A short 30 minutes east of Tampa is Lakeland. On a Monday afternoon we didn’t expect much but WOW were we wrong! Our first stop was a late lunch early dinner at The Texas Longhorn just off the Florida Ave exit on I-4. There were 6 tables of blue hairs and 3 tables of gays. Of course we knew the gay guys, LOL. Next we were eager to check out Karma Bar & Lounge, located inside the Regal Grand Hotel on Memorial Blvd. This club is full of great surprises! We were greeted by new owner Jay and given a full tour. The club is located just off the private outside pool and adjacent to a very large convention room that has a gigantic stage perfect for pageants! The club has an upbeat atmosphere and great energy. At 5 in the afternoon on a Monday there was actually DJ Travis spinning! Rooms start at just $39, so why drink and drive? No trip to Lakeland is complete without paying homage to the Green Parrot now called Pulse Lakeland. Quick history: The Green Parrot is the 2nd oldest Gay Bar in Florida, the oldest Gay Bar in Florida is the KIKIKI but it has moved 3 times. The Oldest Gay bar in the same location with the same name is The Pro Shop in Clearwater. Anyway it is always a treat to stop at Pulse Lakeland. We were greeted by bartenders Dustin and Shaelah and friend Matt. The club was sparkling clean. The Lounge area, stage and outdoor patio had all been updated. With a great staff and club house feel it’s easy to why Pulse is so very popular. Both stops told us we should also check out the Tuesday GLBT Night at Alligator Alley. If you’re looking for fun, friendly people we suggest you definitely check out Lakeland.
Every week the crowds are getting bigger and bigger. This past Sunday there were huge crowds! It is like a big progressive party every Sunday, starting out with Gospel Drag Brunch at Hamburger Mary’s –the first show is at 1 p.m. After brunch it’s drinks at Centro Canteen, Cigars at King Corona, a movie at Centro Muvico 20 and shopping for the latest in swim wear at MC Film. Next, cocktails at Liquid Tampa, Bradley’s on 7th and the Judy B. Goode show at Liquid Ultra Lounge. The BIG GaYBOR T-DANCE kicks off at Barbarella’s then afterwards the crowd moves to the roof top of RISE Sundays @ Tabu, Liquid Tampa, Bradley’s on 7th, then New York New York Pizza! See you all in GaYBOR!
