Wilton Manors Kicks Off 25th Stonewall Pride Parade

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The vibrant city of Wilton Manors is gearing up for its Stonewall Pride Parade and Festival this weekend, marking the 25th anniversary of this iconic event. Held annually to commemorate the 1969 Stonewall Riots in New York City, this year’s festivities promise to be one of the most exciting celebrations yet.

Stonewall Pride Parade and Festival
Photo via Stone Wall Pride

A Historic Celebration in the Heart of Florida’s ‘Gayborhood’

Set to take place Saturday and Sunday, the Stonewall Pride events will span across seven stages featuring music, performances, and live entertainment in the heart of the city’s LGBTQ+ community. With a focus on unity and resilience, the celebration is expected to draw over 50,000 attendees.

According to event organizer Jeff Sterling, the festival is a massive undertaking, with an estimated $1 million budget. Attendees can look forward to a full day of fun, food, and entertainment. The events will run from 3 to 11 p.m. on Wilton Manors Drive, with the main stage located at Northeast Sixth Avenue.

Glow Night Parade and Community Involvement

One of the main attractions will be the Glow Night Parade starting at 8 p.m. on Saturday. The parade, which brings together hundreds of vibrant floats, performers, and local residents, is a true highlight of the weekend.

“It’s all about our unity,” says Jameer Baptiste, one of the key organizers. “We’re coming together and showcasing that we are resilient.”

Recognizing Pride Leaders

This year’s Grand Marshals include a prestigious list of figures who have made significant contributions to the LGBTQ+ community. Velvet Lenore, an iconic drag queen; George Kessinger, the founder of the event; Tristan Schukraft, founder of the MISTR HIV telehealth platform; and Kurt Kelly and Stacy Lentz, owners of The Stonewall Inn and founders of the Stonewall Inn Gives Back Initiative, will be honored for their advocacy and dedication.

Ticket Information and Event Details

The festival will offer general admission tickets at $10 in advance or $13 at the gate for attendees aged 12 and older. For those seeking a more exclusive experience, the VIP tent ticket costs $125. Meanwhile, VIP Private Club access is $250.

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