WINTER PARTY CARES

Winter Party Festival is the most fun, sexy and friendly LGBTQ event in the world. In addition to coming together to celebrate as a community, we raise critical funds to continue the fight for full freedom, justice and equity for all. As producers of a world-renowned LGBTQ event, the National LGBTQ Task Force recognizes that we have a responsibility to help our community stay safe and healthy—not just at Winter Party, but in all aspects of life.

This year, like every year, we’re fortunate to partner with a number of health, education, social service, and harm-reduction organizations dedicated to the well-being of our community. They are listed at the bottom of the opposite page. We ask you to heed these important health and safety tips.

If you’re sexually active, protect yourself and your partner(s): Complimentary condoms, provided by Florida Health, and personal lube packets, sponsored by WET, will be distributed in your gift bags, at the Welcome Center, and throughout the Festival at various events.

Consider PrEP: Pre-Exposure Prophylaxis (PrEP) is for anyone who is sexually active and does not have HIV, taken as a preventive measure. Winter Party will have numerous partners on-site at various events that can provide additional information and referrals to those interested.

Educate yourself about STI’s: While the advent of PrEP has significantly cut the rates of new HIV infection in communities where it is widely used, it has also led to an increase in unprotected sex. PrEP can prevent the spread of HIV, but it does not protect against other Sexually Transmitted Infections (STI’s), such as syphilis, gonorrhea and hepatitis A, B and C, which are on the rise, and some of which are becoming increasingly resistant to antibiotic treatment. Condoms will help reduce your risks. Please play safe, protect yourself, and be aware of and talk about these risks with your sexual partners.

Know your status: Get tested! Rapid HIV testing takes only a few minutes and will be made available through a number of our partners.

Know your limits: If you drink alcohol, do so in moderation. On hot, sunny days, don’t forget to alternate alcohol with water. If you consume drugs, know what you’re taking and what risks are associated. Illegal drug use is strictly prohibited at Winter Party, but we also know that we cannot control what people do in private. Educate yourself about the effects and unique risks associated with various drugs, as well as elevated risks of mixing substances. Be aware that not all drugs are created equal; some carry much greater risks than others. Crystal meth is one of the most physically addictive and destructive drugs ever known. If you use meth, or are thinking about trying it, we urge you to reconsider. Visit MethProject.org for additional details and support.

Limit sun exposure: It might sound cliché, but don’t forget to pack your sunscreen, lip balm, hats and sunglasses.The Miami sun can be scorching! Wear sunscreen and drink plenty of water to stay hydrated.

Look out for each other: If your friend appears to be excessively buzzed, don’t leave them alone. We have medical staff on call at every event. If you feel sick, dizzy, faint, or otherwise need help, or if you see someone who does, look for the nearest staffer on radio, who will help you find the professional assistance you need. Our medical services partners are here to help.

We love you—and we want you to stay happy and healthy!