ORlANDO — Is Florida’s gay community under siege politically — or ready for an upbeat, joyous celebration?
Depending on who you ask, it could be both. While the gay community has been angry and frustrated over the agenda of Gov. Ron DeSantis and the Republican Legislature, from the “Don’t say gay” education bill to requiring cities (Orlando included) to paint over its rainbow crosswalks, Lake Eola Park is ready to put the emphasis on something else: inclusion. Togetherness. Everybody is invited.
On Saturday, Oct. 18, Lake Eola Park in downtown Orlando will host Come Out With Pride 2025. This long-running Gay Pride bash aims to unite and celebrate not just the gay community, but its friends, supporters, family, loved one, and team builders.
“At its heart,” Come Out With Pride Orlando notes, “Pride is about more than celebration, it’s about creating inclusive spaces where everyone can feel seen, supported, and loved. Come Out with Pride is proud to champion that mission, not just on October 18, but throughout the year.”
What is the Come Out With Pride?
“Orlando, get ready to celebrate like never before!” the event’s organizers note. “Get your glitter, flags, and friends — because Come Out With Pride is back …. From sunrise to fireworks, the park comes alive with music, parades, performances, family fun, and pure community magic.”
Visitors to Lake Eola can expect a marketplace with plenty to buy (bring your charge and debit cards), food and drink vendors, a Family Spot and Sober Spot to relax in, and a Sonic Bloom Field for those ready to dance the night away.
“The beats won’t stop all day long,” organizers are pledging. “This is more than a festival — it’s a movement of love, unity, and Pride shining bright across Orlando! One day. One love. One Pride. Don’t miss the most unforgettable celebration of the year — Pride 2025!”
Is This A Political Event?
No — and yes. While Come Out With Pride is a community celebration with live entertainment, food, and music, politics seems likely to linger over this event – in more ways than one.
The most recent frustration for the city’s gay community has been the erasure of the rainbow crosswalk outside the former Pulse nightclub, a move that Mayor Buddy Dyer called a “cruel political act” and one roundly condemned by both LGBTQ+ advocates and community leaders.
First installed in 2017 as a memorial to the 49 victims of the 2016 Pulse nightclub mass shooting, the rainbow crosswalk was painted over this summer after the Florida Department of Transportation, with the support of DeSantis, issued updated state guidelines that prohibit pavement markings in public crosswalks.
Still, if the gay community’s frustration with the DeSantis administration seems likely to be in the air at the Come Out With Pride celebration, the gay community’s supporters are certain to have a stronger and louder presence.
State Rep. Anna Eskamani, D-Orlando, who is term-limited and running for mayor of Orlando in 2028, is urging her political supports to “march with us at Orlando Pride” and join in the celebration.
“Come Out With Pride Orlando is one of Central Florida’s most beloved celebrations of inclusion, equality, and community,” Eskamani noted in an email to supporters. “It’s a day where we come together to honor the courage of coming out, uplift LGBTQIA+ voices, and celebrate the vibrant diversity that makes Orlando shine.”
What is the Schedule for Come Out With Pride?
If you’re heading to Lake Eola Park next Saturday, here’s what to expect.
Festival Schedule:
Festival opens at noon with a SponsorWalk, marketplace, Family Spot, food vendors, and a Trans Pride & Sober Space.
1 p.m.: Trans Rally at Trans Pride, presented by Crew Health
2-7 p.m. SONIC BLOOM FIELD, presented by BlueLaLa Entertainment. “Feel the rhythm, unite with community, and celebrate Pride like never before!”
4 p.m.:The Most Colorful Parade
6:30 p.m.: Pride Rally & Awards Presentation
7–9:30 p.m. – Diva Stage, presented by Show Imaging, “featuring JORGEOUS, the unstoppable superstar from RuPaul’s Drag Race, alongside TS Madison, Drag Race judge, and local legend Anjelica Sanchez. Jaw-dropping drag and burlesque performances all evening!”
9:30 p.m.: Fireworks Grand Finale, presented by Delta, produced by BlueLaLa Entertainment with fireworks by Santore.
Let the fun begin!
Michael Freeman is an Orlando journalist, playwright and author of the terrifying book “Bloody Rabbit”. Contact him at Freelineorlando@gmail.com.
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