Winter has come hard this year in more ways than one—and none of them pleasant. It’s difficult not to feel disheartened by the cold winds blowing across what feels like an increasingly hostile world for the LGBTQ+ community. But we’re no strangers to tough times, and collectively, we know that nothing wards off a winter chill better than coming together with our chosen family for an epic party—especially one that raises money for a good cause!
Enter the Winter Party Festival—a week-long bonanza of huge events, cutting-edge music, and no-holds-barred fun spread across Miami and Miami Beach, which donates a healthy portion of their proceeds to LGBTQ+ causes across Florida. The festial features a world-class DJ roster that includes international talents like Chus, Karsten Sollors, and Tom Stephan, as well as newer up-and-coming LGBTQ+ talent, the festival is now in its 32nd year and welcomes over 10,000 attendees from around the globe annually. This year, from February 26–March 3, 2025, the festival will feature 12 massive events across 10 world-class venues.
An old quote—made famous in Sophie Ellis-Bextor’s lyrics—boldly declares, “If I can’t dance, I don’t want any part of your revolution.” The Winter Party Festival takes this to the next level with this year's rallying theme: Dance IS Revolution. So while you might not find murder on the dance floor, you will definitely find the stirrings of a revolution. Here’s why you should be part of it.
Parties that Matter
Being able to give and take is a winning trait in life, and through the mantra “Live Free. Play Hard. Give Back.” Winter Party Festival is all about partying while giving back to the community.
Founded in 1994, Winter Party is organized by the USA’s oldest national LGBTQ+ rights organization, the National LGBTQ Task Force. Every year, they donate a significant portion of the proceeds raised at Winter Party to advocacy groups in South Florida. Since 2005, the Task Force has given back more than $3.8 million to 100 LGBTQ+ community organizations across South Florida. So at Winter Party, you can relax, knowing your money is going where it’s needed as you show off your two-step shuffle sway on the dance floor.
World-Class Events with World-Class Names
Winter Party’s events are an eclectic mix, each a unique experience for you to slide into. As tickets can be purchased for individual events or as part of a party package, you’re free to pick and choose whatever fits your vibe.
These are just a few highlights from this year.
Ignite – Thursday, February 27 is a cool, high-energy party designed to create a “religious experience” through music. Expect an electrifying lineup featuring DJ Dangerous Rose, delivering her innovative blend of trap, techno, and house (or Trapono, as she calls it). Miguel Clark blends disco and house fusion for maximum groove, while Naim Zarzout skillfully mixes electronic, house, afro, and disco into one seductive formula.
Localise – Thursday, February 27 is a community-building and networking event presented by Avita Pharmacy and Prevention 305. Enjoy two-for-one drink specials, raffle giveaways, and fabulous energy from surprise hosts and drag performances. This event also includes an open conversation about sexual health and the pros and cons of PrEP as an effective tool for preventing the spread of HIV.
VIP Cocktail Reception – Friday, February 28 is a chance to rub shoulders with community leaders, celebrities, and influencers in a gorgeous outdoor setting. There will be an open bar, nibbles, special entertainment like drag shows, and, of course, plenty of cocktails. This year, Lisa Mercado will be honored for her invaluable contributions, including being the only female co-chair of Winter Party Festival.
Under One Sun – Saturday, March 1 brings the first of Winter Party’s signature daytime events back to the Sagamore pool in South Beach. Since it’s the first time since 2018, you can expect the energy to be high, with DJs Dawson and Deanne keeping the crowd dancing all day under the Miami sunshine. Book yourself a cabana to get the full luxury poolside experience.
Carnival – Saturday, March 1 is The Exclusive Fetish Party at Eagle Wilton Manors is Winter Party’s love letter to the kink community. Taking place in the legendary leather venue Eagle Wilton Manors—just a short taxi ride away—this sex-positive party invites you to don your leathers, harnesses, or jockstraps for an unforgettable night. DJ J Warren will be on deck, making the crowds sweat to his high-energy beats.
Beach Party – Sunday, March 2 is Miami’s premier celebration on the sun-kissed sands of Miami Beach. Even in winter, it would be rude not to hit the beach. In 2025, leading DJs Micky Friedmann and Erik Vilar will keep the sands shifting.
And this is just half of what’s on offer! There's also the Elevate T-Dance at Palace Rooftop Pool, Saturday Drag Brunch, and a host of nightclub events like Heat on the week’s roster.
Space for Everyone
Florida might seem like a hostile landscape right now, given the anti-LGBTQ+ rhetoric and harmful policies being slammed into place, but Winter Party will transform Miami into a queer oasis, where everyone under the LGBTQ+ umbrella is given complete freedom to express themselves—both on and off the dance floor.
The official hotel of Winter Party is the Royal Palm, an Art Deco masterpiece featuring luxurious rooms with beachside views, two swimming pools and a poolside bar, a 24-hour fitness center, and three on-site restaurants. Not to mention, South Beach is on your doorstep, and you’ll be just a short walk from most of Winter Party’s biggest events.
Join the Revolution. Live Free. Play Hard. Give Back.
With world-class music, breathtaking venues, and a mission that matters, Winter Party Festival is more than just a party—it’s a movement, where the revolution begins with a fierce bass drop.
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