Details about the Gay Games IX 2014 in Cleveland will be posted here as they become available - in the meantime, here's a look at the most recent event, held in Cologne:
Cologne, Germany is the host of Gay Games VIII. This exciting gathering, which is expected to draw more than 12,000 participants from some 70 nations as well as 100,000 spectators, will truly showcase all that Cologne has to offer. The very first Gay Games took place in San Francisco in 1982, and they've been held every four years since then, with past hosting cities that include Vancouver, New York City, Amsterdam, Sydney, and Chicago. In 2014, the Games return to the United States, this time taking place in Cleveland. The Cologne games will feature 34 different sporting events, including badminton, beach volleyball, bodybuilding, cycling, diving, golf, ice hockey, martial arts, sailing, sport climbing, swimming, tennis, triathlon, and many others.
There will also be several different cultural events, including band and choral concerts, a rainbow run, and a cheerleading exhibition. Many hotels in Cologne are offering great deals during this time - check the official Cologne Gay Games website's accommodations page for details.
More on Cleveland's Gay Scene:
Keep in mind that each year in June, the city hosts the well-attended Cleveland Gay Pride - the dates are typically the last weekend of June
Additionally, numerous gay bars as well as gay-popular restaurants, hotels, and shops have special events and parties planned during the Gay Games. Check local gay papers, such as Gay People's Chronicle for details. For visitor information on Cleveland, check out the excellent GLBT travel site created by the Cleveland Convention & Visitors Bureau.
