We just went through the paces in Hillsborough County to repeal a ban on public promotion of gay pride events in county facilities (like libraries), where Pride celebrations were singled out for being too adult. I noticed many straight couples and families walking alongside us, or waving on the sidelines, supplementing the LGBT spectrum. Instead of being dominated by fetish groups and overt sexuality, it was more political, more about equality. This year’s event was the first where it felt truly like a gathering of like minds, with a shared mission, and a unified voice. In the past, Pride has been an opportunity to see and be seen, diet, wear lots of exposed skin, and drink. Along with heavyweights like Macy’s, Citigroup, Ernst & Young, Progressive, Wells Fargo, and major local politicians (Tampa Mayor Bob Buckhorn), as well as candidates for office (Darden Rice, Rick Kriseman), we tossed beads and waved through the historic Kenwood section of St. I walked for the second year with the PwC group, near the end of the parade lineup. Years of systemic discrimination have hardened the LGBT community, so a little inclement weather did little to discourage crowds, open convertible tops, and rainbow fervor. Petersburg Pride celebration was extra sparkly, thanks to a timely Supreme Court decision, despite some heavy downpours and stiff winds. Allies and advocates will experience an examination of LGBTQ+ history unlike any other and even discuss the events with survivor Jay Chetney.
Happening around the same time is the Stonewall Uprising Film Screening, which takes a look back at the 1969 Stonewall Inn raid, a pivotal event that launched the Gay Rights Movement. Petersburg, the Stonewall Reception hosts an elegant fashion show, open bar, delicious food and a diverse blend of art. No longer just a limited art show, the Stonewall St Pete Pride Reception is now a must-see in anticipation of Pride Week. Not to mention, you’ll get to witness live art by some of the state’s most renowned creators and dance to an entire night of music. Attendees can vote on their favorite tasting menus and donate the winning proceeds to a chosen LGBTQ+ organization. Taking place across 20 restaurants, bars and breweries, Taste of Pride is a delectable feast for kings and queens. Plus, a portion of the bar crawl’s boozy proceeds benefits the Trevor Project, the world’s largest LGBTQ-run crisis intervention center. Pete’s most popular queer-owned bars, and enjoy exclusive drink specials for one proud night! Get a custom pride badge with dozens of vouchers to some of St. The Pride Bar Crawl is an event cocktail lovers shouldn’t miss. Here are a few other major events you can enjoy during the St Pete Pride season: Pride Bar Crawl Pete’s most beautiful parks alongside the loudest and proudest attendees.
Enjoy renowned queer DJs and performances by some of Florida’s most famous queens. Kick-Off Party: Prepare for the much-awaited parade by partying by the beach until sunrise.Watch the most eccentric performers as they showcase stunning gowns and unique talents.
Miss St Pete Pride: For the last 12 years, queens from all over Florida have competed for this revered title.Pete Pride has expanded this once-simple promenade into a lineup of exciting events for all communities. Pete Pride, which draws in over 100,000 attendees every year. There is no bigger Florida-based pride parade than St.