Miami Beach Pride returns for its 16th anniversary with events running from April 2 – April 14, presented by Love Spirit. What originally began as a parade down Ocean Drive has now transformed into programming spanning 12 days that celebrate the LGBTQ+ community. The festivities include lavish floats, a queer art showcase designed to support local artists, social justice night as the community faces increasing legislative attacks, celebrity guests of honor, live performances and much more. This year’s 2-day festival presented by Love Spirit has grown tremendously and promises to be the biggest and best iteration of Miami Beach Pride to date. To honor the journey of the LGBTQ+ community, the 2024 festival theme, Pride. Progress. Perseverance., will highlight our community’s past and celebrate a brighter collective future.
“With over 12 days of exciting events, there is truly something for everyone and we have maintained our commitment to keep much of our programming free for the community to be as inclusive as possible,” says Bruce Horwich, Chairman of Miami Beach Pride. “Growing from a 15,000-person event in 2009 to now being one of the most celebrated Prides in the country with more than 170,000 attendees from all over the world, our goal is to honor our community all while having the message of unwavering resilience and uniqueness on full display along Miami Beach.”
Events
Pride Flag Raising Ceremony at Miami Beach City Hall on April 4 at 6pm.
Pride Lights the Night Flip the Switch Event at Euclid Oval (600-700 block Lincoln Rd) on April 4 at 7:30pm.
‘In The Wyld’ – A Garden of Eve Preview Party at Gaythering on April 6 at 8pm.
Family Picnic at Pride Park on April 7 at 10am.
Pride Movie Night at Rooftop Cinema Club on April 7 at 6pm.
Queer Art Showcase at Moxy Hotel on April 8 at 6:30pm.
MDGLCC Spotlight Mega-Mixer on April 9 at 6pm.
Social Justice, Health & Wellness Evening at O Cinema on April 10 at 6pm.
VIP Beach Affair at Lummus Park hosted by Jessica Wild on April 12 at 7pm.
Miami Beach Pride 2-day Festival at Lummus Park happening on April 13 and 14, at 12pm.
Miami Beach Pride Parade on Ocean Drive will take place on April 14 at 12pm.
I had a chance to sit down Drag Race All Star Jessica Wild, who hosting and performing at the VIP Beach Affair for this exclusive Hotspots interview.
How has your life changed since you were on Drag Race Season 2?
I have been living my best life traveling the world and living my dream having a successful career as a drag queen. I have been doing tv music, etc.
After so many years (13) what made you come back to All Stars?
It was a difficult decision because drag was not the same as it was when I was originally on the show. But since social media took over it was important for me to put myself back on TV and all stars 8 was the perfect opportunity to showcase the new Jessica Wild.
How was the filming of all stars; was it like your first season?
It was very hard as it’s a lot of hours of work. We wake up super early and go to bed super late, and sometimes you must continue working in your hotel room. In addition, I made it to the end, so it was 6 weeks of no communication with anybody or no computer. The good thing was in all stars 8 there were many Latinos working behind the scenes so I felt much more supported and helped.
What was your favorite challenge on All Stars?
It was the Rusical as I love to dance and I love to sing, and its how I shine the most. However, the one I am the proudest of was the Roast as I was super scared of it and I was surprised how well I did.
How hard was it to keep the secret that you were on all stars and on how well you did?
I am good holding secrets. That’s part of the magic of Drag Race.
Since the show aired you have been traveling the world. Do you have a favorite location/city?
Everywhere I visit is magical and special, but I do love Mexico and Brazil. However, I have a good time everywhere and I a super grateful.
Are you excited about hosting and performing at Miami Beach Pride VIP Affair?
I cannot wait to celebrate pride in Miami especially because one of my favorite decades is the 80’s and this party is all about the 80’. I have an amazing show prepared!
Describe yourself in 3 words?
Humble, funny and wild.
What do you do for fun?
I love to play music as music makes me happy. Sometimes I just stay in my room dancing to music. It’s my own Zumba class. I also like to go out with my friends.
What does the future hold for Jessica Wild?
I have more goals to reach, and I hope to be healthy and keep doing what I am doing. I have a one woman show coming up and more music and theater. More tv is coming also.
For more information on Jessica Wild, follow her at Instagram.com/Jessicawild
Activations:
Pride Parade along Ocean Drive presented by CAN Community Health; On April 14th at Noon, chosen partners, organizations, and charities all over the country assemble to be a part of the Parade as thousands march in solidarity along Ocean Drive to celebrate their Pride. Floats, cheerleaders, drag queen performers and more can be seen marching together, a showcase of how Miami Beach uniquely stands for Pride.
Love Spirit Entertainment Stage: Featuring our headlining talent on the south side of the festival, there will be a variety of high-energy performances on Saturday beginning at Noon and Sunday beginning at 2pm.
HealthyMD Dance Stage: For all of our festival goers who come to dance, this is the place to be! With a stellar lineup of your favorite DJs, this stage will kick off on Saturday beginning at Noon and Sunday beginning at 2pm.
Capital One Cafe Community Stage; A stage featuring up-and-coming talent, so come find your new favorites!
Jack Daniel’s Garden of Eve Women’s Pavilion: This special tent for our ladies always has amazing music from an all-female lineup of DJs and is not to be missed!
Gilead Trans Pride Pavilion; A trans-inclusive space highlighting trans-centered exhibitors, trans performers and DJs.
The Lawn at the Calming Pavilion; A safe space for all differently abled attendees, youth and anyone who wants to take a break from the action, with tons of games and activities for all ages. This activation will also feature a brand-new exhibit featuring Pride in Florida.
Capital One Cafe Food Court; A wide selection of eight food vendors serving a variety of cuisine from around the world.
Jack Daniel’s Airstream Activation: Come take your insta-ready photos and enjoy an interactive tasting from one of the industry’s most recognizable brands.
Vizzy and Molson Coors Airstream Activation; For all of the beer and seltzer lovers, come and enjoy the latest flavors for that springtime sipping on the beach.
La Crema Inclusive Activation; Get the full La Crema Winery walkthrough experience and taste all the rich varietals and bubbles La Crema has to offer.
Billy Porter
Grand Marshals:
Lisa Rinna
June Diane Raphael
Additional Entertainers:
Kimberly Nichole, DJ Robbie Leslie, DJ Alex Acosta, DJ Gunn, DJ Mike Trotter
DJ Guy Scheiman (use pic and quote – highlight)
Sure, I’m beyond thrilled to be be back to Miami Beach Pride and headline their main dance stage on Sunday afternoon. I had a blast in 2021 and can’t wait to bring my big room beats this year.
DJ Sushiman (use pic and quote – highlight)
For more information visit: www.miamibeachpride.com.
