Celebrating Diversity: The Fourth Edition of the Be Free Festival
The Be Free Festival is back for its fourth annual celebration, dedicated to embracing diversity, culture, and the LGTBIQ+ community. Set to take place from June 22 to June 29, 2025, in Puerto del Rosario, Fuerteventura, this exciting event promises a rich tapestry of activities that cater to all interests.
A Collaborative Effort
Co-organized by the Altihay collective, the Culture Department of the Cabildo de Fuerteventura, the Tourism Board, the Town Hall of Puerto del Rosario, and Clapso Producciones, the festival showcases the importance of community spirit and inclusivity. Carla Soto, the president of Altihay, expressed the significance of this year’s celebrations, highlighting that it coincides with 20 years of same-sex marriage in Spain. “Be Free is about celebrating pride beyond the big cities,” she stated, emphasizing how the festival promotes culture and diversity.
Kick-Off with Poetry
The festival will launch on June 22 with a special event: the First LGTBIQ+ Poetry Contest at the Palacio de Formación y Congresos. This gathering not only spotlights the unique literary voices from the community but also sets the tone for a week filled with creative and artistic expression. The inclusion of poetry offers a reflective element, inviting participants and attendees to connect deeply with the themes of love and identity.
Cinematic Exploration
On June 23, the celebration continues with the LGTBIQ+ Film Showcase at the local auditorium. This film series is a platform for highlighting important stories that resonate with the LGTBIQ+ community, providing visibility and fostering understanding through the power of cinema. The showcase aims to celebrate diverse narratives and promote inclusiveness across various genres.
Engaging Workshops and Live Music
The festival’s excitement peaks on June 26, featuring a drag workshop hosted by the talented Grimassira Maeva at the Insular Youth Center. This interactive experience not only empowers participants but also celebrates the vibrant drag culture within the LGTBIQ+ community. Later that evening, at 20:30, the Orgullo-Be Free Concert will take place at the foso of the Palacio de Formación y Congresos. Attendees can expect electrifying performances from notable artists such as Sofía Coll, Jorge González, Kuve, Gara Alemán, and Marta Umpiérrez.
Institutional Recognition and Celebrations
On June 27, the pulse of the community resonates with an official Pride event at noon, which serves to recognize the contributions and rights of LGTBIQ+ individuals. The day will feature a book presentation by Miquel Fernández at 19:00, culminating with the Altihay Awards 2025 at 21:00, honoring those who have made outstanding contributions to the movement. The evening will conclude with the lively Fiesta Fuerte Petarda-Divas In Drags, supported by the Government of the Canary Islands.
Musical and Celebratory Finale
As festivities continue, June 28 brings the exciting musical Los tacones de papá to the stage, followed by the Noche de Orgullo, which will light up the night with DJs and vibrant performances. This combination of arts and entertainment provides a platform for community bonding, celebrating love, and honoring the spirit of pride.
March for Diversity and Memory
The festival wraps up on June 29 with a poignant event—the March for Diversity and Memory at Playa de los Pozos. This march serves as a powerful reminder of the struggles faced by the LGTBIQ+ community, honoring those who have fought for acceptance and rights while advocating for a more inclusive future. It symbolizes unity and resilience, reinforcing the festival’s commitment to celebrating and uplifting diverse voices.
The Be Free Festival promises to be a joyous expression of love, community, and pride, engaging locals and visitors alike in a celebration that empowers and inspires. Whether through poetry, film, music, or impactful marches, this year’s festival embodies the strong spirit of the LGTBIQ+ community in Fuerteventura.
