Each edition of the Gay Games offers a multitude of participatory and spectator events. Program requirements attempt to balance continuity and stability from Games to Games, with flexibility and variety for our various host organizations.

At the heart of the Gay Games is the sports program, with hosts offered a choice of nearly 50 sports to build their program.

Cultural events also respect the principles of Participation, Inclusion and Personal Best, and include band, chorus, visual arts and other cultural activities.

Each edition of the Gay Games constitute a major gathering of LGBT people from around the world, and cultural institutions, conference organizers, party promoters, and tourist organizations make the most of this, normally in partnership with the Gay Games host.

The Gay Games are also a time to remember our combats, our victories, our losses, in particular our friends lost to disease, with a focus on AIDS and breast cancer.