The south Florida leather community is gearing up (literally) for the largest annual leather event in the region. The Leather Masked Ball has been the premiere annual dance party and charity event of south Florida’s leather community since 2006. In this 4th year the momentum keeps building toward the day after Thanksgiving, Friday, November 27th, when the event returns to Purgatory on Marina Mile Road (State Road 84) just east of I-95.
The south Florida leather community is gearing up (literally) for the largest annual leather event in the region. The Leather Masked Ball has been the premiere annual dance party and charity event of south Florida’s leather community since 2006. In this 4th year the momentum keeps building toward the day after Thanksgiving, Friday, November 27th, when the event returns to Purgatory on Marina Mile Road (State Road 84) just east of I-95.
Celebrated Toronto DJ Neill MacLeod (Black and Blue Ball-Montreal) promises to energize the expected 900+ partygoers in the main room. DJ legend Robbie Leslie will play in the VIP Lounge where corporate sponsors and VIP ticket holders will enjoy some light food and special entertainment. A silent auction featuring donations from area businesses traditionally stirs up some competitive shopping demons bidding on a treasure trove of gift baskets, art pieces and services.
In addition, there is a large outdoor space with a vendor mart and an event photographer providing photo shoots for attendees to show off their leathers.
Partygoers with no leather will have an excuse to get some gear or they can wear one of the Leather Masked Ball t-shirts and fit right in. The event is welcoming to both hard-core leather men as well as those just a little leather curious. And no, a mask is not required.
For the first time, TLMB has teamed up with Courtyard by Marriott to provide a host hotel with a rate of $99 night for those who book through the event’s web site, LeatherMaskedBall.org. All are welcome. You’ll enjoy great music, energy and entertainment. You’ll be surrounded by some of the hottest leather men on the planet and helping raise money for two worthy charities. And you’ll have fun.
Over the years TLMB has benefitted Care Resource, Stonewall Library and Archive, Tuesday’s Angels and the Leather Archive and Museum, making contributions as high as $10,000 to individual charities. This year’s beneficiaries are Equality Florida to recognize their leadership in advancing rights of GLBT people in our state and the Leather Archives and Museum for their work preserving our culture and heritage.
The Leather Masked Ball is produced by a group of dedicated volunteers, The Lambda Men’s Brotherhood Inc. The organization is recognized as a charitable organization under section 501 (c) 3 of the IRS Code and is licensed to raise money in the state of Florida. There are no salaries and very minimal expenses. Several fundraisers throughout the year, including a leather auction/BBQ and pool parties provide money to stage this huge event. All the funds raised go to charity.
The Leather Masked Ball is the brainchild of local community pillars, Eric Lawrence and his husband, Ira C. Smith. Smith’s internationally renowned erotic artwork is featured prominently in the group’s trademarked logo and promotional materials.
Lambda Men’s Brotherhood is working on expanding The Leather Masked Ball into a complete weekend of leather events to draw even more out of state attendees who already flock to Fort Lauderdale for its hot leather scene.
Find out more on their website, LeatherMaskedBall.org
