Maricongelada LGBTIQ+ Ski Festival Debuts in Andorra

The third edition of Maricongelada, an LGBTIQ+ ski festival, launched on Thursday in Pas de la Casa, Andorra, marking the event's first time in the Principat. Organised by journalist Albert Portero and Marc Rivera, the four-day gathering from 12 to 15 March combines skiing on Grandvalira slopes with social activities, drawing around 250 participants, mostly gay men.

The festival offers a safe, discrimination-free space for the LGBTIQ+ community to ski, socialise and build connections, especially for those lacking partners for such outings. Activities include snowshoeing, snowmobiling, Caldea spa trips, après-ski gatherings, karaoke, dinners and parties at venues like Milwaukee and Bilbord. It coincides with Snowrow, with some attendees arriving early from Monday to maximise skiing amid reliable snow conditions.

Passes are available: full access with four days' accommodation, two ski passes and events; weekend options with one pass; or free entry without lodging or passes. All accommodation sold out quickly, reflecting strong demand. Portero highlighted efforts to attract more women and trans participants for greater diversity, noting that men often dominate such initiatives.

Previous editions took place at La Masella in Catalonia, but Andorra's larger slopes, extensive hotel and restaurant options, and year-round growth potential prompted the move. Organisers praised the warm local welcome from hotels, restaurants, sponsors and institutions, despite minor negative media comments from those misunderstanding the event's purpose.

Portero, a 26-year-old from Granollers with a sports journalism background, emphasised visibility to combat prejudices faced in sports like handball. "We're just people claiming our rights," he said, urging critics to attend and see beyond stereotypes. To the hesitant: "There's only one life – better to live it as you feel." He views the festival as a step toward normalisation where rights remain limited.