International Bears Week in Sitges is one of those events that only makes sense once you’ve been there. Tucked along the Costa Daurada about 35 kilometres south of Barcelona, Sitges is a lively resort town famous for its beaches, nightlife and welcoming lgbtq+Q+ vibe. For more than two decades it has also hosted a summer gathering for the bear community that transforms the town into a sea of body hair, smiles and good humour. In 2025 the festival runs from 5‑14 September. Those ten days see thousands of guys descend on the seaside promenade and the narrow lanes of the old town to mingle in the Bear Village, party until the early hours, and soak up the last of the Mediterranean sun before autumn. Unlike some pride events that centre on a single march, International Bears Week is a marathon of day and night activities. The hub is Bear Village in Plaça de la Fragata near Passeig Marítim. From late afternoon the square fills with bars and food stalls, DJs spin house and pop classics, and a lively crowd chats, laughs and flirts under the glow of fairy lights. During the day many visitors head to the dedicated Bear Beach just beyond the town centre or to one of the organised pool parties. Some nights have themes—leather, sportswear or even a toga party—but many people come as they are and enjoy the relaxed atmosphere. The informal karaoke sessions, known as “Bearoke”, are a popular icebreaker for newcomers. A highlight for many is the Mr Bear Sitges contest. Held in the Bear Village mid‑week, the competition sees contestants parade and answer questions from the host while the crowd cheers them on. The winners go on to represent Sitges in international bear competitions. There are also beach volleyball tournaments, art exhibitions, and the Bear Market, where artisans sell clothing, accessories and artwork with a distinctly ursine twist. Most evenings finish with club nights at venues such as Organic, Privilege and Parrots, where resident and guest DJs keep the dance floor packed until sunrise. Locals embrace the influx of visitors, and the restaurants and cafes around Carrer Major often create special menus to cater for bear week. If you are planning to attend in 2025, book your accommodation early. Hotels and apartments around Sitges fill up months in advance, and prices rise as the festival approaches. A popular option is to rent a flat for the week and share it with friends; many owners rent directly to visitors during this period. Getting to Sitges is easy, with trains from Barcelona taking around 40 minutes, and the town itself is small enough to navigate on foot. Take some time to explore the nearby Garraf Natural Park or spend an afternoon in Barcelona before returning to the festivities. Whether you are a seasoned bear or simply an admirer, International Bears Week promises a laid‑back, friendly party under the Catalonian sun that will leave you planning your next visit before you have even left. Official website: https://www.bearsitgesclub.org

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