Drink
The Apollo Party in Chania has emerged as a landmark of inclusivity, proudly holding the title of Crete’s first dedicated gay club night. Launched in the summer of 2024, it has quickly become a vibrant sanctuary for the LGBTQ+ community and their allies, offering a high-energy space where everyone is encouraged to be their authentic selves. Typically hosted on the second Saturday of each month at venues like the Blessed Club in the Old Port, the event is known for its electric atmosphere, diverse music ranging from pop anthems to house, and a strict "no harassment" policy that ensures a safe environment for all genders and identities. Because the parties often sell out, tickets are generally purchased online in advance, reflecting the immense popularity of this long-awaited addition to Chania's nightlife.
The Queer Party in Chania is a vibrant, DIY-spirited event that transforms local spaces into a sanctuary of radical inclusivity and high-energy expression. Known for its underground feel and community-driven roots, the party sheds the conventional "club" atmosphere in favor of a raw, eclectic mix of electronic beats, synth-pop, and drag performances that celebrate the unconventional. The air is thick with a sense of liberation as locals and travelers alike gather under neon lights, creating a space where gender norms are dismantled and self-expression is the only requirement. It is less of a commercial venture and more of a collective gathering, characterized by its welcoming "come as you are" ethos and a pulsating dance floor that lasts until the early hours of the Cretan morning.
Tucked away on the narrow Isodion Street in the Old Town, Ababa Bar is Chania’s most beloved "gay-popular" hangout and an essential stop for the local queer community. More than just a bar, it serves as an artsy gallery and café with an eccentric, maximalist personality. The interior is famously inspired by the owner’s nostalgia for childhood, featuring walls covered in vintage toys, vibrant paintings, and Frida Kahlo-esque decor.
2026 will mark the 3rd annual Pride march/party in Chania. Normally, we walk through the old town, and afterwards end up at a beach party. Generally taking place at the end of June/start of July. Updates coming once this year's date is confirmed.