Published 14 September 2026 | Events

TL;DR: Marymontaña LGTBIQ+ marks five years with a full-day event in La Chanca, showcasing its role as a key local space for inclusion, culture, and support across Almería’s diverse LGTBIQ+ community.

Marymontaña Marks Fifth Anniversary

A Day of Dialogue and Celebration

On Saturday, 26 September, the Centro Cultural de La Chanca will become a vibrant hub for Almería’s LGTBIQ+ community as Marymontaña marks its fifth anniversary. The event is more than a party—it’s a thoughtful blend of education, culture, and community-building. The day kicks off with a discussion on intersectionality led by social agents Miguel Machado and Yamna Marraoui, followed by an open conversation with other local LGTBIQ+ groups. A session on rights presented by university professor Víctor Bastante will set the tone for the morning, which concludes with the debut performance of Marymontaña’s newly formed choir under the direction of María Milán.

Artistic Workshops and Important Conversations

After a midday break for communal dining, the afternoon shifts into creative gear with simultaneous workshops in theatrical improvisation directed by José Gabriel Fuentes and painting with artist Juan Antonio Maldonado. As the afternoon progresses, attention turns to pressing topics within the community, including a frank session about “chemsex” with special guests from Narcóticos Anónimos. An additional space is dedicated to diverse family structures, guided by social educator Joaquín Conde. The event closes on a cultural note with storyteller Nadine Rodríguez, celebrated winner of Regias del Drag España’s third season.

Growing Inclusivity and Social Support

Since its founding five years ago, Marymontaña has become an essential safe space for Almería’s LGTBIQ+ community. The association recently saw a surge in membership as it broadened its embrace to include all identities under the LGTBIQ+ umbrella. Rodrigo Capel, president of Marymontaña, highlights the importance of unity: “The community must stay united, and no identities should be left out of representation or support.” Beyond social and cultural activities, Marymontaña has deepened its social commitment by partnering with local Third Sector organizations. This collaboration aims to support the most vulnerable within the community, including children, diverse families, and migrants. Initiatives like “social sponsorship” ensure everyone can access the association’s programs regardless of administrative status, complemented by a new coexistence commission.

A Vibrant Community Offering

Visitors to the anniversary event will get a firsthand look at Marymontaña’s extensive lineup of activities for the coming season. Alongside longstanding groups such as theatre, book club, hiking, pádel, mountain biking routes, and volleyball—which will host its fourth anti-LGTBiphobia tournament in February 2027—the association introduces new sports like football and the choir. Throughout the day, communal spaces encourage socializing with board games and provide informative points outlining the association’s history. A special merchandise stall offers exclusive items, soon available online, inviting everyone to take a little piece of this growing community home.

Building a Stronger Almería Together

Marymontaña’s fifth anniversary celebration is an open invitation to the wider Almería public to acknowledge the strength of local associations committed to diversity and inclusion. Far from isolated, the organisation is actively weaving a more supportive and representative social fabric. Every talk, workshop, and shared meal aims to reinforce a community that respects all its members’ identities and experiences. Through steady growth and meaningful engagement, Marymontaña continues to establish itself as a cornerstone of Almería’s social and cultural landscape.

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