Celebrate PRIDE in Wilton Manors at the Stonewall Festival!

12th February 2024 BWM Staff

As winter does its worst, many of us are already dreaming of summer, which of course kicks off with Pride season! And while many Pride celebrations take place toward the end of June, Wilton Manors will hold theirs right smack dab in the middle of the month on June 15, which is the date they will hold their Stonewall Pride Parade and Festival. This is especially convenient for those of us who make Pride a true month-long celebration by hopping from city to city to join in the local festivities with our wider LGBTQ+ family. So, this year, why not join our queer siblings in the Lauderdale area for a Pride extravaganza like no other?! You’ll be supporting the Floridian queer community, immersed in a sea of gorgeous bears that call Wilton Manors home, and you’d be helping to show certain politicians that we’re not going anywhere. I mean what could be more in the spirit of Stonewall, right?

The Stonewall Pride Parade and Festival is named so to commemorate the original Stonewall Riots of 1969 in New York City which kickstarted the LGBTQ+ human rights movement. The event, which takes place along Wilton Drive, attracts about 50,000 spectators. The festival extends from NE 20th Street to NE 11th Ave and begins at 3PM followed by the parade which is held at twilight around 7PM. There will be 7 stages and 16 bars dispersed throughout the festival area featuring entertainment, music, food, a huge array of vendors and all sorts of celebratory fun. Tickets can be purchased here for $10 in advance or at point of entry for $12.

All images courtesy of Hot Spots! Magazine. Photos by Dan Perez & Keans Llamera.

After the parade and festival wraps up at 11, we recommend heading out to the bear bars to keep the party going! The Eagle of Wilton Manors will have Techno Bear going on the night of June 15,if you’re looking for a dance party. Another option for dancing would be “Sweat” over at the Ramrod. Georgie’s Alibi will be offering up a drag show and some Latin music that night and of course Scandals Saloon and Hunters will be there if you just want a low-key drink to end the festivities. The options are truly endless.

If you’re looking for a place to stay the weekend (or longer!) we of course recommend the legendary Grand Resort & Spa which is a mere five minute walk from Sebastian Beach or the Cabanas Guesthouse which is a gorgeous riverfront property that is a short cab ride away from all the action in Wilton Manors. Both are clothing optional, super accommodating and gay male exclusive properties. WOOF!