The Winter Party Festival, one of the most iconic celebrations of LGBTQ+ culture, will return to Miami Beach for its 32nd annual edition, scheduled to take place from February 26 to March 4, 2025. The week-long festival, organized by the National LGBTQ Task Force, brings together thousands of international attendees to raise vital funds for local and national LGBTQ+ organizations while celebrating queer joy, unity, and the power of dance.
This year’s theme, “Dance is Revolution,” captures the essence of the festival’s enduring message — to live freely, play hard, and give back. With over 12 events at 10 premier venues across Miami and Miami Beach, the festival promises a high-energy mix of music, performances, and community engagement that has made it a cornerstone of queer culture.
A Longstanding Tradition of Advocacy and Celebration
Since its founding in 1994, Winter Party has become a pillar of the LGBTQ+ community, providing a safe and inclusive space for individuals to celebrate their identities. More than just a party, the festival raises critical funds that benefit LGBTQ+ causes. A significant portion of the proceeds from Winter Party, as well as the National LGBTQ Task Force Gala, goes to the LGBTQ+ Equity Fund, a collaboration between the National LGBTQ Task Force, Our Fund Foundation, and The Miami Foundation.
This philanthropic effort has had a lasting impact in South Florida, with the Task Force contributing over $3.8 million since 2005, supporting more than 100 community organizations. These funds help advocate for LGBTQ+ rights locally and nationally, with a focus on social justice initiatives that impact marginalized communities.
Kierra Johnson, President of the National LGBTQ Task Force, expressed the importance of Winter Party as both a celebration and a response to the challenges facing the LGBTQ+ community. “For those who’ve joined us before, you know this week-long symphony of music and movement is part of what unites us to celebrate, connect, and honor the joy that fuels our strength,” she said. “Florida has become a testing ground for harmful policies aimed at suppressing our existence, making Winter Party not just a celebration but a declaration of resistance.”
Embrace the sun, feel the ocean breeze, and dance with us at Winter Party’s flagship event: The Beach Party on the Sands of South Beach! Come experience Winter Party’s iconic celebration of joy and dance revolution with beats by the incredible Erik Vilar and Micky Friedmann.
World-Class Entertainment and Global Attendance
The Winter Party Festival consistently attracts over 10,000 attendees from around the world, and the 2025 event promises to continue this tradition. Festivalgoers will enjoy performances from some of the world’s top DJs, including Chus, Karsten Sollors, and Tom Stephen, as well as an exciting lineup of fresh talent.
Jason Hellinger, Winter Party Festival Co-Chair, highlighted the festival’s evolution and commitment to bringing world-class talent to the event. “We’re bringing a world-class DJ roster, including international talent and fresh faces to shake up the lineup,” he said. “We want all of our guests to feel the love our volunteers put into the festival while dancing alongside your chosen family. Prepare for a dance revolution.”
The Winter Party experience is known for its vibrant, welcoming atmosphere, with events held at some of Miami’s most renowned venues. From intimate gatherings to large-scale dance parties, the festival is designed to celebrate diversity and foster connections within the LGBTQ+ community.
You asked for it and we delivered! Under One Sun is returning to South Beach as a Pool Party for the first time since 2018!!! We can’t wait to welcome you to the Sagamore South Beach pool deck for an afternoon of sensational music, movement, and Miami sunshine. Get ready for a day filled with the best poolside vibes on Miami Beach. Let’s go down to the Pool!
Key Events and Highlights for 2025
This year’s festival includes several exciting events, many of which are returning favorites.
- LOCALIZE: Sponsored by health partners Avita Pharmacy and Prevention 305, this free event on Thursday, February 27, offers a space for networking and community building.
- Ignite: On the same day, Thursday, February 27, Winter Party will team up with Midnight Service for an event that merges the energy of dance with a “religious experience.” DJ Dangerous Rose will headline the evening.
- VIP Cocktail Reception: On Friday, February 28, the National LGBTQ Task Force will honor community advocate Lisa Mercado at the VIP Cocktail Reception at The Standard Miami Beach. Mercado’s contributions to Winter Party, as well as her work with Pridelines, have made her a beloved figure in the South Florida LGBTQ+ community.
- Under One Sun: This signature daytime event, returning to the Sagamore pool on Saturday, March 1, will feature DJs Dawson and Deanne. This will be the first time Under One Sun is held at a pool since 2018.
- Beach Party: On Sunday, March 2, the iconic Beach Party will return to the sands of Miami Beach, featuring DJs Micky Friedmann and Erik Vilar. This year, the entrance will be located two blocks south of the traditional entrance, at 10th Street.
Sponsors and Media Partners
The Winter Party Festival is made possible through the support of various sponsors, including the Miami Beach Visitor & Convention Authority, Miami-Dade County Tourism Development Council, and additional partners. Media sponsors for the event include Edge Media, equalpride, Hotspots! Magazine, Boi Magazine, Funqtion, and Get Out! Magazine, among others.
How to Get Involved
Tickets for individual events and full festival passes are available for purchase now. Those interested in attending can reserve their spots through the festival’s official website. Press credentials are also available upon request for media covering the event.
As the LGBTQ+ community continues to face challenges, particularly in states like Florida, the Winter Party Festival serves as a vital reminder of the strength and resilience of queer culture. With its blend of celebration and advocacy, the event remains a beacon of joy and activism.
For more information on tickets, event details, and press inquiries, visit Winter Party Festival website.
About the National LGBTQ Task Force
The National LGBTQ Task Force is a leading organization dedicated to advancing full freedom, justice, and equality for LGBTQ+ individuals. By advocating for social change and mobilizing activists, the Task Force works to eliminate barriers facing LGBTQ+ people in areas like housing, employment, healthcare, and basic human rights. Through events like Winter Party, the Task Force continues to build a future where all individuals can live authentically and without fear of discrimination.
