Photo by Joaquin Gasca
Since its conception in 2009, Miami Beach Pride has grown exponentially, from about 15,000 in its first year to over 130,000 this year. The first U.S. Pride of the season, Miami Beach Pride 2015 certainly set the nation's bar high. Residents and out-of-towners descended on Ocean Drive for a three-day, family-friendly celebration of love and equality. Through clear skies, the sun sparkled off the ocean, illuminated Grand Marshal Mario Lopez’s dimples, and fueled days (and nights) of endless parties and events.
Photo by Stephen Lang
Things began Friday night with some Vapor Shark mainstage performances, headlined by our favorite "All-American Boy," Steve Grand. Performing hits off his new album, All-American Boy, Grand serenaded the crowd and paid tribute to the trans community, stressing the message of inclusivity and support so central to Pride.
Saturday morning began bright and early, with the first 5K Pride run, which drew approximately 200 contestants.
Photo by Stephen Lang
Mario Lopez then gave his press conference and, while he denied the thirsty crowd a glimpse of his abs, at the parade the next day he certainly got in the mood.
After a VIP reception at TD Bank, hosted by Miss Miami Beach Gay Pride 2015, Athena Dion, thousands lined up along the parade route.
Sunday’s parade saw 65 parade contingencies, 35 floats, and about 2,700 participants. Making their way down Ocean Drive, legendary drag superstars Lady Bunny and Latrice Royale were met with raucous applause, as was NCAA player Derrick Gordon, who was on the OutGames Miami 2017 float as one of three celebrity champions (or ambassadors).
Photo by Joaquin Gasca
Photo by Joaquin Gasca
Photo by Joaquin Gasca
After the parade finished its route, the masses converged in a massive street and beach party, with music blaring off every balcony, out from every tent, and more than 100 vendor stalls. Drag diva Elaine Lancaster emceed the day’s performances on the mainstage, which included Missy Meyakie Lepage, Nathalie La Rose, Wildchild World, Ivy Levan, DJ Tracy Young, and finished off with headliner Deborah Cox. Additional performances took place simultaneously on the TD Bank Stage and AHF Stage.
That evening, after a rousing fireworks display—set of personally by Ivan Cano, the executive director of Pride—crowds swarmed to iconic gay bars Palace and Twist, and kept the party going into Monday morning.
Now the largest free LGBT event of the year in Miami Beach, next year's Pride will run from April 8-10, 2016.
