From an 80s ski lodge bash to an exciting “Drag Race” event, several celebrations will be taking place from Feb. 15-22.

ST. PETERSBURG, Fla. — St. Pete’s Winter Pride celebration is set to return for a second year, featuring highlights like drag race, street festivals and an 80s ski lodge bash.

Organizers say the overall event, which is from Feb. 15-22, aims to increase visibility, inspire others, promote equality and diversity, as well as build awareness and acceptance for all.

This year, the city’s skyline will be illuminated by a large-scale rainbow laser display from Feb. 19-21. The display, “Global Rainbow: We Rise in Light,” will be projected from atop the Mari Jean Hotel on Central Avenue and will be visible from 60 miles away.

Winter Pride said in a statement that last year’s removal of the iconic rainbow crosswalk on Central Avenue in St. Pete resonated deeply with the community.

“This is about more than one crosswalk,” said Rob Hall, executive director of Winter Pride Saint Pete. “It’s about the growing voices in Tallahassee and Washington that are actively trying to erase LGBTQIA+ people from public life. This is our response. We are choosing light over fear, visibility over silence, and love over erasure.”

Below is a schedule of events for the 2026 Winter Pride celebration in St. Pete.


Schedule of events


Sunday, Feb. 15

Opening Street FestivalWhat: This high-energy street festival will feature food trucks, more than 125 local vendors, pride history education and nonstop main-stage entertainment featuring local talent. Where: Central Avenue between 22nd and 25th streetsWhen: Noon-5 p.m.


Monday, Feb. 16

Kaleidoscope: A Colorful Evening of the ArtsWhat: Daphne Ferraro will host “Prismatic” — an original, multi-media drag experience that “celebrates the beauty, power and meaning of color.” It’ll feature breathtaking costumes, narration, visuals and the limitless creativity of local entertainers. Where: Free Fall Theatre — 6099 Central Ave.When: 7-9 p.m.


Tuesday, Feb. 17

Trans-n-DanceWhat: A night of liberating dance with expertly crafted cocktails, entertainment and non-stop music that keeps the energy going all night long. Where: The Ball Bar + Lounge — 49 24th Street NWhen: 7 p.m. to 2 a.m.


Wednesday, Feb. 18

One LoveWhat: A celebration of diverse cultures within the LGBTQIA+ community, featuring cultural performances, food and art from around the world. Where: Green Bench Brewing — 1133 Baum Ave. NWhen: 7 p.m. to 2 a.m.


Thursday, Feb. 19

Snow BunniesWhat: An 80s ski lodge bash featuring wild burlesque, snowy photo ops and cocktails. Where: Good Night John Boy — 16 2nd St. NWhen: 8 p.m. to 3 a.m.


Friday, Feb. 20

Winter Nights in Monte Carlo: 2026 Pelican BallWhat: Inspired by the elegance of Monte Carlo, this event features an open bar, immersive art experiences, live auction and philanthropic impact. Where: The Floridian Social — 687 Central Ave.When: 8-11 p.m.Pride in Plaid Polar PlungeWhat: A “blowout party” with a kilted dress code, dancing and a heated pool.Where: Cocktail & The Wet Spot — 2355 Central Ave.When: 10 p.m. to 3 a.m.


Saturday, Feb. 21

Dripping in Diamonds: Premier Circuit PartyWhat: Headliner DJ Eliad Cohen delivers high-energy beats for an electric party that will feature lights and nonstop movement.Where: Thirsty First — 505 Central Ave.When: 10 p.m. to 3 a.m.Still Dripping in Diamonds: Premier Party after the PartyWhat: Keep the party going after the main event. Alec Brian will be spinning the beats for an after-party experience.Where: Cocktail St. Pete — 2355 Central Ave.When: 3-7 a.m.


Sunday, Feb. 22

Drag RaceWhat: Featuring Jan Sport, drag teams compete for a $5,000 charity donation prize, alongside 20+ local vendors, food trucks, celebrity judges and a vintage car show.Where: 2800 block of Central AvenueWhen: 11 a.m. to 5 p.m.Afterglow: Closing Tea DanceWhat: Finish Winter Pride with dancing, drinks and incredible entertainment.Where: The Wet Spot — 2355 Central Ave.When: 5 p.m. to midnight