October 12, 2025

The Black Veil Ball: A Fundraising Gala for Mental Health

News Summary

St. Pete Beach will host its largest fundraising event, The Black Veil Ball, organized by Project No Labels to support mental health initiatives in the LGBTQ+ community. The event will feature local artists and entertainers, including drag and burlesque performances, while promoting a spiritual gathering through the Circle of Unity ritual. Funds raised will enhance access to mental health services through a partnership with Rainbow Wellness. Tickets are available online, and donations are welcomed for those unable to attend.

St. Pete Beach will host its largest fundraising event ever, The Black Veil Ball, organized by Project No Labels, on Saturday from 9:30 p.m. to 1:30 a.m. at Cool Vibes on the Beach. The event aims to support mental health initiatives within the LGBTQ+ community by raising funds for a new program developed in partnership with Rainbow Wellness.

Since its inception a decade ago, Project No Labels has dedicated itself to supporting the Tampa Bay area’s LGBTQ+ community. The funds collected during The Black Veil Ball will specifically enhance their mental health program, which has previously provided free and discounted therapy services through a collaboration with Cypress Wellness Center. The recent partnership with Rainbow Wellness intends to make mental health services more accessible for residents of northern Pinellas County and Pasco County, further illustrating the organization’s commitment to community health.

Claire Elisan, the founder of Project No Labels, has articulated the pressing necessity for affordable mental health therapy services. The organization is expanding its focus beyond mere therapy to emphasize the importance of mental, physical, and spiritual health, as well as the significance of healthy relationships within the community.

The Black Veil Ball promises to be a celebration of queer art, spirit, and solidarity. Attendees can expect immersive art and installations from local artists affiliated with Echelon Fine Art Gallery in Largo. The evening will showcase an array of entertainment, including drag performances by Alice Marie Gripp, Kori Stevens, Famou$, and Lilith Black, as well as burlesque acts featuring Emma Jewel and Lady Siren.

A unique aspect of the event is the Circle of Unity ritual, which will be led by Florida Witch and 8H Studios, promoting a grounding and spiritual gathering. Costumes are encouraged, adding to the festive and inclusive atmosphere of the gala.

Throughout the evening, attendees will have the opportunity to participate in a silent auction and various giveaways, providing additional avenues for supporting Project No Labels while enjoying the festivities. Tickets for The Black Veil Ball are available online until the start time of the event. An early-bird discount of 25 percent can be acquired using the code “JOINTHECOVEN.” Once the event begins, tickets will only be available for purchase at the door.

For those unable to attend, donations can still be made to support the organization’s mental health initiatives, thereby contributing to the continuous support of the LGBTQ+ community’s well-being in the Tampa Bay area. The extensive focus and efforts of Project No Labels underscore the essential role that mental health plays within the LGBTQ+ community and the vital services needed to support it.