Pop superstar Demi Lovato made a surprise appearance Friday night at the grand opening of The Tryst, a new luxury boutique hotel in Puerto Vallarta, Mexico, specifically catering to LGBTQ+ travelers. Not only did she make a performance but she also showed support for her LGBTQ+ fans at the drag brunch with one queen performing her hit song ‘Cool for The Smmer.’
The star-studded event drew a significant number of celebrities, underscoring the hotel’s anticipated role as a premier destination within the LGBTQ+ community.
Among the notable guests celebrating the launch were Jennifer Coolidge, Erika Jayne, Cynthia Bailey, Sonja Morgan, Antoni Porowski, Julia Fox, Laverne Cox, Chrishell Stause, Sam Asghari, TS Madison, Kate del Castillo, Matt Rogers, and Chris Appleton.
The festivities kicked off with a high-energy Red Carpet Opening Night Party, hosted by the charismatic actor and comedian Matt Rogers. Lovato, 32, made a stylish entrance, posing for photographers in chic shades and casual denim attire before taking to the stage. The Grammy-nominated artist treated the enthusiastic crowd to a performance of her 2015 summer anthem, “Cool for the Summer,” igniting a dance-filled atmosphere that permeated the evening. The musical backdrop for the night was expertly curated by the renowned DJ Leland, whose set kept the energy levels high throughout the celebration, as reported by Gayety.
View this post on Instagram
The Tryst is the brainchild of entrepreneur Tristan Schukraft, a prominent figure often playfully dubbed the “CEO of Everything Gay.” Schukraft envisions The Tryst as a haven for LGBTQ+ individuals seeking a luxurious and welcoming travel experience in Puerto Vallarta, a city already well-established as a global LGBTQ+ destination, as noted in Gayety’s extensive Puerto Vallarta LGBTQ+ Travel Guide. Schukraft reportedly has plans to expand The Tryst brand with additional locations in the future, signaling a commitment to creating more inclusive spaces for the LGBTQ+ community in the hospitality industry.
During the grand opening, Lovato eloquently spoke about the vital importance of dedicated LGBTQ+ spaces like The Tryst, emphasizing their significance in the current social and political climate. “These spaces feel essential right now,” Lovato stated, according to People.com. “Knowing that there’s a space where you are celebrated for exactly who you are… When we travel, we want to feel safe, seen, and celebrated, and chosen family are powerful.” Lovato’s heartfelt words resonated deeply with the attendees, highlighting the need for and appreciation of environments that prioritize inclusivity and acceptance.
View this post on Instagram
Adding her voice to the chorus of support was actress Jennifer Coolidge, a special guest at the grand opening. The “White Lotus” star, 63, echoed the sentiment that the LGBTQ+ community possesses a unique ability to celebrate and enjoy life. “I think gay men and gay women — they know how to have a good time,” Coolidge remarked.
The grand opening weekend was not confined to a single night of revelry. The celebrations continued with a diverse lineup of entertainment designed to showcase The Tryst’s commitment to providing a vibrant and inclusive environment. Saturday, April 26, featured performances by the talented singer VINCINT and captivating drag artists, alongside another dynamic DJ set. Shea Couleé, a celebrated drag performer, headlined a special drag brunch, adding a daytime flair to the weekend’s festivities, according to People.com’s ongoing coverage.
Tristan Schukraft and Jennifer Coolidge attend the opening night party at The Tryst Puerto Vallarta on April 25, 2025 in Puerto Vallarta, Mexico. (Photo by Presley Ann/Getty Images for Tryst Hotels)
These events served to highlight the core ethos of The Tryst: to offer luxurious accommodations, coupled with a rich array of entertainment and amenities tailored to the LGBTQ+ community. The hotel boasts features such as a stunning rooftop pool with panoramic views, gourmet dining options that cater to diverse palates, and a variety of entertainment choices, all meticulously curated to create a welcoming and affirming space for its guests.
In a direct message to her LGBTQ+ fanbase around the world, Lovato offered words of unwavering support and affirmation. “Please know you are loved, you are seen, and you are celebrated,” Lovato conveyed. “Pride is about celebrating exactly who you are, and of love exactly as you feel it.” Her powerful message resonated deeply with attendees and online fans alike, reinforcing the fundamental importance of acceptance, visibility, and celebration within the LGBTQ+ community.
As The Tryst officially opens its doors and continues to host events, it stands as a significant addition to Puerto Vallarta’s already thriving LGBTQ+ scene. The hotel represents more than just a place to stay; it embodies the power of inclusivity and the joy found in community, offering a luxurious and unequivocally welcoming destination for LGBTQ+ travelers from across the globe, as highlighted by local travel guides like Out and About Puerto Vallarta. The grand opening, headlined by Demi Lovato and attended by a host of supportive celebrities, marks a promising new chapter for LGBTQ+ tourism in this popular Mexican destination.
