Prague is easily the gayest city in the Czech Republic. The queer community does not only exist here, it is vibrant and visible too. There are many queer organizations, events and places.

Although Czechs aren’t overly accepting nation, many of them support LGBTQ+ community. Especially the younger generation has no problem with queer people. You can be without hesitation openly queer/gay in Prague, as there has never been a problem with public discrimination or violence. Among post-communist countries Czech Republic is the most accepting one. However, you can still get some weird looks.
Homosexual acts have been decriminalised in 1962, followed by anti-discrimination law in 1999. In 2009, a comprehensive anti-discrimination law was passed which prohibits discrimination based on sexual orientation and gender identity in employment, education, housing and access to goods and services. Homosexual prostitution was decriminalised in 1990.

On the other hand, there is still some work to be done when it comes to LGBTQ+ rights. The todays topic number one is equal marriage. (Civil partnership is legal in the Czech Republic since 2006). The leader of the effort to legalize marriage for same-sex couples is the Jsme fér initiative, coalition of 6 Czech non-profit organizations (Prague Pride, PROUD, Logos ČR, Mezipatra Queer Film festival, Amnesty International and Queer Geography). Two contradicting bill proposals are currently being discussed by Czech politicians – one opening marriage for same sex couples, the other limiting marriage as an exclusive union of a man and a woman.

No matter the time of the year, there is still something gay happening in Prague. Whether you like culture, sport or just partying, you will have a blast! In the fall the Mezipatra queer film festival with many international guests takes a place. At the end of Winter, it’s time for the Queer Ball, glamorous social event.
If you decide to visit Prague in spring, there are two sporting events waiting for you: Prague Rainbow Spring at the very beginning of May followed by the charity run Fun&Run which takes a place around May 17 (the International Day Against Homophobia, Biphobia and Transphobia). Another spring event is the Queer Eye festival for lesbians.

The Prague’s queer year reaches its peak in summer. In June there is Pride Business Forum conference concerned with the equality in the workplace. And of course, the pinnacle of it all, Prague Pride Festival in August, one-week festival hosting tens of smaller events and climaxing with rainbow Pride Parade!
The city has several gay bars, clubs and other queer oriented or friendly venues. Most of them are situated around the Vinohrady quarter. Some of the favourite ones among the locals are Q Café, Cafe Cafe, Patra or Friends.

Despite its communist past, the Czech Republic is the 18th most gay-friendly country in the world. This may be partially given by the significant lack of religion. There are orthodox believers too, but they are minority. It is safe for you to stay in any of Prague’s hotels and pensions (even as a same-sex family with children).
Speaking of safety, HIV is unfortunately still not a thing of the past. Please, be aware of that and take precautions, so you can remember Prague only in happy way.

Text comes courtesy of the fine folks at www.praguepride.cz, who you should visit for more info.