Denver’s Bid to Host the Gay Games in 2030
Denver has been named as one of the 10 finalist cities for the 2030 Gay Games. This status highlights Denver’s capability to host large-scale international events as a welcoming community. IF the Games are held in Denver, it would mean a sweeping economic win for the greater Denver area and a powerful social win for the LGBTIQ+ community. More over, It would simply be a ton of fun!
Brief History of the Gay Games
Founded in 1982, the Gay Games promotes inclusion, breaking down barriers through sport and culture. The event has grown significantly over the years, attracting thousands of participants worldwide. The Gay Games are held every four years and feature various sports and cultural events, making it the largest LGBTQ+ sporting event globally.
Denver’s Unique Position to Win the 2030 Bid
As the sole U.S. contender for the 2030 Gay Games, Denver stands out for its unique LGBTQ+ community, progressive values, and world-class amenities. The city’s bid is supported by a coalition of local leaders, businesses, and community organizations, all dedicated to showcasing Denver as a welcoming and dynamic host city. Denver’s position as a finalist underscores its potential to create a memorable and impactful Gay Games experience.
Significance for Denver
The potential hosting of the 2030 Gay Games isn’t just another feather in Denver’s cap; it’s a kaleidoscopic opportunity that could reshape the city’s cultural and economic landscape. Picture this: a vibrant tapestry of athletes and artists from across the globe, their energy pulsing through the Mile High City’s streets. It’s not merely an event; it’s a seismic shift waiting to happen.
Imagine over 12,000 participants descending upon Denver from around the world looking to experience queer Colorado culture—estimates of over $110 million boost to the local economy. From swanky downtown hotels to quirky coffee shops tucked away in RiNo, the economic impact will be staggering.
This isn’t just about immediate gains. Hosting the Gay Games could catapult Denver onto the world stage, showcasing our world-class facilities and unique offerings. We’re talking long-term tourism boost, folks. People might come for the Games, but they’ll stay for the breathtaking views, great neighborhoods, and that inexplicable Denver charm.
Social Revolution
Now, let’s dig deeper. The Gay Games in Denver? It’s like injecting a rainbow-hued shot of adrenaline straight into the city’s cultural heart. We’re not just talking about tolerance; we’re talking about a week-long celebration! This event could turbocharge Denver’s journey toward becoming a worldwide beacon of inclusivity and diversity.
Think about it: thousands of LGBTQ+ athletes and artists, their allies, and curious onlookers all mingling in our city. It’s a melting pot of ideas, experiences, and perspectives that could spark conversations and connections long after the closing ceremony. We’re not just hosting an event; we’re fostering understanding, breaking down barriers, and maybe, just maybe, changing a few minds along the way.
And let’s not forget our own LGBTQ+ community. This could be our moment to shine brighter than a supernova. It’s a chance to say, “This is who we are, this is what we can do, and this is our home.” The ripple effects? They could be transformative, empowering, and downright revolutionary. In essence, the 2030 Gay Games isn’t just an event Denver could host; it’s an opportunity we can’t afford to miss. It’s a chance to boost our economy, sure, but more than that, it’s a golden ticket to a more vibrant, inclusive, and dynamic future. So, Denver, are we ready to go for gold?
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Bid Process and Deadlines: The Ride to 2030
Denver’s journey to potentially hosting the 2030 Gay Games is more twisted than a mountain road! We’re not just throwing our hat in the ring; we’re hurling it with the force of a bronco. But let’s break down this wild ride, shall we?
Our Progress So Far
Denver’s Gay Games 2030 bid has made it through the top 25 cities to the top 10. We are currently the only U.S. city in the running. The success of each step to host the Games in 2030 is dependent on community support and impressing the Federation of Gay Games (FGG).
The “Bid Book” Bonanza: August 2024
We’ve got to compile our bid proposal – a tome so comprehensive it’d make War and Peace look like a pamphlet. We’re talking logistics, venues, cultural events, you name it. It’s our city’s love letter to the Gay Games…and every word counts!
Showtime in D.C.: October 2024
After submitting the Bid Book, the core Denver Committees will travel to Washington D.C. to defend our bid to the Federation of Gay Games Annual General Assembly. There, the team will highlight all that Denver has to offer in front of the international site selection voting delegation.
The Nail-Biting Finale: December 2024 – November 2025
The members of the FGG will vote and announce the top three cities in December of 2024. The winning city will accept the Gay Games torch in Valencia, Spain, November 2025. It’s like the Olympics of bid selections, and Denver’s going for gold.
How to Support Denver’s Gay Games Bid
Alright, listen up, you fabulous humans! You’ve heard the spiel, you’ve felt the excitement bubbling up like a shaken bottle of Coke, and now you’re probably thinking, “Hot damn! How can I get in on this glitter-coated action?” Well, hold onto your rainbow socks, because we’re about to dive into the nitty-gritty of supporting Denver’s Gay Games bid!
Digital Domination
First things first, let’s talk about the easiest way to show your support: get your fingers tapping and your mouse clicking!
- Sign a letter of support: it’s free and takes only a few minutes. The more signatures and letters we can get the more we can prove to the powers that the Gay Games are wanted here!
- Follow, like, share, and engage with the bid on social media. We’re talking Facebook, Instagram, Twitter, TikTok – heck, dust off your old MySpace if you have to! Use hashtags like #DenverGayGames2030 and #MileHighPride until your fingers cramp.
- Start an online petition. Get creative! “1 Million Signatures or We All Move to Canada” has a nice ring to it, don’t you think?
Spread the Word:
Now, let’s take this offline and into the real world, shall we?
- Talk about the bid like it’s the latest season of RuPaul’s Drag Race. At work, at the gym, in line at Starbucks – anywhere and everywhere!
- Invite people to sign letters of support
- Tell your ally-friends too. The Gay Games are all about Participation, Inclusion, and Personal BestTM
Get Physical, Get Involved
Remember, this is about sports too! So let’s get moving:
- Join any of Denver’s hundreds of sports organizations.
- Start training now. By 2030, you could be the next queer sports legend!
- Volunteer! The bid committee needs help on all fronts!
Donations
We are expected to bring over $110 million to the Denver Metro area, so your donation of any amount goes a long way to bringing that home.
- Donate to the official bid fund. Every dollar counts, whatever you can give we appreciate it!
- Personal, group or corporate donations are welcome.
Remember, supporting Denver’s Gay Games bid isn’t just about 2030, it’s about creating a legacy of inclusivity, diversity, and fabulousness that’ll last for generations. So get out there, wave those rainbow flags, and let’s show the world that when it comes to hosting the Gay Games, Denver isn’t just high in altitude – we’re high in attitude, aptitude, and pure, unadulterated awesomeness!
Denver’s Proposed Offerings: A Mile-High Extravaganza
Denver’s proposed offerings for the 2030 Gay Games include a diverse array of sports and cultural events, showcasing the city’s unique attributes and inclusive spirit. The sports program features 36 events, ranging from traditional sports like track and field, swimming, and volleyball to Gay Games staples such as figure skating, tennis, and soccer. Denver also plans to incorporate locally popular activities like rock climbing and flag football, as well as adaptive sport divisions to ensure inclusivity for athletes of all abilities.
Complementing the athletic competitions, Denver’s cultural program aims to celebrate diversity and creativity. The city plans to host art exhibitions, international music festivals, and cultural showcases throughout the week. Specific events include a choral festival, band festival, and visual arts exhibition. These cultural offerings will highlight both local talents and global influences, providing participants and spectators with a rich, multifaceted experience that extends beyond sports. By combining athletic events with a vibrant cultural program, Denver aims to create a comprehensive Gay Games experience that showcases the city’s welcoming atmosphere and diverse community.
Support and Collaboration
Denver’s bid for the 2030 Gay Games has garnered significant support from various sectors, demonstrating a united effort to bring this prestigious event to the city. The bid enjoys strong political backing, with Colorado Governor Jared Polis and Denver Mayor Mike Johnston expressing their full support. Governor Polis, as the first openly gay elected governor in U.S. history, brings a unique emphasis to the bid’s significance.
The collaboration extends beyond political figures to include a wide range of community organizations and businesses. Visit Denver is playing a crucial role in promoting the city’s unique offerings, from internationally renowned sporting facilities to its rich cultural scene. Local LGBTQ+ organizations are contributing their expertise in organizing tournaments and community events, leveraging their experience to strengthen the bid. The bid committee is working closely with these groups to finalize proposed venues for each sport and various cultural events. This collaborative effort aims to showcase Denver’s vibrant LGBTQ+ community to the world while emphasizing the city’s commitment to the FGG mission of equality, diversity, and inclusion through both sport and culture. The unprecedented cooperation among dozens of local LGBTQ+ organizations is expected to serve as a model for future Gay Games, potentially leaving a lasting legacy of pride and unity in the local community.
Author: Jeff Wilson
Jeff is one of the owners of GayDenver and one of its writers. He is a Denver transplant who loves the city and the proximity of the mountains. He is happily married to his husband and loves hiking with his furbaby Thayella.