The LGBTQ community in Orlando is gearing up for a vibrant June, with several events planned despite the announcement that GayDays Orlando has paused its activities for 2026. Longtime event organizers emphasize that while GayDays Inc. is stepping back, the celebrations during the first weekend of June will continue with enthusiasm and variety.
Ethan Suarez, the producer of One Magical Weekend, clarified the distinction between his event and GayDays. He expressed the ongoing confusion surrounding the two, stating, “We’ve been trying to communicate what’s going on for 20-plus years — that we are not the same party.” One Magical Weekend will include an array of gatherings, such as pool parties, dance events, and a drag brunch, with ticket sales already surpassing last year’s figures. Suarez noted, “Our host hotels are almost sold out,” further highlighting the event’s popularity.
In addition to One Magical Weekend, Alison Burgos, co-founder of Girls in Wonderland, is preparing for a four-day celebration that coincides with the June weekend. The event will take place at various venues along International Drive and feature creative themes like “Sapphic Safari” and “Space Cowboy.” Burgos is confident that attendees recognize the separate identities of the events, despite the recent announcements from GayDays.
The roots of the gay day phenomenon trace back to 1991, when a group of online friends wore red shirts to identify each other at the Magic Kingdom. The concept quickly gained traction, evolving into a series of unofficial gatherings that expanded beyond the theme park to include parties at local nightclubs and hotels. The GayDays Inc. website acknowledges that while the organization has played a significant role in the event’s history, the broader “gay days” experience extends well beyond its purview.
Burgos, who has organized events for the LGBTQ community for years, recalled her early experiences at Magic Kingdom. “It was that light-bulb, epiphany moment,” she said, reflecting on the community’s desire for safe spaces to celebrate. This year marks the 26th edition of Girls in Wonderland, and its organizers are prepared to continue fostering that sense of community.
The pause announced by GayDays is attributed to a loss of sponsorships and broader economic challenges. According to Josh Duke, co-owner of GayDays, the shift in sponsorship dynamics has affected various community events across the country. “Over the past few years, many organizations have taken a more conservative approach to sponsorships,” Duke explained.
Suarez echoed these sentiments, noting that two previous sponsors for One Magical Weekend had pulled out due to budget constraints. He also highlighted the impact of the current geopolitical climate, stating, “There is, every once in a while, in our comments, ‘Oh, well, we’re not going to Florida. Come to California, where it’s more liberal.’” Suarez emphasized the importance of standing firm in Florida and creating a supportive environment for the queer community.
Despite the challenges, Burgos remains optimistic about the relevance of events like One Magical Weekend and Girls in Wonderland. She remarked, “Now more than ever, things like these events are important, making sure we have safe spaces for the LGBT community to celebrate.”
This year also sees the introduction of the Pride Cup, organized by the KindRED Pride Foundation, featuring various athletic competitions. Burgos, who serves on the board of KindRED, expects over 1,000 athletes to participate, reflecting an evolving focus on inclusivity and engagement within the LGBTQ community.
As Orlando’s gay days continue to thrive, experts like Ed Salvato, a New York-based LGBTQ marketing specialist, note the need for events to adapt to remain relevant. “If you want to survive in this crowded, competitive marketplace, you have to keep inventing yourself,” he stated. He highlighted the importance of appealing to a broader demographic, noting that the modern LGBTQ community is diverse and family-oriented.
Salvato emphasized the historical significance of Orlando’s gay days, stating, “This is a very important historical event, but it’s also a relevant event.” The evolution of these gatherings reflects not only changing societal attitudes but also the ongoing commitment to creating inclusive spaces for celebration and community connection.
As Orlando prepares for this year’s festivities, the resilience and creativity of its LGBTQ organizers shine through. The events scheduled for June promise to deliver a sense of joy and unity, ensuring that the spirit of celebration remains alive in the face of challenges.
