The Maspalomas Forever Gala recognizes the entire LGBTI journey in San Bartolome de Tirajana.

The San Bartolomé de Tirajana City Council, through the Department of the Elderly, held the Maspalomas Forever – Yesterday, Today and Always gala, an event that brought together more than 150 people in a moving tribute to the individuals and organizations that have contributed to consolidating Maspalomas as an international benchmark for inclusive tourism and diversity.

The event, held under the direction of Councilor for the Mayor, Dimas Sarmiento, featured the participation of First Deputy Mayor Alejandro Marichal, who emphasized in his speech the importance of publicly recognizing the work of those who have been pioneers in defending the rights and visibility of the LGBTI community. "Tonight we have given a face, voice, and emotion to a brave generation. The Maspalomas Forever gala is not just a recognition: it's a promise. The promise that this society will not forget what you have done. Thank you for being part of history and for continuing to be present."

 

 

Recognitions awarded

In this first edition, awards were given to:

Nati, a symbol of resistance and dignity for the trans community.

 

Miss Berbely Hills, artist and leading figure of drag at Yumbo nights.

 

Michael Snailham, pioneer of gay nightlife and entrepreneur behind venues such as Heaven and Villas Blancas.

 

André van Wanrooij, human rights activist and former president of GLAY.

 

Giuseppe Bucceri, president of APICEC, for his support of the Italian community and the LGBTI community in Maspalomas.

 

Jaime Baelo, a tourism professional whose work has been instrumental in consolidating Maspalomas as an inclusive destination.

 

The ceremony was hosted by the Arco Iris Collective and featured Maspalomas Pride activist and cultural collaborator Eva Pascual, who noted that the upcoming Pride 2026 event will be dedicated to the older members of the community, "because they are the ones who reached out to us first and now need us the most."

The artistic side was led by Kevin and Mark (Legends GC), with their tribute show that marked a turning point in Gran Canaria entertainment. Adam Marks, a Welsh singer with an international reputation, is recognized for his social commitment on the island.

Likewise, the directors of the recently awarded film at the Maspalomas Festival participated in a video highlighting the destination's historical role and international reach.

In his speech, the president of Punto Arco Iris, Fano Hernández, emphasized the role of the Department for the Elderly in the creation of this project, "as a tribute to the elders of the community and a legacy for future generations."

 

 

Institutional commitment

The Maspalomas Forever gala was born as an initiative promoted by the Department for the Elderly, the result of collaboration with the municipality's social and associative network, with the aim of recognizing the work of older LGBTI people who, through their effort and courage, have paved the way for freedom, inclusion, and respect.

With this event, the Department of the Mayor of San Bartolomé de Tirajana City Council reaffirms its commitment to diversity and to highlighting those who have made the municipality an international benchmark in the defense of the rights and visibility of this collective.