La Démence

La Démence holds the title of Europe's most enduring gay party. Established in 1989, it has become a monthly magnet in Brussels, drawing thousands of gay revelers from across Europe, the Middle East, and beyond to the renowned Fuse club (208 Rue Blaes). It famously never goes on tour; Brussels is its only home. Now more than 37 years on, it has continually evolved while keeping a devoted following that spans every age and style, from the young to the mature, leather and fetish enthusiasts to the fashion-forward, bears, muscle guys, trans people and even open-minded straights. Across Fuse's three levels and dance floors, with four bars, world-class sound and lighting, playrooms and a legendary dark room, it's renowned for an electric atmosphere where the energy quickly builds to a fever pitch, with sexy go-go dancers, guest DJs and no dress code.

The most anticipated editions are traditionally its All Saints' anniversary weekend (late October / early November), Easter, Brussels Pride in May, and New Year's Day. For the big anniversary, organizers Thierry and Jean-Marie stage a multi-night marathon, opening and closing parties at Fuse bookending an enormous main party in a vast venue like Palais 12 (the ING Arena). The resident DJ roster features names like Andrei Stan, Ben Manson, Chris Bekker, Elias, John Dixon, Jon Doe, Pagano, Paul Heron, Sebastien Triumph and Steven Redant, with VJs and shows by Jean-Marie Desreux. And since 2011, La Démence has extended the brand to an annual Mediterranean gay cruise, now sailing each July.