Story
Every four years, a sport and cultural tournament is held which brings together athletes from around the world to promote acceptance of sexual diversity.
The Gay Games are open to all who with to participate, and feature lesbian, gay, bisexual, and transgender (LGBT) athletes, artists and more.
Founded in the United States in the 1980s, the Gay Games have been held in Europe three times - in Amsterdam in 1998, in Cologne in 2010 and in Paris in 2018.
The first Gay Games took place in San Francisco in 1982. The Games, as envisioned by Olympian Tom Waddell, were originally intended to be called The Gay Olympics.
However, the International Olympic Committee sued the organisation over the use of the word 'Olympics' and - just 19 days before the competition was due to begin - the name was changed to the 'Gay Games'.
The fifth Gay Games took place in Amsterdam - the first in Europe - in August 1998, with the opening and closing ceremonies at the Amsterdam Arena (now called the Johan Cruyff Arena).
Around 15,000 participants took part in 29 different sports, with the event held under the motto 'Friendship through Culture and Sports'. Alongside the sporting competitions, a cultural event programme was also held.
Share your sport story
Can you help us to tell the story of sport in Europe in the past and the present?
We invite you to tell us about your sport experiences through objects like photographs, memorabilia, equipment or prizes.
Share your story →
This blog is part of the Europeana Sport project which showcases cultural treasures relating to sporting heritage in Europe.