Big Gay Weekend Returns: A Celebration Reimagined!

​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!
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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.
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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!
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​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.
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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.
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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!
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