GayDays has officially confirmed that the 2026 event will move forward as scheduled, June 4–8, following a brief planning pause earlier this month. Organizers announced a renewed event format designed to deliver a more immersive and community-focused experience, including exclusive use of the entire host hotel.
For 2026, all guest rooms, event spaces, and amenities will be reserved exclusively for GayDays attendees, creating a private environment where the LGBTQ+ community can gather, celebrate, and connect throughout the weekend.
“We took the time to make the right decision for our community and for the future of GayDays,” said Josh Duke, co-owner of GayDays.
“This year, the entire property will be dedicated to our guests, creating the immersive, adult-focused experience people have been asking for.”
All official programming will move forward as planned, including:
- Daytime pool parties and social events
- Nightly entertainment and DJ experiences
- The GayDays Vendor Expo and community marketplace
- Mr. GayDays and Miss GayDays Pageants
- VIP experiences and hosted activities
- The Red Room late-night environment
- Specialty entertainment and adult-themed programming
By hosting the entire event within a single, fully dedicated property, organizers say the 2026 format will create a more connected atmosphere and address feedback from previous years.
“Our goal was to bring the community back together under one roof,” said Charles Cantrell, co-owner and event partner. “This structure allows guests to stay where the action is and enjoy a welcoming space created specifically for them. It’s a more focused, more intentional GayDays experience.”
Organizers also confirmed that the longstanding tradition of Red Shirt Day at Walt Disney World on Saturday will continue as part of the GayDays weekend. While GayDays operates independently from Disney, thousands of guests are expected to participate in the tradition of visiting the parks wearing red.
The earlier planning pause allowed organizers time to evaluate options and secure a structure that supports both the guest experience and the long-term stability of the event. “We didn’t want to move forward unless we knew we could deliver the experience our community expects,” Cantrell added. “Now that everything is in place, our focus is on bringing people together and making 2026 a strong return.”
Founded in the early 1990s, GayDays is one of the longest-running LGBTQ+ gatherings in Central Florida, welcoming thousands of visitors each year for a weekend of connection, entertainment, and community.
Event details, reservations, and updates are available at: www.GayDays.com
