Gay & Lesbian Zurich

Zurich is undoubtedly Switzerland's gay and lesbian capital and is in general quite gay-friendly. What better proof than the election of openly lesbian Corinne Mauch as mayor in 2009? Zurich's vibrant gay and lesbian scene was one of the driving forces in creating today's club culture. Of course, some of the gay/lesbian venues are cool places to hang out even if you're hetero.

Zurich's gay and lesbian calendar has several major events, all in spring or summer. For over ten years a Christopher Street Day has been held in June. Called Zurich Pride Festival since 2010, this is a full week event with parties, open-air bars and a colourful march through the city (June 8 - 17, 2012, see p. ??). For some this is getting too mainstream, giving rise to the Off-Pride. In spring the Pink Apple film festival shows gay and lesbian films from all over the world and awards a prize to a young director. But the lesbian and gay scene is also very lively, big events aside. Whether you're looking for a gay-friendly bar to relax in, gay and lesbian clubbing or venues of a more raunchy kind, you'll find it in Zurich. At the moment there are only two clubs which are gay day in, day out, so most gay clubbing takes place in other venues. We list some of the best events, but check out the websites or ask in some of the bars too.