Watermark Out News Tampa Bay Living Out Loud Guide 2025

TAMPA BAY OUT LOUD

TAMPA BAY’S LGBTQ REAL

Dear LGBTQ+ Residents, Visitors, and Allies,

On behalf of the City of St. Petersburg, welcome to our inclusive community.

Here in St. Pete, we're committed to creating a space where everyone feels safe, valued, and empowered. Our city staff, residents, and businesses are dedicated to fostering a culture of inclusivity and celebrating the rich diversity that makes our community so special.

For more than a decade, St. Petersburg has consistently earned a perfect score on the Human Rights Campaign's Municipal Equality Index. This recognition is evidence to our ongoing efforts to ensure that LGBTQ+ individuals have equal access to all the opportunities and resources our city has to offer. We're proud to be a city of progress and acceptance, and we look forward to continuing to build upon this legacy as we host the Southeast's largest and most inclusive Pride celebration.

While you're here, we encourage you to explore all that St. Pete has to offer. From our world-class restaurants and art galleries to our stunning beaches and vibrant neighborhoods, there's something for everyone.

Thank you for being a part of our community. Together, we will continue to strive for a St. Petersburg that is a welcoming place where everyone can thrive.

Greetings:

Tampa, Florida is known globally for its diversity and inclusivity, celebrating all our citizens, businesses, and organizations for their impact within our city’s neighborhoods. We promote the contributions the members of the community make in adding to Tampa’s success as a forward-thinking city and in enhancing our economic growth, improving our region, advancing the arts and culture scene, and contributing to our distinctive heritage. Our unique and rich culture have fostered a strong inclusiveness that protects both residents and visitors from discrimination and harassment, including those within the LGBTQ community.

Tampa was one of the first cities in the region to have a domestic partnership registry and the City continues to be committed to social progress including actively supporting LGBTQ owned businesses through the City’s Equal Business Opportunity Program, and consistently receives the top score of 100 from the Human Rights Campaign Foundation’s Municipal Equity Index for our LGBTQ inclusive laws, policies, and services. Every year, Tampa Pride Day is proclaimed, and the entire city celebrates year-round with festivals, parades, sporting and cultural events, concerts, and more. This year we will celebrate more than a decade of Tampa Pride in our city and will look back at the ways Tampa has proudly supported individuality, and the contributions the members of the LGBTQ community have made in Tampa Bay.

Tampa will not lose sight of what is most important – doing the right thing. Our city never fails to come together through difficult times, and the community demonstrates its love for one another and sees our differences as strengths. We are fortunate to have many dedicated organizations such as Tampa Pride, Inc., the Tampa Bay LGBT Chamber, Metro Inclusive Health, and CAN Community Health that help keep diversity in the forefront.

Congratulations to Watermark Publishing Group on its 2025 Tampa Bay Living Out Loud Guide publication. This guide will provide Tampa Bay area residents and visitors with many wonderful highlights of the past decade and a preview of engaging and inclusive events to come, specifically tailored for the LGBTQ community.

Sincerely,

Jane Castor

RDining With Pride

Ask the Locals: Callen Jones

RYAN WILLIAMS-JENT

ealtor Callen Jones knows — and loves — Tampa Bay.

Jones focuses on inclusivity in their work, with over 75% of clients belonging to the LGBTQ+ community. That’s because they “truly believe in serving those who have been historically underserved.”

It’s something that extends to Jones’ work as president of TransNetwork, detailed on p. 29, and when they aren’t shedding a light on Tampa Bay’s inclusive real estate or events, they’re happy to enjoy some of its other comforts.

“Tampa Bay is a large geographic area and the food and dining options are just as big,” Jones says. “There are so many local spots with fun decor and trendy vibes coupled with restaurants that exude history and charm.” View a few of their favorites here.

FAVORITE LGBTQ+FRIENDLY RESTAURANTS:

Three come to mind. Doc Ford’s Rum Bar and Grille earned my respect after watching a manager and server beautifully handle a patron being homophonic to another patron and staff members. The Honu Restaurant is openly very inclusive and Catrina’s Tacos is LGBTQ+-owned with a focus on hosting our community for events.

Doc Ford’s Rum Bar and Grille 727-857-8118 | 610 2nd Ave. NE, St. Petersburg, FL 33701 | DocFords.com

The Honu Restaurant | 516 Grant St., Dunedin, FL 34698 | 727-333-7777

TheHonuRestaurant.com

Catrinas Tacos and Tequila Bar | 1611 N. Howard Ave., Tampa, FL 33607 813-898-8628

CatrinasTacosAndTequilas.com

FAVORITE PLACE FOR DINNER & DRINKS: On Swann has a great atmosphere, friendly staff and a menu that’s full of so many things to try! They have everything from truffle fries to short rib pasta with drinks that pair well for any occasion.

1501 W. Swann Ave., Tampa, FL 33606 813-251-0110 OnSwann.com

FAVORITE SWEET TOOTH SPOT: Revolution Ice Cream. It is never too cold for ice cream in Tampa Bay and with 100+ flavors, this is the perfect spot to try something new. Can’t decide? Go for the sampler and enjoy six flavors!

6701 N. Florida Ave., Tampa, FL 33604 813-513-5053 | RevIceCream.com

FAVORITE DINING DATE

NIGHT: The Pearl. This downtown Tampa restaurant is perfect for date night with great allergy-friendly practices. Their seafood also speaks for itself and even my second grader said their burger was the best she’s ever had.

823 Water St. C100, Tampa, FL 33602 813-709-7776 | ThePearlRestaurant. com

FAVORITE UNIQUE FLORIDA

MENU: Not only is the menu at Ulele unique, but so is the décor — including outdoor seating options I love. If you’ve ever wanted to try gator, now is your chance!

1810 N. Highland Ave., Tampa, FL 33602 | 813-999-4952 | Ulele.com

FAVORITE VENUE FOR FANCY

DINING: Whether you want an upscale brunch or a beautiful dinner, you won’t go wrong at Birch & Vine! The service is always 5-star and everything from appetizers to main courses never disappoints.

340 Beach Dr. NE, St. Petersburg, FL 33701 | 727-896-1080 TheBirchwood.com

FAVORITE LOCAL JOINT: Craft Kafe. Having a dedicated gluten free local spot with fabulous baked goods and delicious breakfast items is always worth the shout out! You won’t go wrong with the spinach and leek handpie or coffee cake muffin.

6653 Central Ave., St. Petersburg, FL 33710 | CraftKafe.com

FAVORITE BRUNCH: Social Roost. We love somewhere with weekday and weekend brunch! Come hungry because the chicken and waffles and Roost breakkie board will be calling your name.

150 1st Ave. N., St. Petersburg, FL 33701 | 727-202-6113 | EatAtSocialRoost.com

FAVORITE DINNER WITH A VIEW: Teak. The view from the top of the St Pete Pier is one you definitely want to catch at sunset. So many people think of beach water views but the easy ability to grab dinner on the Pier with such a great atmosphere is worth checking out.

800 2nd Ave. NE 4th Floor, St. Petersburg, FL 33701 | 727-513-8325 TeakStPete.com

DON’T

MISS…

BELLABRAVA

204 Beach Dr. NE, St. Petersburg, FL 33701 | 727-895-5515

BellaBravaStPete.com

BODEGA

1180 Central Ave., St. Petersburg, FL 33705 | 727-623-0942

EatBodega.com

MANGOSTEEN

656 Central Ave., St. Petersburg, FL 33701 | 727-954-3381

MangosteenFL.com

NEW YORK NEW YORK PIZZA

1512 E. 7th Ave., Tampa, FL 33605 813-248-1845 | NYNYPizzeria.com

NOBLE CRUST

8300 4th St. N., St. Petersburg, FL 33702 | 727-329-6041

Noble-Crust.com

RED MESA RESTAURANT

4912 4th St. N., St. Petersburg, FL 33703 | 727-527-8728

RedMesaRestaurant.com

RED MESA CANTINA

128 3rd St. S., St. Petersburg, FL 33701 727-896-8226

RedMesaCantina.com

THE TAP ROOM

421 4th Ave. N., St. Petersburg, FL 33701 | 727-873-7900

HollanderHotel.com

UPTOWN EATS

689-D Dr. MLK Jr. St. N., St. Petersburg, FL 33701 | 727-810-3287

UptownEatsStPete.com

FAVORITE RESTAURANT: I moved to Tampa 11 years ago as the first LGBTQ Coordinator at USF and Are Pitas has been my favorite restaurant since. It is hidden in a strip mall near USF but offers the most amazing combination of Venezuelan and Lebanese cuisine — I always need to get some of both.

1727 W. Fletcher Ave., Tampa, FL 33612 | 813-849-5050 | ArePitas.net

FAVORITE SEAFOOD DISH/ RESTAURANT: I feel like so many people think of fancy seafood restaurants, but I love a more laid back option with live music like you get at Hookin’ Ain’t Easy. You get amazing food and can show up as you are.

3660 22nd Ave. S., St. Petersburg, FL 33711 | 727-592-1388 Facebook.com/HAESeafood

FAVORITE VEGETARIAN DISH/RESTAURANT: Vegan sushi isn’t always easy to find and at House of Vegano, it is amazing! Just make sure you leave room for dessert here as they have so many good ones!

1990 Central Ave., St. Petersburg, FL 33712 | 727-506-8627

HouseOfVegano.com

FAVORITE COFFEE HOUSE: Buddy Brew. I love the consistency of having a local coffee shop with multiple locations so I can grab a drink I know I’ll love between appointments or meeting with a new client. The coffee is smooth and never tastes burnt unlike some other chains.

Locations throughout Tampa Bay BuddyBrew.com

FAVORITE GLOBAL CUISINE: Wat Mongkolrata Temple’s Sunday Morning Market. The food is so representative of culture and this market at the Temple is the perfect blend of authentic cuisine surrounded by culture unlike anywhere else in the Tampa Bay.

5306 Palm River Rd., Tampa, FL 33619 | 813-621-1669 WatTampa.com | uu | Dining

Nightlife of Pride

Ask the Locals: Veronica Foxx

RYAN WILLIAMS-JENT

Pensacola native Veronica Foxx moved to Tampa Bay in 2020, when even the pandemic couldn’t stop her from making her mark.

The full-time drag entertainer — voted Tampa Bay’s favorite by Watermark Out News readers in the 2025 WONDER Awards — is also a choreographer and on-call bartender. If that weren’t enough, she entertains the masses as a member of the Gay Men’s Chorus of Tampa Bay, with MAD Theatre of Tampa and more.

She strives to “be the best example of queer, Black excellence” in and out of drag, using her platform to break down barriers and advocate for all. She also just loves having fun, something Tampa Bay gives her plenty of opportunities to do.

“My favorite thing about Tampa Bay’s LGBTQ+ community is the joy that everyone has when we come together,” Foxx says. “Our nightlife is cultural and diverse … we have a space for you!” Check out some of the entertainer’s favorites here.

FAVORITE LGBTQ+ OR LGBTQ+-FRIENDLY BAR: Bradley’s on 7th has been a staple for me since moving to Tampa and is truly a melting pot of every type of individual.

1510 E. 7th Ave., Tampa, FL 33605 813-241-2723 | BradleysOn7th.com

FAVORITE LGBTQ+FRIENDLY EVENT NIGHT: Friday or Saturday Nights at Good Night John Boy in St. Petersburg are a VIBE! From the living room basement feel to the 40 oz. beers to the DJ spinning Donna Summer and other Disco hits on a light-up floor, it's a GOOD time!

16 2nd St. N., St. Petersburg, FL 33701 727-486-9467 | GoodnightJB.com

FAVORITE DRAG SHOW: Selfishly, the Drag Queen Brunches at Seminole Hard Rock Hotel & Casino Tampa and Drag Brunch at Haiku Tampa are so much fun!

Seminole Hard Rock Hotel & Casino Tampa | 5223 Orient Rd., Tampa, FL 33610 | 866-388-4263 | Casino. HardRock.com/Tampa

Haiku Tampa | 808 N. Franklin St., Tampa, FL 33602 | 813-644-5787 HaikuTampa.com

FAVORITE PLACE TO DANCE

THE NIGHT AWAY: Cocktail is a really fun place to get lost in the music. Either outside on the pool deck at The Wet Spot or inside on the dance floor. Both spaces provide a different groove that anyone can move to!

2355 Central Ave., St. Petersburg, FL 33713 | 727-592-1914 CocktailStPete. com

FAVORITE DATE NIGHT: Green Lemon is one of my staple spots that I go to all of the time. The food? Amazing. The margaritas? IMMACULATE!

915 S. Howard Ave., Tampa, FL 33606 813-868-5463 EatGreenLemon.com

FAVORITE PLACE FOR LIVE

MUSIC: I went to a concert at Crowbar in Ybor and it became

probably my favorite venue. It is a super intimate setting that no matter where you are, you have a great view of the stage and the artists are quite literally an arm’s reach away.

1812 N. 17th St. Tampa, FL 33605 813-241-8600 | CrowbarYbor.com

FAVORITE FANCY COCKTAIL BAR: Hands down, the Punch Room inside of The Edition in Downtown Tampa. Trust me. Look it up, try it out and you’ll understand why.

500 Channelside Dr., Tampa, FL 33602 | 813-221-4600 EditionHotels. com/Tampa

FAVORITE DIVE BAR: Uncle Fats Tavern! Don’t be deceived by the fact that it’s in a strip mall. The exterior may be a look a little rough but I’ve been going for years and they have the BEST chicken wings in Tampa. Hands down! Ask for Trish and tell her the tall, gay drag queen Nethaneel sent you!

8745 Temple Terrace Hwy, Temple Terrace, FL 33637 | 813-374-0030 UncleFatsTavernTampa.com

FAVORITE PLACE TO GRAB A BEER: The Independent! Aside from the relaxed atmosphere, it has a wide variety of beers and a really great food menu as well.

5016 N. Florida Ave., Tampa, FL 33603 | 813-341-4883 IndependentBarTampa.com

Curated from the collection of the Historical Society of Central Florida, in collaboration with individuals and organizations throughout the community, Orlando Collected marks the city’s 150th anniversary with the exhibition of 150 of some of the most fascinating and rarely seen items from Orlando’s history.

FAVORITE PLACE FOR A

STRONG DRINK: Hotel Bar in Downtown Tampa. Try their Espresso Martini with a Reposado Tequila!

200 N. Tampa St., Tampa, FL 33602 813-999-4080

HotelBarTampa.com

FAVORITE PLACE FOR DINNER AND A SHOW: I would start at Haiku Tampa for some amazing Sushi/Asian American Cuisine and end at the Straz Center to catch a Broadway musical that’s on tour.

Haiku Tampa | 808 N. Franklin St., Tampa, FL 33602 | 813-644-5787

HaikuTampa.com

Straz Center | 1010 N. Macinnes Pl., Tampa, FL | 813-229-7827

StrazCenter.org

FAVORITE BAR WITH A VIEW:

Salt Shack give a beach vibe without being covered in sand!

5415 W. Tyson Ave., Tampa, FL 33611 813-444-4569 | Salt-Shack.com

FAVORITE PLACE TO SIT BACK AND BE ENTERTAINED:

The Floridian Social offers a lot of different types of performances and has really good craft cocktails. That’s a place I know that I don’t have to worry about anything when I am there for entertainment.

687 Central Ave., St. Petersburg, FL 33701 | 727-322-4600

TheFloridianSocial.com

FAVORITE COCKTAIL: In true me fashion, I have three. So no matter where I am or what vibe, I have a drink that matches the occasion. In no particular order: A Cosmo (or Cosmopolitan if you’re feeling your Carrie Bradshaw fantasy), a Smoked Old Fashioned with Woodford Reserve (for a more relaxed/enjoy the moment while sipping on something strong vibe) or an Espresso Martini made with a Reposado Tequila (when you need a little lift to get your night started).

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Pride in Arts & Entertainment

Ask the Locals: Tamara Leigh

RYAN WILLIAMS-JENT

When visitors "think of vacationing in Florida, I don't know that they necessarily think of Tampa Bay but they should,” says Tamara Leigh, who moved to the region from New York five years ago.

“It's less scary politically than most of the state and between the water, the nightlife and the arts scene, it's really a great place to visit and live,” she continues. It’s something she works to make a reality both personally and professionally.

Leigh is the president of the Tampa Bay Black Lesbians, detailed on p. 29, and serves as LGBTQ+ committee chair for the St. Petersburg branch of the NAACP. She’s also the editor of Blaque/OUT Magazine and a DEI consultant with Blaque/OUT Equity & Inclusivity Architects.

“I really hope to highlight the experience of and be representative for those of us living in intersectional identities,” Leigh explains. “I also try to be the very best ally to communities that I'm not a part of but are fighting for survival right now, like the trans and immigrant communities.”

Leigh also loves to relax, when possible, with help from the region’s arts and entertainment scene. She shares some of her favorites here.

FAVORITE FANCY

NIGHT OUT: Pride & Passion at the Tampa Museum of Art, the venue’s annual LGBTQ+ fundraiser. Being from New York, I'm used to attending galas and balls but life is much more casual down here. It’s lovely to attend this event — some folks are in gowns, but some people, myself included, go over the top and wear something couture. It’s so much fun and the venue is also gorgeous.

120 W. Gasparilla Plaza, Tampa, FL 33602 813-274-8130 TampaMuseum.org

FAVORITE COMMUNITY

THEATER: Studio@620. The work that Artistic Executive Director Erica Sutherlin is doing there is inspiring.

620 1st Ave. S., St. Petersburg, FL 33701 727-895-6620 TheStudioAt620.org

FAVORITE OUTDOOR ENTERTAINMENT: Jannus Live is such a vibe. I've been to poppier shows there for Pride and saw rapper Wale for my birthday there last year. An outdoor venue that feels a little indoor for a show is just top tier. It has so much character and I love attending shows there.

200 1st Ave. N., Ste. 206, St. Petersburg, FL 33701 | 727-565-0550 JannusLive.com

FAVORITE VENUE FOR A MOVIE: CMX Cinemas Tyrone. I admit that the number reason why it’s my favorite is it’s by my house, but it’s also clean, comfortable and the loaded ranch waffle fries are life! You also can’t go wrong with a theater that has cocktails.

2998 Tyrone Blvd. N., St. Petersburg, FL 33710 | 727-209-1950 CMXCinemas.com

FAVORITE PLACE FOR DINNER AND A SHOW: Chocolate Sundays R&B Live by Curated Blaque Events last held at Bouzy. I love an R&B experience that's full of good people, great music and produced by Black folks.

1640 W. Snow Ave., Tampa, FL 33606 813-340-4470 | CuratedBlaque.com

FAVORITE VENUE FOR LIVE DANCE: A.Y.E. Team Soul Line Dancers events at any venue. They are so much fun. I’ve seen them at several different venues and events — it's so much fun to learn and dance with them or just watch them and their audience perform wherever they are.

Multiple venues | 813-210-6458 AboveYourExpectations.com

FAVORITE VENUE FOR A VARIETY OF MUSIC: Jannus Live, as mentioned above. I've seen so many different kinds of shows there that represent so many different genres of music, it will always be my pick. It's also a smaller venue that feels so much more intimate than an arena. I love that.

200 1st Ave. N., Ste. 206, St. Petersburg, FL 33701 | 727-565-0550 JannusLive.com

FAVORITE VENUE FOR LIVE ART: It has to be Studio@620 again. I love to be able to support their work and the shows they’re bringing in.

620 1st Ave. S., St. Petersburg, FL 33701 |727-895-6620 TheStudioAt620.org

FAVORITE CRAZY NIGHT

OUT: A night roaming Central Avenue in St. Petersburg. I don't know how crazy it is but just grabbing a drink, walking around and people watching is a good time. It gives very NOLA vibes and I love New Orleans.

Central Ave., St. Petersburg. GrandCentralDistrict.org

FAVORITE HANDS-ON ART CLASS AND FAVORITE GEEK

SPOT: I combined these into one because the answer is the same: Kitchen Table Literary Arts. My interpretation of "art" in this question would be writing. Kitchen Table is tucked away in Ybor and they offer the most incredible writing classes and resources as well as produce some incredible shows.

When I'm ready to be a student of the arts but also when I just want to go there to witness greatness happen and really soak in my poet, geekiest self, it's a great spot and resource. Plus their mission is to nurture the literary art of Black women and women of color and that absolutely speaks to my soul!!

1624 E. 7th Ave. Tampa, FL 33605 Kitchen-Table.org

FAVORITE HIDDEN A&E GEM:

First Friday St. Pete. This tradition has music, people, art and vendors, and I have to give a very honorable

mention to The Factory. It's so fun to wander through there and watch folks create.

First Friday St. Pete | Central Ave. between 2nd and 3rdd St., St. Petersburg | 727-492-2697

FirstFridayStPete.org

The Factory | 2606 Fairfield Ave. S., St. Petersburg, FL 33712 TheFactoryStPete.com

FAVORITE ANNUAL EVENT:

The Tampa Bay Black Lesbians’ Get Nude Pride Party, of course! I am of course biased on this one, but I think that the party we throw each year in partnership with St Pete Pride is just incredible.

It has been a sold-out event every single year and we choose a theme that celebrates Black Queer Culture and Sapphic fabulousness. It's such a beautiful night. In recent years we’ve celebrated Carnival with a Caribbean theme and a Black Queer New Orleans theme, complete with a beignet truck and second line with a live band to end the night. It doesn't get any better than that. Folks come in from all over the state for it every year.

St. Petersburg TampaBayBlackLesbians.org

AMERICAN STAGE

163 3rd St. N., St. Petersburg, FL 33701 727-823-7529

AmericanStage.org

FREEFALL THEATRE

6099 Central Ave., St. Petersburg, FL 33710 | 727-498-5205

freeFallTheatre.com

GREEN LIGHT CINEMA

221 2nd Ave. N., St. Petersburg,

MUSICAL LOVERS PACKAGE

Book by The Bengsons and Sarah Gancher

Music and Lyrics by The Bengsons

Music and Lyrics by STEPHEN SONDHEIM

Book by JAMES LAPINE

Originally Directed on Broadway by James Lapine Orchestrations by Jonathan Tunick

Saint Petersburg

1. Studios @ 5663

Noble Crust 3. Red Mesa Restaurant 4. CMX Cinemas 5. Craft Kafe 6. freeFall Theatre

7. Lucky Star Lounge

8. The Garage On Central

9. The Ball

10. Cocktail, The Wet Spot 11. The Factory 12. House of Vegano 13. Zubrick Magic Theatre

14. Bodega

15. Enigma 16. The Floridian Social

Mangosteen 18. Studio@620

Uptown Eats 20. American Stage

Green Light Cinema

Birch & Vine

23. Museum of Fine Arts 24. BellaBrava 25. Doc Ford’s Rum Bar and Grille 26. Teak 800 27. Jannus Live 28. Good Night John Boy

29. Social Roost

30. The James Museum of Western & Wildlife Art

31. Red Mesa Cantina 32. Mahaffey Theater

33. The Dali Museum

Clearwater/ Dunedin/Largo

A Destination Worth the Drive

Sarasota offers residents and visitors another region to Live Out Loud

RYAN WILLIAMS-JENT

From its beautiful beaches to decades of inclusive outreach, it’s clear why LGBTQ+ residents are proud to call Sarasota home and LGBTQ+ visitors have made it a treasured destination year-round.

Located around an hour south of the greater Tampa Bay region, Sarasota offers inclusive dining options, arts and entertainment offerings and a supportive nightlife. It’s also home to thriving LGBTQ+-focused community organizations and celebrations, with roots dating back decades.

That’s because Sarasota’s LGBTQ+ community has long understood the importance of coming together. Residents have leaned on one another to cultivate connection and rally resources in times of need and celebration.

One of its oldest organizations is ALSO Youth, which formed in 1992 to serve LGBTQ+ youth ages 13-24 in Sarasota County. It expanded to Manatee County in 2020, allowing the organization to provide events, programming and safe spaces for more youth than ever before.

It exists today to provide advocacy, leadership, support and outreach to LGBTQ+ youth and their allies with peer support services, educational programs, advocacy and referrals for gay, lesbian, bisexual, transgender, intersex and questioning youth ages 13 to 24.

The Fabulous Arts Foundation is another Sarasota staple. It’s served the LGBTQ+ community and its allies for over 15 years, originally as the Harvey Milk Festival, and was created to support and inspire residents and visitors through music, art, film, theatre and dance.

The nonprofit officially opened its first LGBTQ+ center earlier this year and produces signature events like the Be Fabulous Music & Arts Pride Fest and Fabulous Independent Film Festival.

Project Pride, which formed in 2019, has also left an undeniable mark in Sarasota. The nonprofit celebrates and unites the region’s diverse community by supporting LGBTQ+ individuals, businesses and organizations in a number of ways.

The nonprofit has created strategic partnerships to advocate for all, leading the group to absorb both Sarasota Pride and Manatee Pride. The former ran for over three decades while the latter served Manatee County for nearly 10 — and with a rainbow rebrand in 2025, they formed Gulfcoast Pride to serve Sarasota and beyond like never before.

These and other groups have made clear there’s no shortage of ways to showcase your Pride in Sarasota. The area has LGBTQ+-focused and friendly dining options, a thriving arts and entertainment scene and a nightlife unto itself.

Make sure to visit the region to experience all the ways you can Live Out Loud.

TPride 365

Tampa Bay celebrates LGBTQ+ Pride year-round

RYAN WILLIAMS-JENT

here’s no shortage of Pride in Tampa Bay. It’s been celebrated by locals and visitors for decades, a testament to the impact the LGBTQ+ community has had here. Watch future issues of Watermark Out News and visit WatermarkOutNews.com for the latest details about each outing.

COME OUT ST. PETE

St. Petersburg | ComeOUTStPete.org

Come OUT St. Pete has advocated for the acceptance of every sexual orientation and gender identity since 2017, encouraging a sense of community through events and activities. The organization’s main events are held in St. Petersburg in October near National Coming Out Day. The holiday has led COSP to envision a world that is unified around a culture that values freedom of expression, acceptance, love and equality for LGBTQ+ individuals.

DUNEDIN PRIDE

Dunedin | DunedinPride.com

Dunedin Pride launched in 2022 to honor the city’s growing LGBTQ+ community. The June event celebrates diversity and inclusion of the LGBTQ+ community in the city and features a range of events like a Pride Golf Cart Parade, Pride Festival and other educational events. It is organized by the Dunedin Pride Committee, a volunteer-led organization which promotes equality for all.

GULFPORT PRIDE

Gulfport | GulfportPride.com, GulfportPrideFlorida.com

Gulfport’s LGBTQ+ residents have led numerous celebrations over the years. Newer events include the Gulfport Peace, Love and Pride Fest held earlier each year, designed as “a celebration for everyone.” Gulfport Pride is held in June to celebrate the region’s LGBTQ+ community and allies with a vendor fair, march and more.

PASCO PRIDE

Pasco County PascoPrideFestival.com

The goal of Pasco Pride is to connect, build and strengthen the LGBTQ+ community in and around Pasco County. It was founded in 2018 and made history by becoming the area’s first festival celebrating the area’s growing LGBTQ population. It last returned in Sept. 2025.

POLK PRIDE

Lakeland | PolkPrideFL.com

Polk Pride was formed in 2015 to showcase the LGBTQ+ community living in and around Polk County and celebrated its landmark 10th year in 2025. The event aspires to be the premier platform for education and entertainment for the area’s LGBTQ+ community and is a venture of the Lakeland Youth Alliance. Their signature event is held in June.

PRIDE AT THE VILLAGE

Pinellas Park | PinellasArtsVillage. com

Pride at the Village launched in 2021 as the first official Pride celebration held in Pinellas Park. The celebration benefits Diversity Arts, which exists to support underserved youth and communities by providing safe environments, guidance and materials for creative self-discovery. It is held earlier in the calendar year.

RAINBOW ROOTS FESTIVAL

Lakeland | RoseDynastyFoundation. org

The Rose Dynasty Foundation will launch its Rainbow Roots Festival in October 2025 surrounding National Coming Out Day. A partnership with Pineapple Healthcare, the celebration will elevate LGBTQ+ history and artwork with vendors, entertainment and more. October was also chosen to acknowledge LGBTQ+ History Month.

ST PETE PRIDE

St. Petersburg | StPetePride.org

St Pete Pride is the Florida’s largest LGBTQ+ Pride and celebrated 23 years in 2025 with a month of festivities. It exists to strengthen St. Petersburg’s legacy of inclusion and diversity by providing a safe space for education, self-exploration and the celebration of the LGBTQ+ community and its allies. It was founded in St. Petersburg’s “gayborhood” and in recent years has expanded to welcome hundreds of thousands for events throughout the entire city.

TAMPA PRIDE

Tampa | TampaPride.org

Following an eight-year ban on celebrating Pride in Hillsborough County, Tampa Pride returned stronger than ever in 2015 and held its 11th celebration in 2025. Organizers announced afterwards that they would take a one-year hiatus in 2026, though local advocates are expected to produce an event in its place.

TIGLFF

Tampa Bay | TIGLFF.org

The Tampa Bay International Gay and Lesbian Film Festival has been a part of the region’s LGBTQ+ community for over three decades. It has entertained, empowered and enlightened audiences with compelling films by, for and/or about the LGBTQ+ community. In recent years they have also introduced monthly screenings, a Tampa Bay Transgender Film Festival and Queer in Color: A BIPOC Film Festival.

WINTER PRIDE

St. Petersburg | WinterPrideSaintPete.com

Billed as Florida’s “coolest LGBTQ+ celebration,” Winter Pride held its inaugural event in 2025 in partnership with the Grand Central District. Organizers presented a week’s worth of LGBTQ+-focused activities and events and will return for a follow-up in February 2026. Winter Pride formed their own nonprofit to support their efforts moving forward but will continue to partner with the Grand Central District, affectionately known as St. Petersburg’s LGBTQ+ neighborhood.

Community Care

Tampa Bay organizations offer their support

RYAN WILLIAMS-JENT

LGBTQ+ advocates and allies throughout Tampa Bay have long understood the importance of supporting one another, forming organizations dedicated to cultivating the community and more. Get to know some of the organizations working to make the region a warm and welcoming place for every resident and visitor here.

AIDS HEALTHCARE FOUNDATION

3404 26th Ave. S., St. Petersburg, Florida 33711 727-318-6880 | AIDSHealth.org

AHF provides advanced medical care designed specifically for over 1 million HIV-positive clients across the globe. Its St. Petersburg wellness center does so regardless of the ability to pay and is located in the organization’s Tampa Bay flagship facility in the Skyway Marina District. It houses AHF’s pharmacy and their fundraising thrift store Out of the Closet, which utilizes 96 cents of every dollar collected to fund programming and services benefiting those living with HIV, AIDS and/or homelessness. The model has existed and flourished for over 30 years.

CAN COMMUNITY HEALTH

Multiple locations | 727-498-4969

CANCommunityHealth.org

CAN Community Health has served the needs of the HIV community in Florida and beyond since 1991. The private, not-for-profit organization owns and operates over 30 medical clinics, with sites in Clearwater, New Port Richey, St. Petersburg and Tampa, a 30,000-square-foot headquarters. CAN’s mission is to inspire and contribute to the health and well-being of those affected by HIV, Hepatitis C and other sexually transmitted diseases. In 2025, the organization launched a charitable arm with the Susan Terry Foundation. The nonprofit is named after the late AIDS advocate and founder and will help those affected by HIV.

EMPATH PARTNERS IN CARE

Multiple locations | 727-328-3260 | MyEPIC.org

Empath Partners in Care is a member of Empath Health’s network of health care providers, which has supported patients challenged by chronic and advanced illnesses in Tampa Bay since 1977. It formed after the 2016 merger of the AIDS Service Association of Pinellas and the Tampa-based Francis House and currently offers a wide variety of services via its Clearwater, St. Petersburg and Tampa campuses. The organization participates in and regularly holds fundraisers to raise awareness for its mission. The organization also maintains EPIC Generations, programming designed to support LGBTQ+ elders.

EQUALITY FLORIDA

P.O. Box 13184, St. Petersburg | 813-870-3735

EQFL.org

Equality Florida is the state’s largest LGBTQ+focused civil rights organization. They have worked to change the political landscape in Florida since 1997, doing so through education, grassroots organizing, coalition building and political lobbying. They also hold annual events, including the Tampa and St. Pete galas, to raise awareness for their fight to ensure no one is discriminated against on their LGBTQ+ identity.

ICG FOUNDATION

Tampa Bay | ICGFDN.org

Inclusive Care Group launched its ICG Foundation in 2024, a nonprofit dedicated to improving healthcare access and empowering underserved communities. Its mission is to “ensure that every person — no matter their background — has the resources and support they need to thrive,” offering free HIV & STI testing, an initiative aimed at improving access to healthcare for transgender individuals and more. The organization regularly hosts events and participates in community initiatives while partnering with organizations like Bell Pharmacy, which forms strategic alliances to reduce prescription drug prices.

LAKELAND YOUTH ALLIANCE

P.O. Box 8978, Lakeland, Florida 33806

LakelandYouthAlliance.org

LYA is a nonprofit which provides a safe space for LGBTQ+ youth to gather to discuss issues and concerns that are important in their lives. It also allows them to meet other LGBTQ+ youth in its peer-based groups with members ranging from the ages of 13 to 24. It began as a chapter of the Orlando Youth Alliance in 2008 and seeks to empower LGBTQ+ youth to become advocates and leaders in the community while helping them navigate their lives.

LOVE THE GOLDEN RULE

Tampa Bay | 727-826-0700

LoveTheGoldenRule.com

Love the Golden Rule expanded in 2024 and is “committed to providing exceptional care to all communities.” The organization is inspired by its motto to be happy and help others as “a beacon of supportive, inclusive and compassionate healthcare” for the region. Its team is committed to providing exceptional care to all communities, regardless of ability to pay.

OUT ARTS & CULTURE

Tampa Bay | 727-893-1074

OUTArtsAndCulture.org

Formerly the LGBTQ Resource Center, OUT Arts & Culture launched in 2015 and began operating as an independent nonprofit in 2019 before rebranding in 2024. Today it educates, celebrates and inspires all who value a deeper understanding of those who are LGBTQ+ and is Pinellas County’s only nonprofit focused explicitly on LGBTQ+ arts and culture. The nonprofit holds signature events like ArtOUT, ReadOUT and more.

METRO INCLUSIVE HEALTH

Multiple locations | 727-321-3854

MetroTampaBay.org

Metro Inclusive Health has worked to meet the health and wellness needs of Tampa Bay for over 30 years, providing services that are relevant, supportive and represent the lifetime continuum of the diverse community they serve. In 2023, the organization announced their expansion to eight locations, with sites in Clearwater, New Port Richey, St. Petersburg and Tampa. They strive to ensure that all are welcome all year long.

PFLAG

Chapters throughout Tampa Bay | PFLAG.org

PFLAG is the nation’s largest organization dedicated to uniting LGBTQ+ people and their allies, with chapters throughout Tampa Bay. Leaders hold support groups and events to let LGBTQ+ individuals and their loved ones celebrate diversity and envision a society that embraces everyone. They believe that only with respect, dignity and equality for all will we reach our full potential as human beings. Learn more about Lakeland/Polk County’s chapter at PFLAGOfPolkCounty.org; Riverview’s at PFLAGRiverview.org, Safety Harbor’s at PFLAGSafetyHarbor.org; Tampa’s at PFLAGTampa. org and Wesley Chapel/Pasco’s at PFLAGWCPasco.org.

ROSE DYNASTY FOUNDATION

1253 W. Memorial Blvd., Lakeland | RoseDynastyFoundationInc.org

The Rose Dynasty Foundation exists to provide a safe, family-friendly atmosphere for all through mentoring, fundraising, fostering community and promoting awareness of resources. Its message is that people are “loved, accepted and wanted,” something they amplified by opening the Rose Dynasty Center in Lakeland in 2024 — the first such space in Polk County. It offers regular programming for members of the LGBTQ+ community and more.

TAMPA BAY BLACK LESBIANS

Tampa Bay | TampaBayBlackLesbians.org

Tampa Bay Black Lesbians formed as a social group in 2021, expanding to become a nonprofit in 2024. Its mission is to "empower, uplift and center the BIPOC LGBTQIA+ community," which it does by "fostering a supportive and inclusive environment where Black Queer Women can thrive through

community support and engagement." TBBL regularly hosts events, partnering with other nonprofits and advocates throughout the Tampa Bay region.

TAMPA BAY LGBT CHAMBER

Tampa Bay | 813-687-4993 | TampaBayLGBTChamber.org

For over 40 years, the Tampa Bay LGBT Chamber has sought to advance the common business interests, economic growth and equality in the workplace for LGBT and allied businesses, corporations and professional members. It provides educational and networking opportunities to engage with the community, representing hundreds of businesses, community groups and individuals in Hillsborough, Pinellas, Pasco, Manatee, Sarasota, Polk and Hernando counties. As an affiliate of the National LGBT Chamber of Commerce, it also provides LGBT Business Enterprise certification to businesses which are majority owned, managed, operated and controlled by LGBT individuals.

TRANSNETWORK

Tampa Bay | MyTransNetwork.org

TransNetwork launched in 2023 to build a community where trans and gender expansive people thrive as healthy, connected and supported members of society. The organization “works towards a future where everyone can live authentically and freely, regardless of their gender identity” through collaboration, education and activism, regularly hosting town halls, workshops and more to combat discrimination.

Business Directory

ARTS & ENTERTAINMENT: AMERICAN STAGE 727-823-7529

AmericanStage.org

SARASOTA BALLET

941-359-0099

SarasotaBallet.org

SARASOTA OPERA HOUSE

941-328-1300

SarasotaOpera.org

URBANITE THEATRE 941-321-1397

UrbaniteTheatr.com

ATTORNEY: SHEPPY LAW 727-767-9171

SheppyLaw.com

FOOD & DRINK: BELLABRAVA BellaBrava.com

STILLWATERS TAVERN StillwatersTavern.com

HEALTH & WELLNESS: CAN COMMUNITY HEALTH CANCommunityHealth.org

HOME IMPROVEMENT / MAINTENANCE: THE NAKED TAMPA HANDYMAN 904-717-1522 NakedTampaHandyMan.com

INSURANCE: BEST INSURANCE YET, INC. 239-694-6357 BestInsuranceYet.com

MUSEUM AND GALLERIES: ORANGE COUNTY REGIONAL HISTORY CENTER 407-836-8500 TheHistoryCenter.org

THE JAMES MUSEUM OF WESTERN & WILDLIFE ART 727-892-4200

TheJamesMuseum.org

PHOTOGRAPHY: DYLAN TODD PHOTGRAPHY 727-310-1212

DylanToddPhotography.com

REAL ESTATE: TED CISKE 727-385-9192 TedCiske.com

THE CURRIER GROUP –CASSANDRA CURRIER 813-476-0033 TheCurrierGroup.com

THE MCGUIRE HOME TEAM, ROB MCGUIRE & CHRIS HERBST WITH KELLER WILLIAMS SAINT PETE REALTY 727-278-9090 HireMcGuireRealEstate.com

SENIOR LIVING: MEASE LIFE 727-738-3000 ActsRetirement.org

SPORTS AND RECREATION: ST PETERSBURG SHUFFLEBOARD CLUB 727-822-2083 StPeteShuffle.com