Major Anniversaries: GayDays’ 35th anniversary and 10th anniversary of Pulse mark 2026 Pride Month Events 

ORLANDO, Fla. – Orlando is home to one of the most inclusive communities in the country, welcoming travelers year-round with world-class attractions, vibrant neighborhoods and a diverse lineup of events that celebrate the LGBTQ+ community and the city’s colorful culture.  

This spring, the city’s Pride season kicks off with Pride Prom in April and continues into June with major festivals and musical performances, including the return of GayDays for its milestone 35th anniversary--one of the longest-running LGBTQ+ gatherings in Central Florida--along with Girls in Wonderland, One Magical Weekend and the Pride Cup. Together with Orlando’s thriving LGBTQ+-owned businesses and welcoming venues, these events provide a great starting point for travelers looking to experience one of the nation’s most gay-friendly destinations. 

This year also marks the 10th anniversary of the Pulse tragedy, a milestone that reflects Orlando’s enduring spirit and the community’s continued commitment to remembrance, unity and love.

Signature experiences include:  

  • Pride Prom – On April 17, travel back in time during the 5th annual Pride Prom for a Time Travelers Ball. Dress up in your favorite era and dance the night away at this reimagined Pride celebration. (21+ only) 

  • GayDays – Returns to Orlando for its milestone 35th anniversary on June 4–8 with larger-than-life celebrations and new experiences, including a comedy show and a game show. 

  • Girls in Wonderland – June 4–8, this high-energy weekend is filled with exciting parties and events that cater to women in the LGBTQ+ community, including comedy shows, pool parties and celebrity appearances. 

  • One Magical Weekend – This legendary weekend features 11 events hosted across multiple Walt Disney World® Resort hotels June 4–8, with a lineup of top music talent and exceptional experiences. 

  • The Pride Cup – Celebrate Pride and the spirit of competition during this annual multi-sport event that welcomes athletes of all levels, happening June 5–7. 

PULSE 10TH ANNIVERSARY EVENT 

  • CommUNITY Rainbow Run: Held June 6 in downtown Orlando, the annual 4.9K run begins at Orlando City Hall and finishes at Lake Eola Park, bringing thousands together to honor the 49 lives lost at Pulse while celebrating unity and resilience. 

  • City of Orlando Pulse Remembrance Ceremony: On June 12 at First United Methodist Church of Orlando, the City of Orlando hosts its annual ceremony honoring the 49 victims with a program of reflection, music, and the reading of names. 

BEYOND THE FESTIVAL: EXPLORE ORLANDO’S LGBTQ+ CULTURE 

Orlando’s warm spirit extends beyond the festivities. Visitors can experience thriving LGBTQ+-owned businesses with a variety of offerings: 

  • Southern Nights: Voted Orlando Weekly’s Best Gay Bar five years running, this high-energy nightclub in the trendy Milk District offers themed nights, drag performances throughout the week and sultry burlesque acts every Saturday, year-round.  

  • SAVOY Orlando: A nonstop party in the Ivanhoe Village district offering go-go dancers, drag shows, billiards, dancing and electrifying themed events.  

  • Anthem: the city’s only downtown gay nightclub is now open offering a safe space with a Miami-style lounge, sidewalk seating, exciting events and drag performances.  

  • The Outpost: an inclusive Tavern in Thornton Park District where you can enjoy all-inclusive drag shows or watch a game on the big screen complete with drinks and delicious bar food.  

  • Bites & Bubbles: A gay-owned restaurant and bar that showcases international cheese boards and shareable dishes under a Tuscan atmosphere. 

  • Se7en Bites: A MICHELIN Recommended favorite specializing in elevated Southern comfort food with a modern twist.  

 

About Visit Orlando    

Visit Orlando is The Official Tourism Association® for Orlando, the most visited destination in the United States, Theme Park Capital of the World® and No. 1 meeting destination in the country. A not-for-profit trade association that brands, markets and sells the Orlando destination globally, the organization represents more than 1,600 member companies comprising every segment of Central Florida’s tourism community. 

Visit Orlando connects consumers and business groups with all facets of Orlando’s travel community, whether for a vacation or meeting. Home to 15 of the world’s top theme parks and water parks — as well as nature and outdoor adventures, vibrant neighborhoods, a dynamic dining scene with Michelin-recognized restaurants, and a robust calendar of entertainment and sports events — Orlando is a diverse, welcoming and inclusive community for all travelers. Find more information at VisitOrlando.com, VisitOrlando.org or OrlandoMeeting.com. 

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