Known for its vibrant arts scene, growing high-tech economy, and attractive setting on the River Lee, Cork lies at the southern tip of Ireland and is the nation's second-largest city. As was true throughout Ireland until homosexuality was decriminalized in 1993 and attitudes towards gays and lesbians became more progressive, Cork had a quite discreet GLBT scene until recently. Over the past 15 years, however, the city has become a regional hub of gay life in southwest Ireland, and the Cork Gay Pride Festival and Parade, formerly held in early June, but has moved to late July and early August. The 8th Annual Cork Pride Parade will take place August 4, 2013, with several events leading up to the big day during the preceding week.
Book rooms and compare rates on hotels in Cork during Gay Pride.
Additionally, plenty of gay-popular restaurants, hotels, and shops will be catering heavily to LGBT visitors during this time. Check local gay resources, such as GayCork.com and Gay Project Cork for details about the local scene. For general tourism information, the official Cork online travel guide is very helpful.
