Winter Party Festival, one of the most iconic celebrations of LGBTQ+ culture, returns to Miami Beach for its 32nd annual edition, scheduled to take place from February 26 to March 4, 2025. It’s a week-long festival hosted by LGBTQ Americans. The Task Force will bring together thousands of international participants to celebrate queer joy, unity, and the power of dance while raising vital funds for local and national LGBTQ+ organizations.
This year’s theme, “Dance is Revolution,” captures the essence of the festival’s timeless message of living free, playing hard, and giving back. Featuring more than a dozen events at 10 major venues in Miami and Miami Beach, the festival promises a high-energy mix of music, performance, and community engagement that is fundamental to queer culture. I am.
A long tradition of advocacy and celebration
Since its founding in 1994, Winter Party has been a pillar of the LGBTQ+ community, providing a safe and inclusive space for individuals to celebrate their identities. More than just a party, this festival raises vital funds that benefit LGBTQ+ causes. A majority of the proceeds from the Winter Party and National LGBTQ Task Force Gala will benefit the LGBTQ+ Equity Fund, a joint venture of the National LGBTQ Task Force, Our Fund Foundation, and the Miami Foundation.
This philanthropy has had a lasting impact on South Florida, with the task force contributing more than $3.8 million since 2005 and supporting more than 100 local organizations. These funds will help champion LGBTQ+ rights locally and nationally, with a focus on social justice efforts that impact marginalized communities.
Kiera Johnson, Chair of the National LGBTQ Task Force, expressed the importance of the Winter Party as both a celebration and a response to the challenges facing the LGBTQ+ community. “For those of you who have joined us in the past, you know that this week-long symphony of music and movement is part of what brings us together to celebrate, connect, and honor the joy that empowers us. You know that,” she said. “Florida has become a testing ground for harmful policies aimed at suppressing our existence, and the Winter Party has become more than just a celebration, it has become a declaration of resistance.”
Embrace the sun, feel the sea breeze, and dance together at Winter Party’s signature event, a beach party on the sands of South Beach!To the beats of the amazing Eric Villars and Mickey Friedman, Winter Experience the iconic joy of partying and a celebration of dance revolution.
World-class entertainment and attendees from around the world
The Winter Party Festival always attracts over 10,000 attendees from around the world, and the 2025 event promises to continue this tradition. Festival-goers can enjoy performances from some of the world’s top DJs, including Chus, Karsten Sollors and Tom Stephen, as well as an exciting line-up of fresh talent.
Jason Hellinger, co-chair of the Winter Party Festival, highlighted the evolution of the festival and its commitment to bringing world-class talent to the event. “We will be assembling a world-class DJ roster, including international talent and newcomers, to bring about major changes to our line-up,” he said. “We want all of our guests to feel the love our volunteers put into the festival as they dance with their chosen families. Get ready for a dance revolution.”
The Winter Party experience is known for its vibrant and welcoming atmosphere, with events held at some of Miami’s most prestigious venues. From intimate gatherings to large dance parties, the festival is designed to celebrate diversity and foster connection within the LGBTQ+ community.
We received your request and delivered it! Under One Sun is returning to South Beach for the first time since 2018 for a pool party!!! We welcome you to the pool deck at Sagamore South Beach for an afternoon filled with sensational music, movement, and Miami sunshine. I’m looking forward to spending time there. Get ready for a day full of Miami Beach’s best poolside vibes. Let’s go to the pool!
Key events and highlights in 2025
This year’s festival includes several exciting events, many of which feature the return of popular artists.
- localization: This free event, hosted by our healthcare partner Avita Pharmacy and Prevention 305, will be held on Thursday, February 27th and will provide a space for networking and community building.
- ignition: On the same day, Thursday, February 27th, Winter Party will collaborate with Midnight Service to host an event that combines the energy of dance with a “religious experience.” DJ Dangerous Rose will headline the night.
- VIP cocktail reception: On Friday, February 28, the National LGBTQ Task Force will honor community advocate Lisa Mercado at a VIP cocktail reception at the Standard Miami Beach. Mercado’s contributions to the Winter Party and work with Pridelines have made her a beloved figure in South Florida’s LGBTQ+ community.
- under one sun: This signature daytime event returns to Sagamore Pool on Saturday, March 1st, featuring DJs Dawson and Dean. This is the first time Under One Sun will be held in a pool since 2018.
- beach party: The iconic beach party returns to the sands of Miami Beach on Sunday, March 2, featuring DJs Mickey Friedman and Eric Villar. This year’s entrance will be located on 10th Street, two blocks south of the traditional entrance.
Sponsors and media partners
The Winter Party Festival is made possible through the support of various sponsors, including the Miami Beach Convention and Visitors Bureau, the Miami-Dade County Tourism Development Council, and other partners. Media sponsors for this event include Edge Media, equalpride, and Hotspots. Magazine, Boi Magazine, Funqtion, Get Out! Magazine, etc.
How to participate
Tickets for individual events and full festival passes are available for purchase now. Those interested in attending can make reservations through the festival’s official website. Press credentials are also available upon request for media covering the event.
As the LGBTQ+ community continues to face challenges, especially in states like Florida, the Winter Party Festival serves as an important reminder of the strength and resilience of queer culture. A blend of celebration and advocacy, this event continues to be a beacon of joy and activity.
For tickets, event details and press inquiries, please visit here. Winter Party Festival Website.
About the National LGBTQ Special Committee
The National LGBTQ Task Force is the leading organization dedicated to advancing full freedom, justice, and equality for LGBTQ+ individuals. By advocating for social change and mobilizing activists, the task force works to remove barriers faced by LGBTQ+ people in areas such as housing, employment, health care, and basic human rights. Through events like Winter Party, the Task Force continues to build a future where all individuals can truly live without fear of discrimination.
Source: Gayety – gayety.co
