“We believe that love has the power to unify us. By reinforcing solidarity and acceptance within our community and with our allies, we can truly begin to create more inclusive spaces that are representative of our amazing LGBTQ community,” said Rich Walczak, Executive Director, Miami Beach Pride. “The foundation on which this week is built is the concept of self-acceptance and authenticity and why we want everyone to feel like they belong at our celebration this year.”
Reflecting our new reality, the event has implemented COVID protocols and prevention measures including encouraging social distancing, use of sanitizer stations, frequent disinfection, increased VIP tent sizes and online registrations. Free masks will also be available on-site. According to organizers, “Registration enables the organization to more effectively communicate any changes in local, state and federal COVID-19 safety guidelines and increases the accuracy of their contact tracing program.”
In addition, The Independent Medical Group will distribute “thousands of COVID-19 vaccinations completely free of charge. Vaccination facilities will be clearly marked on the festival grounds and open to all attendees.”
Highlights of Pride 2021
For a complete list of activities, visit MiamiBeachPride.comQueer Art Showcase: Monday, September 13, 7 pm, Eden Roc Miami Beach. Immersive art experience featuring works by local LGBTQ+ artists, including Jose Blanco, Askenaxi, Jonathan Brooks, and Leslie Cohen. Admission is free but RSVPs are required.
Miss Miami Beach Pride pageant: Tuesday, September 14, 7 pm, Faena Theater. “[G]uests will witness some of Florida’s fiercest queens compete for the title of Miss Miami Beach Pride,” according to an announcement of the event. Tickets $35-$450. More info here.
Social Justice Health and Wellness evening: Wednesday, September 15, 6 pm – 10:30 pm,
Soho Beach House. The event focuses on social justice issues facing the LGBTQ+ community with five panels on topics that include racial inequality and equity, non-binary and gender issues, and wellness. Admission is free but registration is required.
Legends Ball: Thursday, September 16, 8 pm, “1235 Washington Ave., once home to many iconic Miami Beach mega clubs, will be transformed into an over-the-top 1980’s Tokyo Disco warehouse complete with a catwalk, disco balls, shadow dancers, and more! This red carpet affair is a celebration for ball culture enthusiasts, house music lovers, and scene stealers,” according to the description of the event which “will feature a lavish line-up of celebrity guest judges and hosts including Jack Mizrahi from the Gorgeous House of Gucci and Jason Rodriguez from FX’s smash hit POSE…” Tickets start at $35. More info here.
Miami Beach Pride Festival and Parade Weekend: The culmination of the week is the two-day weekend festival that kicks off at noon on Saturday, September 18 in Lummus Park. Miami Beach Pride notes the event “boast[s] a star-studded roster of almost 100% LGBTQ talent.” Entertainers include Walk The Moon, Carson Kressley, Tracy Young, Alex Newell, Nitty Scott, and Ralphi Rosario.
Parade: Sunday, September 19 starting at 11 am, Lummus Park, Ocean Drive from 5th to 15th Streets.
Free and open to the public. VIP tickets and all-access passes are available.
For more information, visit Miami Beach Pride
Photo courtesy Lincoln Road BID
