“Pride Land is not just another festival,” said the main producer and initiator of the festival, Aaron Cohen, “it’s the biggest thing we’ve done here.”
Israel is set to host the Middle East’s largest ever LGBT festival at the Dead Sea in June 2026.
The new festival, Pride Land, intends to transform the middle of the Judean Desert into a colorful pride city from June 1 to June 4.
The event intends to create an experience broader than parties or performances, instead aiming for a space that is alive 24 hours a day, with 15 hotels, beach complexes, parties, and a central performance arena all operating around the clock.
Alongside the nightlife, Pride Land will have cultural and art complexes, relaxation and scenic areas, and family-friendly areas with children’s activities, family-friendly workshops, and customized events.
The organizers hope to create a multigenerational “Pride City,” not just a party celebrating pride. “This is not just another festival, it’s the biggest thing we’ve done here,” explained Aaron Cohen, main producer and initiator of the festival.
Israelis take part in the annual gay parade in Jerusalem on July 28, 2011. (credit: MIRIAM ALSTER/FLASH90)
“We chose to grow,” Cohen added. “To take an investment of millions, purchase entire hotels for 4 days, and build a city from scratch in the middle of the desert. It’s an experience that lives 24/7, from quiet visits to nights of pride, with a living envelope of music and people.”
This is not just a pride event; it also aims to highlight the Dead Sea region as a permanent destination for LGBT tourists, emphasizing that Pride in Israel extends beyond the key hub of Tel Aviv.
Artists within the community
Pride Land’s main stage will host Harel Skaat, Dana International, Ran Danker, Shahar Tabuch, and Ivri Lider, alongside DJs from the Israeli LGBT community.
“Pride Land does not come to replace Tel Aviv’s traditional Pride Parade, but rather to add to the community an event that is tailored to its development and is crafted from within the community with the community’s people,” explained Jonathan Gadol, CEO of X Production.
The event comes at a challenging time for Israel on the international stage, with tourism affected by the country’s security situation.
The organizers aim to present a message of openness, acceptance, and community.
Ticket and package sales are expected to open soon and will include hotel accommodations in the area, daily admission, and premium packages.
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