 Favorite Community Leader: India X Miller Favorite Youth Activist: Zander Moricz Favorite Realtor: Michael Nogueira Favorite Doctor: Dr Tanya Schreibman Favorite Therapist: Emily Deming-Rivers Favorite Social Media Personality: Brittany Jennings Favorite Drag Personality: Christina Armani Favorite Lawyer: Erik Arroyo Favorite Local Politician: Tom Edwards Favorite Makeup Artist: Kiki Butter Mishchief Favorite DJ: Oliver Dill Favorite Teacher: Georgia Moore Favorite Artist: Jordan Beutel Favorite Massage Therapist: Myra Moore Favorite Musicians: Diversity: The Voices of Sarasota Favorite Chef: Christopher Covelli Favorite Interior Designer: Diego Ramirez Favorite Photographer: Dylan Jon Wade Cox Photography Favorite Actor: Joey Panek Favorite Bartender: Audrey O'Connor Favorite LGBTQ Bar: Qmunity Favorite Bar (Non-LGBTQ): Sage SRQ Favorite LGBTQ-Owned Business: Qmunity Favorite Area Attraction: Mote Marine Laboratory & Aquarium Favorite Performing Arts Venue: Westcoast Black Theatre Troupe Favorite Movie Theater: CMX CinéBistro Siesta Key Favorite Pizza: Mellow Mushroom Sarasota Favorite Coffee Spot: Blvd Cafe Favorite News Source: Suncoast View Favorite Insurance Agency: Richard Dean Insurance - Allstate Agency Favorite Contractor: Michael Manzella Favorite Hotel: Art Ovation Hotel, Autograph Collection Favorite Restaurant: Sage SRQ Favorite Apartment Community: The District at Rosemary Favorite Church: Church of the Trinity MCC in Sarasota, FL Favorite Shop: The Bazaar on Apricot & Lime Favorite Adult Novelty Store: Giggles Sarasota Favorite Fitness Center: Balance Favorite Health Care: CAN Community Health Favorite Pharmacy: Hedges Pharmacy Favorite Salon: Hair by Jimmy J Favorite Brunch: Blvd Cafe Favorite Barbershop: American Shave Favorite Beauty Spa: Elite Medical Spa of Sarasota Favorite Non-Profit (Non-LGBTQ): Orenda Health and Wellness Favorite LGBTQ Non-Profit: ALSO Youth Favorite LGBTQ Group: G2H2 Sarasota - Gay Group Happy Hour Favorite Sports League: SRQ Kickball Favorite LGBTQ Event: Sarasota Pride, Inc Favorite Bingo: Drag Queen Bingo Extravaganza Woman of the Year: India X Miller 2023 ICON Award Winner: Jason Champion  As the holiday season approaches, it’s the perfect time to reflect on gratitude and generosity. Enter #GivingTuesday, a global movement dedicated to unleashing the power of generosity to transform communities. Celebrated annually on the Tuesday following Thanksgiving, this special day encourages individuals, businesses, and organizations to give back, whether through time, donations, or advocacy. SarasotaOUT.com is thrilled to spotlight local organizations that work tirelessly to support, uplift, and empower Sarasota’s LGBTQ+ community. These organizations are at the heart of creating a more inclusive, supportive, and thriving community for everyone. Local LGBTQ Organizations that need your support! Diversity: The Voices of Sarasota: This LGBTQ+ all-welcoming chorus brings people together through music, celebrating humanity and inspiring the community to embrace equality. Their performances feature a unique take on traditional repertoire, Broadway favorites, and current hits, promoting inclusion and unity. Project Pride SRQ: Dedicated to celebrating and uniting Sarasota’s diverse community, Project Pride SRQ provides social connections and supports LGBTQ+ individuals, businesses, and organizations. They organize events like the Sarasota Pride Festival, fostering visibility and inclusivity throughout the year. ALSO Youth: Providing peer support services, educational programs, and advocacy, ALSO Youth creates a safe and supportive space for LGBTQ+ and questioning youth to connect, grow, and thrive. Their drop-in center offers a welcoming environment for young individuals to engage in healthy dialogues about LGBTQ+ issues. Equality Florida: As the largest civil rights organization dedicated to securing full equality for Florida’s LGBTQ+ community, Equality Florida advocates for policies that protect and uplift LGBTQ+ individuals. They work on various initiatives, including public policy advocacy and community education, to promote equality across the state. PFLAG Sarasota: PFLAG Sarasota offers support, education, and advocacy for LGBTQ+ individuals and their families, fostering understanding and building a more inclusive community. They provide resources and a supportive environment for families and friends of LGBTQ+ individuals to promote acceptance and equality. Fabulous Arts Foundation: Merging creativity with activism, the Fabulous Arts Foundation uses art to highlight LGBTQ+ voices and stories, celebrating diversity and strengthening cultural ties in Sarasota. They host events like the PRIDE | Be Fabulous Music & Arts Fest, featuring music, film, visual art, and performance art. Orenda Health & Wellness: Orenda Health & Wellness is dedicated to supporting individuals facing HIV/AIDS and other health disparities. They offer free and confidential HIV testing, counseling, and education on sexual health, empowering individuals to make informed health choices. Venice Pride: Enhancing LGBTQ+ visibility in South Sarasota County, Venice Pride organizes events and initiatives that celebrate diversity and promote equality, fostering a sense of community and acceptance. Purple Rhino Lodge: The Purple Rhino Lodge provides fellowship opportunities for Sarasota’s LGBTQ+ community while raising funds for HIV-related services, strengthening community ties and supporting those in need. How You Can Make a Difference Your support is crucial in sustaining these organizations’ efforts. Whether through donations, volunteering, or spreading the word, your involvement ensures the continuation of their vital work. Visit SarasotaOUT.com/2024give.html to learn more about these organizations and how you can contribute. Donations are encouraged all year long but we are running our #givingtuesday campaign until December 31st, so there’s plenty of time to make an impact. Together, let’s make this holiday season a time of compassion, generosity, and meaningful change.  In the wake of Florida’s controversial legislation restricting access to public restrooms based on assigned gender at birth, the American Civil Liberties Union (ACLU) is reaching out to the LGBTQ+ community to amplify the voices of those directly impacted. The ACLU’s latest initiative invites Floridians affected by the law to share their experiences through a dedicated platform, aiming to connect with individuals whose rights and lives have been disrupted by the ban. The law, which applies to public buildings, schools, and other facilities, has faced widespread criticism for marginalizing transgender and non-binary individuals. Advocates argue that the ban exacerbates discrimination, creates unsafe situations, and fosters an unwelcoming environment for many members of the LGBTQ+ community. By collecting and sharing stories, the ACLU hopes to bring awareness to the human cost of the legislation and build momentum for advocacy and legal challenges. If you or someone you know has been impacted by this ban, consider sharing your story with the ACLU to help shed light on the consequences of this policy. Visit the ACLU’s website at action.aclu.org to learn more or to participate in this important initiative. Together, we can push for a more inclusive and equitable Florida. Note: SarasotaOUT.com encourages everyone to stand in solidarity with the LGBTQ+ community and support organizations like the ACLU working tirelessly to defend our rights.
Hurricane Milton has left a devastating mark on Sarasota, impacting two safe spaces for the LGBTQ+ community: Downtown Saraosota's ALSO Youth location and Fabulous Arts Foundation's new LGBTQ+ Center. Both centers offer support, mental health services, and advocacy, are now grappling with significant damage and need the community’s help to rebuild and continue their work.
ALSO Youth Sarasota Center Closed Indefinitely ALSO Youth, an organization dedicated to empowering LGBTQ+ youth in Sarasota and Manatee counties, has closed its Sarasota Center indefinitely due to severe damage from the hurricane. This closure comes at a time when LGBTQ+ youth need safe spaces and support more than ever. For now, the organization has moved its operations to their Bradenton Center, ensuring that its critical programs, including mental health services and leadership development, continue uninterrupted. Despite the setback, ALSO Youth remains hopeful. “Our hearts are with all those impacted,” the organization shared. “We feel certain that our community will rebuild together.” For information about available programs, community members are encouraged to visit their website or reach out via email at [email protected]. 
The new LGBTQ+ center faces severe damage even before it opens its doors
The new LGBTQ+ Center, located in the Limelight District, was poised to be a transformative space for Sarasota’s LGBTQ+ community. Spearheaded by Shannon Fortner and the Fabulous Arts Foundation, the center had been designed to offer mental health services, art therapy, and a sober space for those in recovery. It was set to provide a vital resource for healing and creativity during a time when anti-LGBTQ+ sentiment and legislation are on the rise across the nation.
“Every donation will bring us closer to reopening and continuing to hold space for healing, community, and creativity,” Fortner emphasized. The community can donate or volunteer their time to help clear debris and begin the rebuilding process.
A Call to Action
As both ALSO Youth and the LGBTQ+ Center work tirelessly to recover from the devastation, the need for community support has never been more urgent. These spaces have and will provide invaluable resources and support for Sarasota’s LGBTQ+ community, and now, they need our help. Whether through financial donations, volunteering, or simply spreading the word, we all have a role to play in helping these centers rebuild. How You Can Help
 The highly anticipated Gulfcoast Pride, originally scheduled for October 19th in Downtown Sarasota, has been postponed as our community grapples with the aftermath of Hurricane Milton. This inaugural event, meant to unite the Sarasota and Manatee Pride celebrations, is now on hold as Sarasota and nearby areas focus on recovery. Hurricane Milton made landfall on October 9th, striking Siesta Key as a powerful Category 3 storm, just weeks after Hurricane Helene brought destruction to northern Florida. The back-to-back storms left significant damage across the region, prompting Project Pride’s board to reevaluate their plans. “The community needs to heal. It’s been a crazy two weeks,” says Project Pride President Jason Champion. “We decided to postpone Gulfcoast Pride in response to the recent hurricanes in our community. This lets us shift our efforts to support those in need.” In these trying times, Project Pride’s decision reflects a prioritization of healing and unity. The nonprofit will continue to communicate with Gulfcoast Pride vendors and stakeholders in the coming days and is working closely with city officials to identify a new date for the celebration. Though the event is postponed, the spirit of Pride remains strong. Our community’s resilience is more evident than ever as we come together to support each other in recovery efforts. Gulfcoast Pride will return, and when it does, it will be a powerful celebration of not only our diversity but our collective strength.  In a fresh twist for this year’s celebration of Sarasota’s LGBTQ+ community, the annual OUT Awards are moving to the holiday season. Traditionally held in October, the awards ceremony will now take place in November and December, offering a unique opportunity to celebrate community accomplishments during a time of giving, reflection, and togetherness. Joshua Beadle, the creator and organizer of the OUT Awards, believes this new timing will provide the perfect backdrop for recognizing the individuals, businesses, and organizations that have made a positive impact on Sarasota’s LGBTQ+ scene. “The holiday season is a time for fellowship and giving thanks,” says Beadle. “By moving the event to closer to the Holidays, we hope to create a more festive and meaningful atmosphere for celebrating the incredible people who make Sarasota’s LGBTQ+ community thrive.”  The OUT Awards have become a beloved tradition since their launch in 2017, with the community voting in more than 50 categories, including Best LGBTQ+ Business, Best Drag Performer, and Community Ally of the Year. The awards have always been about shining a spotlight on the people and places that uplift the community through their work and support. By shifting the date to the holiday season, Beadle aims to heighten the celebratory spirit of the event. “We’re excited to see how the new timing adds an extra layer of joy and gratitude to the ceremony,” he adds. “It’s not just about awards—it’s about bringing people together during a season of giving and reflecting on the growth of our community over the past year.” Voting for the 2024 OUT Awards will begin in November, allowing the Sarasota community to voice their support for local LGBTQ+ leaders and allies. The awards ceremony in December will feature live performances, festive decor, and an array of holiday-themed surprises, making it one of the must-attend holiday events of the year!  Margaret Good accepting the ICON award in 2019 One of the most prestigious recognitions at the awards is the ICON Award, honoring individual who exemplify passion and dedication to Sarasota’s LGBTQ+ community. Past recipients include notable community figures like Beneva Fruitville, Shannon Fortner, Margaret Good, Christopher Covelli, Hunter Vance, Donna Hanley and Roger Capote. This prestigious award highlights the leaders who have made lasting impacts through their advocacy, visibility, and contributions to the betterment of Sarasota's LGBTQ+ community. Not only are the OUT Awards a celebration of the community, they are community-driven. That’s why SarasotaOUT.com is seeking sponsorships to help make the 2024 awards the best yet. Sponsorship levels are available for every budget, including a $100 Award Level sponsorships, which covers the cost of over 50 awards. These sponsorships play a vital role in keeping this community-driven event memorable for all. For more information on how to sponsor or get involved with the 2024 OUT Awards, visit www.sarasotaOUT.com/sponsor. Sarasota’s cultural and LGBTQ+ landscape is experiencing a transformative year, marked by two significant milestones: the opening of the new LGBTQ+ Center in the Limelight District and the 2024 Fabulous Independent Film Festival (Fab-IFF). Both are spearheaded by Shannon Fortner, a relentless advocate for queer arts and inclusivity. These dual projects highlight Fortner’s vision for a more supportive, creative, and connected LGBTQ+ community in Sarasota.  A Vision for Film and Representation The 2024 Fabulous Independent Film Festival is set to run from October 4–6 at the historic Burns Court Cinema. This year’s lineup promises a bold selection of films that not only entertain but challenge societal norms and explore the depths of LGBTQ+ identity, belonging, and resilience. Opening the festival is Desire Lines, a feature film that delves into the unpredictability of life and love, paired with the short film You Are, which explores themes of self-acceptance. Another standout is Queen of My Dreams, a multi-generational tale of identity and family, accompanied by the short A Bird Hit My Window and Now I'm A Lesbian. (HappeningNext)(CGIII).
For fans of relationship dynamics, Throuple, a story of love, jealousy, and boundaries in a three-person relationship, is set to captivate viewers, preceded by the short 11 Block to Go: The Bet. Another highlight is Summer Qamp, a documentary about LGBTQ+ summer camps, paired with the short Pink Walls, which reflects on the intersection of art and identity (CGIII). The festival also boasts a diverse range of short films, with blocks dedicated to amplifying trans voices. Films like Trans Heaven, Pennsylvania and Seat 31 Zooey Zephyr highlight the struggles and triumphs of the trans community(HappeningNext)(CGIII). For those looking to experience all that the 2024 Fabulous Independent Film Festival has to offer, you have two options. You can purchase a Film Pass for $45, which grants access to all the films throughout the festival, or you can opt for a "pay-as-you-go" approach, with individual tickets available for just $8 per screening for students, and $12 for general admission. Whether you're a die-hard film lover or just looking to catch a couple of standout features, there’s flexibility to fit your schedule. To purchase your Film Pass or individual tickets, visit Eventbrite here.  Board member, Carlos B, putting together donated tables for the new LGBTQ+ Center. Opening the Doors to Safety and Community Coinciding with the film festival is the highly anticipated opening of Sarasota’s new LGBTQ+ Center. Located in the heart of the Limelight District, the center is the culmination of years of community-building by Fortner and their team at the Fabulous Arts Foundation. Designed to be more than just a physical space, the center will offer a wide array of services aimed at supporting the mental, emotional, and creative needs of Sarasota's LGBTQ+ population. The space, which will have its soft opening on September 27, comes at a critical time. As Fortner notes, the increasing number of anti-LGBTQ+ laws nationwide has left many in the community feeling isolated and vulnerable. The new center is a direct response to this climate of fear, offering mental health resources, art therapy, and a sober space for individuals in recovery. The long-term vision includes expanding services to provide even more support as the center grows into its second phase. "With the LGBTQ+ Center, we want to create a place where people of all ages and identities can feel safe, heard, and seen," says Fortner. The center will host everything from art workshops and gardening classes to clinician-led therapy sessions, ensuring there’s something for everyone who walks through its doors. For Fortner, the goal is clear: to foster community, healing, and belonging during an era marked by political and social uncertainty. More than anything, the new LGBTQ+ Center needs the community's support to fully realize its mission. After 14 years of holding space and creating platforms, the center now has a physical home—a vibrant, grounding space designed to heal, inspire, and uplift. But to make this vision a lasting reality, donations and volunteers are essential. Your contributions will help fund vital programming, mental health services, and creative outlets that reflect the diverse spirit of our community. Whether through financial support or sharing your time and talents, you’ll be helping to create a safe haven where everyone feels valued and empowered. Join us in building a beacon of hope and inspiration for Sarasota’s LGBTQ+ community. Together, we can ensure this center continues to thrive as a place for connection, growth, and healing. For more information CLICK HERE.  Uniting Art, Advocacy, and Action Both the film festival and the new LGBTQ+ Center are part of Fortner's broader vision for a more inclusive Sarasota. Through their leadership at the Fabulous Arts Foundation, they continue to bring together artists, activists, and everyday citizens in a shared mission to create spaces where LGBTQ+ voices are not only welcomed but celebrated. "The arts have always been a way to empower and uplift our community," Fortner reflects. "With the opening of the LGBTQ+ Center and this year's film festival, we're taking another step toward ensuring everyone feels they have a place where they belong. And with new, diverse leadership joining the Fabulous Arts Foundation, we are more excited than ever to see what we can accomplish" Sarasota's LGBTQ+ community is stronger than ever, and with these two transformative initiatives launching this fall, Fortner is proving once again that art, film, and advocacy are powerful tools for change.  SarasotaOUT.com is thrilled to announce the much-anticipated return of Big Gay Weekend, restored to its original, dynamic format. This June, prepare for a series of BIG GAY events that promise to capture the heart and spirit of Pride Month in a way that only Sarasota can! A Weekend of Diversity and Celebration Starting in 2022, Big Gay Weekend burst onto the Sarasota scene with a bang, featuring a curation of events—from a pride booze cruise to a toga party. However, During it's second year the format was consolidated by hosting all the events within the host hotel venues. Organizers of Big Gay Weekend thought this change would be more convenient for guests and provide a vacation experience similar to the legendary Flamingo Resort, which used to be the LGBTQ+ destination in St Petersburg, FL. While last year’s celebration was fun, past attendees expressed a longing for the diversity in the activities that initially defined the original Big Gay Weekend experience. Responding to the community’s feedback, SarasotaOUT.com is reinstating the original weekend format of Big Gay Weekend and parting ways with being hosted at a hotel and instead presenting an array of events that celebrate the beauty and uniqueness of Sarasota and it's LGBTQ+ community. A Partnership with Orenda Health This year, SarasotaOUT.com is proud to team up with Orenda Health. Orenda Health is dedicated to supporting individuals facing HIV/AIDS and other health disparities, offering culturally sensitive services and fostering better health outcomes. "We are thrilled to be teaming up with SarasotaOUT.com to celebrate the community and to provide education of our services," says Mackenzie Jianelli, Health Education Program Consultant for Orenda Health. "Our partnership highlights our commitment to enhancing the health, wellness and pride of the communities we support." Friday, June 14th: Sunset Pride Cruise: A New Twist on an Old Favorite The weekend kicks off with a Sunset Pride Cruise aboard Sarasota's infamous LaBarge. Unlike SarasotaOUT.com's previous night club at sea cruises that set sail late in the night, this cruise has been chartered during peak hours offers breathtaking views of Sarasota Bay at dusk—providing an ideal backdrop for dancing, socializing, and celebrating. Come on board to celebrate Pride on Sarasota's Bay. Tickets are available now, and with such a limited amount - they will sell out!  Saturday, June 15th: Big Gay Beach Party The heart of Big Gay Weekend lies on Saturday with the Big Gay Beach Party at North Lido Beach. This iconic event, a staple for the last seven years, draws hundreds from across Florida and beyond. This year you can expect a local DJ for the perfect soundtrack to enjoy the day, Free Jell-O shots for guest 21+, and other suprises. Sunday, June 16th: To Be Announced While details for Sunday’s closing event are still under wraps, anticipation is building. Promised to be "a worthy finale," this event will cap off a weekend of celebration, unity, and community pride. With Sarasota’s ability to host events that feature our beautiful beaches and gorgeous scenery during Pride Month—a rarity in many parts of the United States—Big Gay Weekend is a unique opportunity to celebrate diversity in one of the most beautiful settings in the country. Orenda Health and SarasotaOUT.com invite everyone to take part in this extraordinary weekend. So mark your calendars for June 14-16, 2024, and prepare to experience the full spectrum of joy and pride that only Sarasota can offer. Big Gay Weekend is back, and it's here to make a splash in the most fabulous way possible!   Sarasota, FL — This May 5th, Riverview High School's auditorium will resonate with the harmonious blend of voices from two of Florida's most inclusive and diverse choral groups: Sarasota's own Diversity: The Voices of Sarasota and St. Petersburg's One City Chorus. The concert, aptly named "Sunshine State of Mind," promises an evening of music that celebrates Florida's cultural tapestry through songs that speak to the heart of inclusivity, hope, and community change. Bern Cattanach, President of Diversity: The Voices of Sarasota, emphasizes the chorus's mission: "We are all about uniting diverse voices to create a tapestry of sound that mirrors our community. From professional vocalists to those who sing in the shower, we open our arms to anyone who believes in the power of music as a tool for change." Diversity: The Voices of Sarasota is a beacon for the LGBTQ community and allies, advocating for social unity and equality through musical expression. Their partner, One City Chorus, holds a similar ethos. Established in 2016, One City Chorus operates on the principle that singing together not only strengthens community bonds but also fosters understanding across diverse groups. Their performances are often highlighted by themes of social justice and civil rights, resonating with audiences across the region.  The upcoming collaboration between these two choruses is not their first. Their previous partnership culminated in a widely acclaimed performance at St. Pete's Palladium Theater, which ended in a rousing standing ovation — a testament to their collective impact and popularity. "A Sunshine State of Mind" will feature an array of songs carefully selected to reflect the vibrant and varied facets of Florida life. Audiences can expect a dynamic range from the enchanting "Disney Dazzle" to the profound "A Change is Gonna Come" and the joyous "Day O." Each piece has been chosen not only for its musicality but for its ability to inspire reflection on the current social climate and encourage positive change. Under the skilled leadership of Jon Arterton and Chris Romeo, more than 130 singers will take the stage, accompanied by the vibrant Diversity House Band. To ensure the event is accessible to everyone, an American Sign Language interpreter will be present, translating the rich tapestry of lyrics and melodies. This addition underscores the concert's ethos of inclusivity, making "Sunshine State of Mind" a truly comprehensive celebration of diversity and unity. The evening will not just be about song; it will be an immersive experience. From the high energy of "YMCA" to the empowering lyrics of Lady Gaga’s "Applause," the concert is designed to engage and uplift, leaving attendees with a renewed sense of community and hope. Looking beyond "Sunshine State of Mind," Diversity: The Voices of Sarasota is gearing up for an international appearance at the GALA Festival in Minneapolis, where they will share their message of love and unity on a global stage. The Gay and Lesbian Association of Choruses (GALA) Festival is a five-day event that takes place every four years and is the world's largest LGBTQ choral event. The festival features concerts, workshops, social events, and pride. In 2024, the festival will take place from July 10–14 in downtown Minneapolis, with more than 6,000 singers from over 100 choruses and ensembles performing at world-class venues. To support Diversity: The Voices of Sarasota's participation in GALA Festival you can donate to the organization here. This collaborative performance in Sarasota is more than a musical event; it's a vivid expression of the area's commitment to diversity and inclusiveness, set against the backdrop of Florida's sunlit landscape. It's an invitation to all who believe in the transformative power of music to come together and celebrate the unity that diversity brings. To puchase tickets: CLICK HERE (use code SunnyDaze at checkout to receive $10 off your order)    The Big Gay Beach Party, an annual celebration of pride and unity, has become a highlight of our beach communities social calendar, offering a day of fun in the sun on June 15th, 2024. SarasotaOUT.com, a champion for the local LGBTQ community, spearheads The Big Gay Beach Party, under the guidance of its founder, Joshua Beadle.
Sarasota's gay beach parties started as a weekly event called "Sarasota Summer Gay Beach Party Series" in 2017. The event kicked off with around 20 people and took place every Sunday, during June, July and August. Due to the massive effort required, it has since been pared down to a singular, grand celebration during June to coincide with Pride month. "It's easily one of my favorite events," Joshua beams. The mission, he says, "is for us to celebrate our community in the most beautiful setting. Not many places can host a beach party like this, that is literally right over the bridge, minutes away!"  A photo from one of the first Sarasota Summer Gay Beach Party Series. The community response has been overwhelmingly positive with inclusivity being at the heart of the Big Gay Beach Party. "This event really brings people together—it brings families, straight people, and everyone in between of every body type" Joshua explained, "I've always said that this event is for everybody and every body!" Hundreds of people show up, wearing colorful outfits, sharing food and drinks, there to enjoy a day of camaraderie and fun. Joshua fondly remembers one particular year when someone brought an entire inflatable living room, complete with a disco ball. "It was really a spectacle to see," he laughs. The event has drawn people from across Florida and beyond, turning it into the perfect place to make new friends. Despite its success, the event has faced challenges, primarily logistical. The secluded nature of North Lido Beach, while perfect for privacy and historical significance as a nudist beach (not anymore), means that everything needed for the party must be brought in by hand or beach cart. Attendees of the Big Gay Beach Party are expected to bring everything they would need for a self contained day at the beach. Essentials like sunscreen, shade, snacks, and water are some of the top items we recommend. Joshua is proud of the support from the city, particularly in logistics and maintaining cleanliness—an area the city and SarasotaOUT.com continuously improve upon each year.  Photo from 2022 Big Gay Beach Party SarasotaOUT.com is not just the organizer but also the primary promoter and fundraiser for the event. "We fundraise to cover most of the expenses—from the permits to the DJ," Joshua explains. For those wishing to get involved, Joshua encourages reaching out. "We always need volunteers," he says, and sponsorships are crucial for scaling the event. As for the future, Joshua dreams big. He wants to see it become a fundraising event for Sarasota's LGBTQ community and to help save North Lido beaches and wildlife. "I'd love for it to become a major event that not only celebrates but also supports our community like The Pines Party in Fire Island." The Big Gay Beach Party promises to be another fantastic gathering from SarasotaOUT.com, and a testament to the strength and vibrancy of Sarasota's LGBTQ community and their allies. As Joshua puts it, "It's more than just a party; it's a statement of our presence and our pride." Join the celebration on June 15th at North Lido Beach and experience the unity and fun that only Sarasota can offer. To inquire about sponsorships reach out to Joshua at [email protected]. To keep up to date on the event, join the Facebook event page.   |
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