Since the 90s, Queer women around the US have been heading to Palm Springs, California in September for the annual legendary Dinah Shore festival – effectively Spring Break for 15,000 Lesbians. But there wasn’t an equivalent for European WLW. So in 2015, DJ Carine De Mesmaeker started Velvet Ibiza, which takes place on Spain’s infamous, hedonistic island paradise. “I truly believe there’s a need for these kinds of gatherings — and that need is still very real, perhaps now more than ever,” she says.
The four day, four night women-only event attracts WLW from all over Europe to the White Isle, for pool parties, club nights, speed dating and DJ sets. And this year is no exception, with the ten year anniversary taking place from 8-12 May at the Palm Star Hotel in San Antonio.
“We’re celebrating in a brand new location — complete with an amazing pool to turn up the pool party vibes, and a fantastic nightclub for unforgettable nights,” says Carine. “As for the rest… we’re keeping a few surprises for our guests to discover.”
The festival itinerary starts with a pool party DJ’d by Boogshe on the Thursday afternoon, followed by a clubnight party hosted by Miss CupCake and DJ Kaspa. On the Friday, guests can choose to go on a boat party excursion in the morning, before settling in for more pool vibes and games like Twister in the afternoon. All drinks and meals are included in the festival ticket, which costs €505 (£432).
“People always go home with the best feeling. It’s such a joy for me to see how they stay connected,” Carine says. “Organising mini meetups, going to Prides together, visiting each other — and in doing so, creating a real chosen family. That’s why they keep coming back, year after year.”
Head to velvetibiza.es for the full itinerary and ticket into.
