After its successful inaugural year in 2025, Winter Pride St. Pete returns, expanding into more venues and neighborhoods than before. The second edition of this event marks the continuation of a new St. Pete tradition and stands as a reminder that St. Pete is a welcoming place for LGBTQIA+ citizens and visitors.

This weeklong event runs February 15-22. The celebration begins with the Winter Pride Street Festival this Sunday, February 15, on Central Avenue and concludes with the Drag Race on Central Avenue on Sunday, February 22. Both take place in the Grand Central District. Last year’s Winter Pride Saint Pete saw 57,000 attendees, and this year promises to be even better.

The Street Festival kicks off the celebrations this Sunday as Central Avenue from 22nd St through 25th St will be filled with hundreds of vendors, a main stage with live performances, food trucks, and more entertainment.

Global Rainbow: We Rise in Light

One of the spectacles to take place throughout the week is the Global Rainbow, a large-scale rainbow laser installation that will decorate the St. Pete skyline for three consecutive nights (February 19-21). The lights, led by artist Yvette Mattern, will be projected from atop the Mari Jean Hotel on Central Avenue, and will be visible for up to 60 miles! The lights will serve as more than just a fascinating experience, but as a “symbol of visibility, resilience, and belonging,” organizers say.

David Fischer is the owner and operator of the Mari Jean Hotel and a board member of Winter Pride St. Pete. He has stated that he is proud to host the show throughout the installation.

“This project reflects the heart of St. Petersburg and the strength of its community,” Fischer said. “This project reflects the heart of St. Petersburg and the strength of its community.”

On Thursday evening at 5 pm, the installation will take effect. The public is invited to gather in front of Mari Jean Hotel (2349 Central Ave., St. Petersburg) to witness the sky come alive. 

There will be performances, gatherings, and signature events throughout the week, so make sure to check out the Winter Pride St. Petersburg website for updates and more information!