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St. Petersburg Hosts Its First Winter Pride Celebration

Joyful moments during the first Winter Pride celebration in St. Petersburg.

News Summary

St. Petersburg is set to launch its inaugural Winter Pride from February 16-23, 2024. This week-long event will include various festivities such as street parties, movie screenings, and drag races to celebrate love and inclusivity in the LGBTQ+ community. Local businesses and city officials support this initiative, ensuring many events will be free to attend, helping to solidify St. Petersburg as a year-round destination for LGBTQ+ tourism.

St. Petersburg Throws Its First Winter Pride Bash: A Celebration of Love and Community!

St. Petersburg is buzzing with excitement as it gears up for its inaugural Winter Pride, slated to take place from February 16-23. This event promises to be an unforgettable week filled with fun, love, and vibrant celebrations that honor the LGBTQ+ community. The city aims to transform into a year-round haven for LGBTQ+ tourism, attracting visitors from near and far.

A Dream in the Making

The mastermind behind this remarkable event, Executive Director Rob Hall, has been working tirelessly for over a year, gathering feedback from local businesses to create a festival that truly reflects the spirit of St. Petersburg’s LGBTQ+ community. The response has been overwhelmingly positive, and the excitement is palpable as the date draws nearer.

Highlighting the Festivities

Winter Pride has a packed agenda, with events that cater to a variety of interests and communities. Here’s a sneak peek at what’s in store:

An Opening Street Party/Tea Dance kicks off the festivities on February 16 from 4-10 p.m., inviting everyone to join in the fun as they dance, mingle, and celebrate together.
On February 17, attendees can enjoy a Dive-In Movie screening featuring the classics “Too Wong Foo” and “Showgirls” from 8 p.m. to midnight, creating a unique cinematic experience!
The next day, February 18, brings the Trans-n-Dance event, designed specifically for the trans community and their allies—an evening of joyful celebration and connection.
February 19 will feature a cultural showcase known as “One Love”, headlined by the fabulous Lagoona Bloo. Expect an evening of art, music, and expression!
On February 20, queer women are invited to the fabulous Snow Bunnies event, where fun and camaraderie reign.
A major highlight, the Pelican Ball, takes place on February 21 with celebrity emcee Carson Kressley guiding the evening with flair and style.

Winter Pride Drag Race

February 22

$5,000 donation

To close out the festivities, a vibrant street festival will take place on February 23, showcasing local vendors and live entertainment.
Finish off the week on a high note with a closing Afterglow Tea Dance on February 23 from 5-9 p.m., providing one last chance to dance and celebrate together.

Supporting Inclusivity and Strength

The Grand Central District is stepping up as a key supporter and organizer for Winter Pride, embodying the collaborative spirit of this event. St. Petersburg’s city government is also co-sponsoring the festivities, demonstrating its commitment to supporting LGBTQ+ initiatives throughout the community.

It’s worth noting that many of the Winter Pride events will be free of charge, ensuring accessibility for all. For those looking for an extra dose of luxury, VIP experiences will also be available!

A Place for Everyone

Don’t worry—Winter Pride isn’t meant to overshadow the traditional summer pride events in St. Petersburg. Instead, both are set to complement each other, providing wonderful opportunities for celebration at different times of the year.

Looking Ahead

As the local LGBTQ+ community rallies around this event, they recognize its immense significance, especially in the face of current political challenges. Plans are already in the works to establish a Winter Pride nonprofit, ensuring that this amazing initiative can continue in the years to come.

So, whether you’re a local or just visiting, get ready to join the festivities and celebrate love, acceptance, and unity during St. Petersburg’s first-ever Winter Pride!