 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.    U.S. News named Sarasota Florida as the #1 best place to live in the Sunshine state. U.S. News reported that Sarasota offers a unique blend of vibrant arts, beachy atmosphere, and rapidly growing food culture. In summary, the U.S. News said: Sarasota's appeal is broadening beyond retirees to include young professionals, especially in areas like the Rosemary District, known for its eclectic murals and modern living spaces. Sarasota is celebrated for its outdoor activities, with beautiful beaches like Lido Key and Siesta Key. The city's cultural scene is rich with the Sarasota Orchestra, the Asolo Repertory Theatre, and the Ringling Museum of Art, among others. While the cost of living and housing prices are on the rise, the absence of state income tax and potential property tax benefits through the state’s homestead exemption help balance expenses. The weather in Sarasota is warm year-round, though summers can be hot and humid. The city's infrastructure is evolving with its growth, making a car essential for getting around, despite improvements in public transit and increasing popularity of bicycling. The community is diverse, with a significant retiree population but a growing number of young professionals and families, supported by local colleges and a robust public school system. The job market is healthy, with opportunities especially in the service, hospitality, and healthcare sectors, driven by the region's status as a tourist destination and its elderly population. 
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