On Wednesday January 13, Visit Lauderdale hosted its Annual Marketing Luncheon in the newly expanded Broward County Convention Center’s Atlantic Ballroom (the views are CRAZY), marking its most attended luncheon since 2019. The event provided industry partners and stakeholders with a detailed preview of the “Never Lose Your Splash” campaign and its activation across multiple channels throughout 2026. The event concluded with a call for continued partnership as Visit Lauderdale prepares to host IPW 2026 and advance future marketing initiatives designed to drive sustained visitation and long-term economic growth. This is an annual event I try not to miss as it attracts very influential people, and I learn so much about the coming years marketing plan for Lauderdale.
On Saturday, January 17th, there were 3 events. The first was My Hollywood Prides Pride 100 Brunch at the Doubletree Resort which honored Lisa Tuminello with the Trailblazer Ally Award and Spencer Battiest with the Trailblazer Award.
The second was the Gamma Mu Foundation celebration East 2026’s “An Evening at Palm Royale,” where glamor gives back at Richardson Park. The night starred from RuPaul’s Drag Race Season 17, Lucky Starzzz, Mesmerizing cabaret and burlesque performer Phoenix Hurtz and Zak Azoury, who captivated the audience with a vibrant fusion of modern pop, classic jazz and bossa nova.
The third was when Lantera, a South Florida–based nonprofit dedicated to mental health awareness and community connection, hosted the return of its popular winter fundraiser, Wilton Onesie Wonderland, which was a free-to-attend bar crawl for a night of fun, inclusion, and purpose. The evening began at Lit Bar, followed by stops at Spencer’s Corner Bar, Gym Bar, Tap That Ash, and a closing party at Hunters Nightclub. All this was done to raise money for this important organization!
On Friday, January 23, My Hollywood Pride 2026 held their VIP Kickoff party at the Seminole Hard Rock Hotel and Casino from 7-9pm. This was a night of love and unity featuring a spectacular Guitar Lighting Ceremony celebrating pride.
The very next day, Saturday, January 24th was when the main event for Hollywood Pride took place at Arts Park at Young Circle from 1 to 10pm and attracted thousands. They are proud to lead the way each year as the first Pride anywhere in the world — and that’s why they say Pride Starts Here! Congrats to Jeff, Tony and the entire My Hollywood Pride team on another successful year!
On Sunday January 25, Tony Lima (Sunserve’s CEO) celebrated his 52nd birthday with an Italian brunch at Salvo’s. A generous portion of the proceeds benefitted Sunserve’s programs and will be doubled by AHF. The packed restaurant event was hosted by Fay What?! with DJ Trevor Oldroyd spinning relaxing music and featured a high energy performance by Kelly Raspberry and back up dancers Rolly and Erick. We here at Hotspots Happening Out wish Tony a very happy birthday!
