice and Aidy Smith’s collaboration has resulted in a comprehensive set of travel guides that outline sober Pride experiences across four iconic LGBTQ+ destinations: New York, Berlin, Amsterdam, and Copenhagen. These destinations were chosen for their historic significance in the LGBTQ+ movement and their current reputation as inclusive cities with a range of non-alcoholic, culture-rich activities.

The guides focus on more than just traditional tourist attractions. They explore a variety of sober-friendly experiences, including:

Aidy Smith’s personal insights are woven throughout the guides, offering first-hand recommendations for sober-friendly activities that go beyond the traditional Pride celebrations. His involvement ensures that the itineraries not only provide a safe space for LGBTQ+ travelers but also foster deeper connections with the destinations themselves.

The increasing demand for sober Pride celebrations is reflective of a broader societal shift towards more mindful, inclusive experiences. As more people—especially Gen Z—embrace alcohol-free lifestyles, they are seeking travel experiences that reflect their values and support their well-being. Pride, in its traditional form, has been synonymous with parades, parties, and alcohol, but the growing focus on inclusivity and personal well-being has led to the rise of sober alternatives.

This shift is particularly significant within the LGBTQ+ community, where the legacy of Pride is rooted in activism and the fight for equality. For many, Pride should be a space to celebrate personal identity and connection, and this new approach allows travelers to do just that without the emphasis on alcohol. By offering sober-friendly options, cities like New York, Berlin, Amsterdam, and Copenhagen are positioning themselves as destinations where Pride is not just a once-a-year event, but a year-round celebration of diversity and inclusion.

As the demand for sober travel experiences continues to rise, it’s clear that LGBTQ+ tourism is undergoing a transformation. This shift is not only about alcohol-free experiences but also about redefining what it means to celebrate identity and connection. The new sober Pride itineraries developed by First Choice and Aidy Smith represent just the beginning of a growing trend towards meaningful, inclusive travel options that cater to a diverse range of travelers.

Travelers seeking to explore the world without the pressure to participate in alcohol-centered events can now turn to these guides for inspiration. Whether it’s exploring a queer museum in New York or enjoying a wellness retreat in Berlin, these sober Pride experiences offer a fresh perspective on how we can celebrate Pride all year round—without the pints.

The collaboration between First Choice and Aidy Smith is an exciting step towards redefining how the LGBTQ+ community experiences Pride and travel. As more people embrace sober living and seek inclusive travel options, the tourism industry is responding with new, meaningful itineraries that align with these evolving values. From New York to Berlin, Amsterdam, and Copenhagen, Pride is no longer just a one-month event—it’s a year-round celebration of identity, culture, and community.

With more destinations and travel brands rising to the challenge of sober-friendly options, the future of LGBTQ+ travel is brighter, more diverse, and more inclusive for all of us. Are you sober-curious or looking for another way to celebrate Pride? These new journeys present the perfect time to connect with like-souled travelers as you discover cosmopolitan cities that have long been at the forefront of LGBTQ+ culture and action.

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