Renowned for its rich cultural heritage, pristine beaches, and vibrant seaside vibe, Fort Lauderdale has long been a landing spot for those seeking the good life along Florida's southern Atlantic Coast. In recent years, the city has emerged as a singular destination for the LGBTQ+ community. Welcoming and inclusive, the city boasts one of the country's largest LGBTQ+ populations, supported by countless businesses that cater to and are owned and operated by community members.
Given its wonderfully inclusive ethos, Fort Lauderdale hosts a handful of core events that celebrate the past, present, and future of the city's thriving LGBTQ+ community. Offering everything from festive parades to thought-provoking film festivals, the diverse array of events consistently showcases the area's inclusivity, creativity, and pride.
You can find it all in the We Can Help Network's guide to LGBTQ+ festivals and activities in Fort Lauderdale.
Annual festivals
The must-attend annual events on Fort Lauderdale's festival schedule are unique gatherings, each a celebration of the richness and diversity of the proud community who've found a welcome home in South Florida's LGBTQ+ capital.
Pride Fort Lauderdale
February 4, 9, & 10, 2024
Fort Lauderdale Beach
A multicultural celebration, Pride Fort Lauderdale also honors the struggles and triumphs of the LGBTQ+ community and serves as a platform for advocacy and community building. For more than 45 years, this annual event has been a spectacular display of unity, featuring a grand parade and an array of live performances. After producing its first-ever Pride of the Americas in 2023, Pride Fort Lauderdale is retooling its annual programming to better serve the LGBTQ+ community locally and beyond year-round. For 2024, Pride Fort Lauderdale is hosting a Wet Pool Party on Sunday, February 4, and then a two-day Pride on the Drive on Friday, February 9, and Saturday, February 10. The group's annual parade will return on February 15, 2025, bigger and better than ever.
Fort Lauderdale Beach
A multicultural celebration, Pride Fort Lauderdale also honors the struggles and triumphs of the LGBTQ+ community and serves as a platform for advocacy and community building. For more than 45 years, this annual event has been a spectacular display of unity, featuring a grand parade and an array of live performances. After producing its first-ever Pride of the Americas in 2023, Pride Fort Lauderdale is retooling its annual programming to better serve the LGBTQ+ community locally and beyond year-round. For 2024, Pride Fort Lauderdale is hosting a Wet Pool Party on Sunday, February 4, and then a two-day Pride on the Drive on Friday, February 9, and Saturday, February 10. The group's annual parade will return on February 15, 2025, bigger and better than ever.
Stonewall Pride Parade and Festival
June 15, 2024
Wilton Manors
Commemorating the historic Stonewall Riots at the Stonewall Inn in Greenwich Village in 1969, the Stonewall Pride Parade is a powerful reminder of the long journey toward equality for the LGBTQ+ community. Held in June, the heart of Pride Month, this event features a vibrant parade that winds through the streets of Wilton Manors — South Florida's flourishing "gayborhood" and hub for the region's LGBTQ+ community. The parade culminates in a festival celebrating the unwavering spirit of love and acceptance.
Wilton Manors
Commemorating the historic Stonewall Riots at the Stonewall Inn in Greenwich Village in 1969, the Stonewall Pride Parade is a powerful reminder of the long journey toward equality for the LGBTQ+ community. Held in June, the heart of Pride Month, this event features a vibrant parade that winds through the streets of Wilton Manors — South Florida's flourishing "gayborhood" and hub for the region's LGBTQ+ community. The parade culminates in a festival celebrating the unwavering spirit of love and acceptance.
Floatarama
Saturday, June 8, 2024
New River and Intracoastal Waterway
The buoyantly named Floatarama began as a stop-gap, one-off get together that substituted for pandemic-cancelled Pride events in 2020. As it prepares for its fifth anniversary, Floatarama is now an award-winning nonprofit organization whose signature flotilla is just one part of its expanding philanthropic endeavors. The unique procession, considered the country's largest aquatic Pride Parade, features a string of glamorously decked-out private boats sailing along the New River and Intracoastal Waterway. Along with bringing a splash of flamboyance and excitement to Fort Lauderdale's waterways, Floatarama has, to date, raised more than $150,000 for local and national LGBTQ+ causes.
New River and Intracoastal Waterway
The buoyantly named Floatarama began as a stop-gap, one-off get together that substituted for pandemic-cancelled Pride events in 2020. As it prepares for its fifth anniversary, Floatarama is now an award-winning nonprofit organization whose signature flotilla is just one part of its expanding philanthropic endeavors. The unique procession, considered the country's largest aquatic Pride Parade, features a string of glamorously decked-out private boats sailing along the New River and Intracoastal Waterway. Along with bringing a splash of flamboyance and excitement to Fort Lauderdale's waterways, Floatarama has, to date, raised more than $150,000 for local and national LGBTQ+ causes.
FlockFest
Saturday, July 6, 2024
Fort Lauderdale Beach
The most fun you'll have at the beach while in the warm, festive embrace of a flamingo float, FlockFest is another LGBTQ+ community event that started small but has since grown organically and taken on a life of its own. From 60 people and 30 floats back in 2015 to more than 800 floats and 1,500 ticketed attendees on Fort Lauderdale Beach (a few thousand more keep the party going on the adjacent beaches), Flock Fest turns the sandy shores into a canvas of camaraderie and celebration. In addition to the beach-based gathering, lauded for its chic, relaxed vibe, where attendees can bask in the sun, participate in beach games, and enjoy the company of friends and like-minded individuals, the team has branched out with sponsored events throughout the year and charitable giving over $137,000.
Fort Lauderdale Beach
The most fun you'll have at the beach while in the warm, festive embrace of a flamingo float, FlockFest is another LGBTQ+ community event that started small but has since grown organically and taken on a life of its own. From 60 people and 30 floats back in 2015 to more than 800 floats and 1,500 ticketed attendees on Fort Lauderdale Beach (a few thousand more keep the party going on the adjacent beaches), Flock Fest turns the sandy shores into a canvas of camaraderie and celebration. In addition to the beach-based gathering, lauded for its chic, relaxed vibe, where attendees can bask in the sun, participate in beach games, and enjoy the company of friends and like-minded individuals, the team has branched out with sponsored events throughout the year and charitable giving over $137,000.
The OUTshine Film Festival
October 17 - 27, 2024
The Classic Gateway Theatre, NSU Art Museum, Savor Cinema (2023 venues)
Catering to cinephiles and those who appreciate the creative output of LGBTQ+ writers, directors, actors, producers, and the essential behind-the-scenes talent, the OUTshine Film Festival, held annually in October, showcases LGBTQ+ cinema from around the globe. A platform for filmmakers to present stories that resonate with the experiences, challenges, and triumphs of the LGBTQ+ community, the six-day event is an opportunity to engage with the cinematic art form as it enlightens, entertains, and fosters a deeper understanding of diverse narratives. It's also the perfect blend of glamour and artistry for attendees, with exclusive screenings, gala events, and opportunities to mingle with filmmakers and actors. OUTshine's Miami Film Festival runs from April 18 - 28, 2024.
The Classic Gateway Theatre, NSU Art Museum, Savor Cinema (2023 venues)
Catering to cinephiles and those who appreciate the creative output of LGBTQ+ writers, directors, actors, producers, and the essential behind-the-scenes talent, the OUTshine Film Festival, held annually in October, showcases LGBTQ+ cinema from around the globe. A platform for filmmakers to present stories that resonate with the experiences, challenges, and triumphs of the LGBTQ+ community, the six-day event is an opportunity to engage with the cinematic art form as it enlightens, entertains, and fosters a deeper understanding of diverse narratives. It's also the perfect blend of glamour and artistry for attendees, with exclusive screenings, gala events, and opportunities to mingle with filmmakers and actors. OUTshine's Miami Film Festival runs from April 18 - 28, 2024.
Beyond the festivals
Outside of these remarkable events, Fort Lauderdale's LGBTQ+-friendly atmosphere extends to its dynamic dining and nightlife scene. The city boasts an array of gay bars, clubs, and restaurants that cater to diverse tastes and preferences. From gourmet dining experiences and boutique shopping on Las Olas Boulevard to the energetic dance floors of Wilton Manors, the city offers endless opportunities for enjoyment and socializing.
For those wanting a deeper connection to LGBTQ+ history and its evolution into the flourishing, close-knit community found in Fort Lauderdale, the Stonewall National Museum and Archives on Sunrise Boulevard and The Pride Center at Equality Park are worth a visit.
Interested in learning more about the LGBTQ+ capital of South Florida?
If you want more insight into Fort Lauderdale real estate or the best spots in Wilton Manors to seek out a home, contact the We Can Help Network today. Our team's extensive knowledge and expertise about the area's history and homes will help you find your perfect piece of paradise in one of the country's most inclusive locales.
