Watermark's Tampa Bay Living With Pride Guide 2023

TAMPA BAY WITH PRIDE

All Are Welcome Here

EPIC’s (Empath Partners in Care) Sexual Health Centers provide comprehensive sexual health and wellness care for anyone needing it.

Services include:

• Rapid STI testing Hepatitis C, trichomoniasis (Trich), HPV (genital warts), syphilis, herpes, gonorrhea, chlamydia and HIV

• In-house treatment and expedited partner treatment

• PrEP and PEP medications and education

• Pregnancy testing and referral, Plan B

• Partner notification services

• Birth control and prophylactics

• Educational workshops and services on LGBTQ+ health and safer sex

4703 N. Florida Ave. Tampa, FL 33603 (813) 237-3066

empath

300 49th St. South St. Petersburg, FL 33707 (727) 328-6420

EPIC SEXUAL HEALTH CENTER

ifYouSex.org

Dear Proud LGBTQ+ residents, visitors and allies, On behalf of the residents of St. Petersburg, Welcome!

Inclusive Progress is one of the guiding principles of my administration. City staff, residents, and businesses all work with intention to make inclusivity a cornerstone of our great city. I am proud St. Pete is a place where diversity is embraced, celebrated and am honored to continue our city’s proud tradition of supporting our LGBTQ+ community.

For the last nine years, the City of St. Petersburg has received a perfect score on the Human Rights Campaign Municipal Equality Index for supporting LGBTQ+ people who live and work in our community. We look forward to meeting that standard in the future and continuing to host the largest, most diverse, and most inclusive Pride Parade in the Southeast!

While you are here, please enjoy our world-class culinary scene, visit one of the many museums and galleries, support our amazing local businesses, walk along the waterfront, listen to some local music and feel the vibrant spirit that is St. Pete — all while knowing you are embraced no matter what the color of your skin, how you identify, what you wear, or who you love.

Thank you for choosing St. Pete and I hope you enjoy your stay.

We Are St. Pete!

Thank you,

Kenneth T. Welch Mayor

Greetings:

Tampa, Florida is known globally as a diverse and inclusive community, celebrating all our citizens, businesses, and organizations for their impact within our city’s neighborhoods, and we promote the contributions the members of the community make in adding to Tampa’s success as a forward-thinking city and in enhancing our economic growth, improving our region, advancing the arts and culture scene, and contributing to our distinctive heritage. Our unique and rich culture have fostered a strong inclusiveness that protects both residents and visitors from discrimination and harassment, including those within the LGBTQ community.

Tampa was one of the first cities in the region to have a domestic partnership registry and the City continues to be committed to social progress including actively supporting LGBTQ owned businesses through the City’s Equal Business Opportunity Program, and Tampa consistently receives the top score of 100 from the Human Rights Campaign Foundation’s Municipal Equity Index for our LGBTQ inclusive laws, policies, and services. Every year, Tampa Pride Day is proclaimed, and the entire city celebrates year-round with community festivals, parades, sporting and cultural events, concerts, and more. Tampa proudly supports individuality, and by partnering with others, we promote the contributions the members of the LGBTQ community make in adding to Tampa’s success as a diverse city and appreciate their impact to our economic growth, neighborhood improvement, advancing the arts and culture scene, and adding to our proud heritage.

Tampa will not lose sight of what is most important – doing the right thing. Despite recent national legislations that seek to undermine LGBTQ support, our city never fails to come together through difficult times, and the community demonstrates its love for one another and sees our differences as strengths. We are fortunate to have many dedicated organizations such as Tampa Pride, Inc., the Tampa Bay LGBT Chamber, and Metro Inclusive Health that help keep diversity in the forefront.

Congratulations to Watermark Publishing Group for its third annual Tampa Bay Living with Pride guide. This magazine continues to provide Tampa Bay area residents and visitors to our city with the many wonderful highlights of what to see and do in our great community.

Sincerely,

Jane Castor

Dining With Pride

Ask the locals: Wendi Johnson

RYAN WILLIAMS-JENT

Wendi Johnson knows what makes Tampa Bay special. She sees and sells it every day in her work as a realtor, providing affirming and inclusive services to current and future LGBTQ+ residents of the region.

When she isn’t doing that as a member of the LGBTQ+ Real Estate Alliance, she’s volunteering with local nonprofits which promote equity and equality for LGBTQ+ locals. She understands the importance of doing so because she’s a part of the community herself. “There is no other place in Florida I would live because of how full and diverse the LGBTQ+ community is here,” she says. “On any night of the week, I can find a drag show, performance, charity event or local meet up where I know I will see friends." That’s particularly true with Tampa Bay’s dining scene. Johnson notes there’s no shortage of fan favorites in the area and details a few of her own here.

FAVORITE LGBTQ+FRIENDLY RESTAURANTS:

Tampa Bay has no shortage of these, ranging from casual lunches to fancy nights out. Some of my favorites are The Honu Restaurant and Tiki Bar, The Library and Zoie’s

The Honu Restaurant and Tiki Bar | 516 Grant St, Dunedin, FL 34698 | 727-333-7777 | TheHonuRestaurant.com

The Library | 600 5th St. S., St. Petersburg, FL 33701 | 727-369-9969 | TheLibraryStPete.com

Zoie’s | 2245 Central Ave., St. Petersburg, FL 33713 | 727-855-6990 | ZoiesFL.com

FAVORITE PLACE FOR DINNER & DRINKS: When I’m craving fresh, homemade pasta in an intimate setting straight out of Italy, Pia’s Trattoria is my go-to. I recommend the Penne Quattro Formaggi al Forno. Don’t forget to save room for dessert!

3054 Beach Blvd S., St. Petersburg, FL 33707 | 727-327-2190 | PiasTrattoria.com

FAVORITE SWEET TOOTH

SPOT: Wherever my palate falls on the sweet spectrum on a given day, Valhalla Bakery and Café and their sister store, Valkyrie Doughnuts, have something for me. I usually end up getting multi-packs of the cupcakes and doughnuts to share with my friends.

Valhalla Bakery and Café | 2462 Central Ave., St. Petersburg, FL 33712 | 727-954-4792 | ValhallaBakery.com

Valkyrie Doughnuts | 2444 Central Ave., St. Petersburg, FL 33712 | ValkyrieDoughnuts.com

FAVORITE DINING DATE

NIGHT: Timpano, which has sophisticated Italian dishes and a perfectly curated cocktail menu. Definitely try the Parm to Table dining experience, where your pasta is prepared in a wheel of parmesan at the table!

1610 W. Swann Ave., Tampa, FL 33606 | 813-254-5870 | TimpanoHydePark.com

FAVORITE UNIQUE FLORIDA

MENU: What is more Florida than getting to your dinner spot by boat? At the Salt Shack in the Marina District of Tampa, this is exactly what you can do! Their food is always fresh, cocktails are always cold and their views are unobstructed. Plus, their stage is a beached boat — how cute!

5415 W. Tyson, Tampa, FL 33611 | 813-444-4569 | Salt-Shack.com

FAVORITE VENUE FOR FANCY

DINING: Rococo Steak has great steak, unique appetizers, an expansive wine menu and perfect ambiance to enjoy a great meal.

655 2nd Ave. S., St. Petersburg, FL 33701 | 727-822-0999 | RococoSteak.com

FAVORITE LOCAL JOINT:

When I want fun drinks, a laid-back atmosphere and a drag show or live music, I head to Salty Nun. Their staff is friendly, the food is well made and they have swings out

front, a darling holdover from the venue’s previous inhabitants.

2501 Central Ave., St. Petersburg, FL 33713 | 727-329-9994 | SaltyNun.com

Photo courtesy Wendi Johnson

FAVORITE BRUNCH: This is hard to narrow down because I love breakfast and brunch food more than any other food! Stella’s is a great spot to catch up with friends over a hearty (all day) breakfast and mimosa. I highly recommend the Fried Green Tomato Omelet.

2914 Beach Blvd. S. Gulfport, FL 33707 | 727-498-8950 | StellasGulfport.com

FAVORITE DINNER WITH A

VIEW: Teak on the St. Pete Pier offers one of the most stunning and unique views because you get to experience St. Petersburg from the bay at the end of the recently revitalized Pier. If I’m feeling something a little more laid back, we go up one level to Pier Teaki to enjoy a frozen or signature tiki cocktail.

800 2nd Ave. NE St. Petersburg, FL 33701 | 727-513-8325 | TeakStPete.com, PierTeaki.com

FAVORITE SMALL PLATES: Ceviche Tapas Bar and Restaurant, where Tapas Tuesday is the new Taco Tuesday! Inspired by dishes from Barcelona, it’s a great place to try new things while gathering with friends.

332 Beach Dr. NE, St. Petersburg, FL 33701 | 727-209-2299 | Ceviche.com

FAVORITE RESTAURANT:

LALA St. Pete is hands down my favorite place to go with my girlfriend. We usually sit at the bar and chat while sipping a Pretty Woman and sharing the Duck Linguini before heading upstairs to their fantastic rooftop bar.

2324 Central Ave., St. Petersburg, FL 33712 | 727-329-9455 | LALAStPete.com

FAVORITE SEAFOOD DISH/ RESTAURANT: After my girlfriend and I went to Sea Salt for the first time, it instantly became our favorite seafood restaurant. She opted for the Oyster Sommelier’s Choice platter and Diver Scallops entrée, and I fell in love with the Crab-Crusted Grouper.

183 2nd Ave. N., St. Petersburg, FL 33701 | 727-873-7964 | Facebook.com/SeaSaltStPete

FAVORITE VEGETARIAN DISH/RESTAURANT: The menu at Good Intentions, a vegan restaurant, is innovative, ever changing and accommodates a variety of diets. Their Whipped Ricotta dip and Bolognese are flavorful, unique and emulate the traditional dishes well.

1900 1st Ave. S. St. Petersburg, FL 33712 | 727-280-6068 | GoodIntentionsFL.com

FAVORITE FOOD TRUCK: While it isn’t mobile, Hookin’ Ain’t Easy Seafood Company, Inc. serves their delicious grouper sandwiches (and other fresh catches) from a food truck nestled in the back of their retail store lot. The laid-back outdoor seating with palm trees and a tiki bar and live music will convince you that you are moments from the beach.

3660 22nd Ave. S., St. Petersburg, FL 33711 | 727-592-1388 | Facebook. com/HAESeafood

FAVORITE COFFEE HOUSE: I’m always tickled by a good theme, which is why 2D Café tops my list of coffee shops. The interior is decorated to look like a 2D drawing. The pastries and coffee have a European influence, and it’s a great place to sit down and settle in with a book or do some work between meetings.

2150 Central Ave., St. Petersburg, FL 33713 | 727-329-9008 | 2DCafe.com

FAVORITE CRAFT BEER: If you know anything about St. Pete, you know how dog friendly it is. If you know anything about me, you know how much I love other people’s dogs. Which is why Pinellas Ale Works (PAW) is my favorite place for craft beer (and I don’t even drink beer!) With weekly events, you will never be bored.

1962 1st Ave. S., St. Petersburg, FL 33712 | 727-235-0790 | PAWBeer. com

FAVORITE SPOT FOR WINE: I love getting a group of my friends and colleagues together to head to Creative Grape. This bar doubles as an art gallery with a rotating calendar of local artists!

3100 3rd Ave. N., St. Petersburg, FL, 33713 | 727-803-6004 | CreativeGrape.com

FAVORITE GLOBAL CUISINE: Neptune Grill is the perfect beach spot for authentic Mediterranean and Greek food.

5501 Shore Blvd S., Gulfport, FL 33707 | 727-623-4823 | NeptuneGrillGulfport.com

DON’T MISS…

ARMATURE WORKS

1910 N. Ola Ave., Tampa, FL 33602 | 813-250-3725 | ArmatureWorks.com

BELLABRAVA

204 Beach Dr. NE, St. Petersburg, FL 33701 and 1015 Gramercy Ln., Tampa, FL 33607 | 727-895-5515 and 813-524-5226 | BellaBrava.com

BODEGA

1180 Central Ave., St. Petersburg, FL 33705 | 727-623-0942 | EatBodega.com

MELTING POT SOCIAL 105 W. Tyler St., Tampa, FL 33602 | 813-683-5707 | MeltingPotSocial.com

NEW YORK NEW YORK PIZZA 1512 E. 7th Ave., Tampa, FL 33605 | 813-248-1845 | NYNYPizzeria.com

NOBLE CRUST 8300 4th St N, St. Petersburg, FL 33702 | 727-329-6041 | Noble-Crust.com

RUMFISH GRILL 6000 Gulf Blvd., St. Pete Beach, FL 33706 | 800-249-1667 | RumFishGrill.com

STILLWATERS TAVERN 1224 Beach Dr. NE, St. Petersburg, FL 33701 | 727-350-1019 | StillwatersTavern.com

THE STUDIO PUBLIC HOUSE 2950 Central Ave., St. Petersburg, FL 33712 | 727-873-6992 | TheStudioPublicHouse.com

UPTOWN EATS

689-D Dr., MLK. Jr. St. N., St. Petersburg, FL 33701 | 727-810-3287 | UptownEatsStPete.com

Photo via Ceviche Tapas Bar and Restaraunt's Facebook page

Nightlife of Pride

Ask the locals: Topher Larkin

RYAN WILLIAMS-JENT

Whether he’s working with local organizations to promote equity and equality or performing on stage as an actor, Topher Larkin wears authenticity on his sleeve. It’s a welcome trait in his native Tampa Bay.

“People are generally nice and want to share conversations and connect,” he explains. It’s why he’s always ready to say hello to someone new or strike up a conversation with a colleague, which he encourages others to do. Larkin says Tampa Bay’s nightlife is perfect for that. “I live the ‘bus, club, another club, another club, no sleep, next place’ mantra,” the Lady Gaga fan notes. “There is always something going on and as the social director in my group of friends, I’m always finding something new that we can do together.” Tampa Bay is like “a choose your own adventure,” he adds. Larkin helps you choose one for yourself below.

FAVORITE LGBTQ+ OR FRIENDLY BAR: I have to give a shout out to the newer kid in town, Zoie’s, which has been creating a welcoming space for all and a venue to showcase local talent in all forms of entertainment art. With a winning combo of a restaurant, bar, entertainment venue and late-night food destination, you need to add them to your list of places to stop when you’re bouncing around on Central Ave.

2245 Central Ave., St. Petersburg, FL 33713 | 727-855-6990 | ZoiesFL.com

FAVORITE LGBTQ+-FRIENDLY EVENT NIGHT: If you haven’t caught the magic of Chris and Ryan Zubrick at The Zubrick Magic Theatre, you are in for a treat. An intimate theatre with close-up magic that will blow you away! Plus the magicians are quite nice to look at too, and super friendly – make sure you say hello to them at the meet and greet photo op after.

1211 1st Ave. N., Ste. 101, St. Petersburg, FL 33705 | ZubrickMagic.com

FAVORITE DRAG SHOW: You can’t go wrong with Bradley’s on 7th. It's a Tampa staple that attracts a great crowd of performers.

1510 E. 7th Ave., Tampa, FL 33605 | 813-241-2723 | Bradleyson7th.com

FAVORITE PLACE TO DANCE THE NIGHT AWAY: Enigma is right in my back yard and I have never had a disappointing night there. Great drinks, attentive and friendly staff, rocking DJs and a dance floor. You can even have great conversations and chat with people outside!

1110 Central Ave., St. Petersburg, FL 33705 | 727-235-0867 | EnigmaStPete.com

FAVORITE DATE NIGHT: The way to my heart is pizza and I highly enjoy Pizza Box. Fresh ingredients, unique menu a local business, and if you sit outside it’s a great people-watching spot. Afterwards, we’ll need to walk it off so a stroll along the St. Pete Pier is a perfect opportunity to take in the skyline and continue the conversations.

923 Central Ave., St. Petersburg, FL 33705 | 727-623-0444 | PizzaBox727.com

FAVORITE PLACE FOR LIVE

MUSIC: Ruby’s Elixir always has something going on and is usually a nice night cap. They have live music seven days a week, which means you can find a new band that fits whatever musical genre taste you have.

15 3rd St. N., St. Petersburg, FL 33701, 727-898-2442; RubysElixir.com

FAVORITE FANCY COCKTAIL BAR: The Saint. Maybe it’s the former Catholic school kid in me, but I love the aesthetic and religious camp of it all. Take a look and contribute to the sin wall, enjoy one of the seven deadly sins themed drinks and take it all in.

49 24th St. N., St. Petersburg, FL 33713 | 727-258-7626 | TheSaintSpeakeasy.com

FAVORITE DIVE BAR: The Bends always has an eclectic crowd and a vibe that says that everyone is welcome. It’s a great place to start the night or have a nightcap.

919 1st Ave. N., St. Petersburg, FL 33705 | 727-202-8931 | Facebook.com/TheBendsBar

Photo courtesy Topher Larkin

DON’T MISS…

3 DAUGHTERS BREWING

222 2nd St. S., St. Petersburg, FL 33712 | 727-495-6002 | 3DBrewing.com

BLUR NIGHTCLUB

325 Main St., Dunedin, Florida 34698 | 727-736-2587 |BlurDunedin.com

BAR@548

548 Central Ave., St. Petersburg, FL 33701 | 727-914-7424 | Bar548.com

CITY SIDE LOUNGE

3703 Henderson Blvd., Tampa, FL 33609 | 813-350-0600 | CitySideLounge.com

COCKTAIL

2355 Central Ave., St. Petersburg, FL 33713 | 727-592-1914 | CocktailStPete.com

MAD HATTER’S

ETHNOBOTANICAL TEA BAR

4685 28th St. N., St. Petersburg, FL 33714 | 727-800-5030 |

MadHattersTeaBar.com

THE DOG BAR

2300 Central Ave., St. Petersburg, FL 33712 | 727-317-4968 |

DogBarStPete.com

THE LADY’S ROOM

9057 Ulmerton Rd., Largo, FL 33771 | 727-642-4412 |

Facebook.com/TheLadysRoomLargo

THE RITZ YBOR

1503 E. 7th Ave., Tampa, Florida 33605 | 813-248-4050 | TheRitzYbor.com

SOUTHERN NIGHTS TAMPA 1401 E. 7th Ave., Tampa, FL 33605 | 813-559-8625 | Facebook.com/ SouthernNightsTampa

QUENCH LOUNGE

13284 66th St. N., Largo, FL 33773 | 727-754-5900 | QuenchLounge.com

FROM PG.15

FAVORITE PLACE TO GRAB A BEER: Green Bench Brewing Company / Webb’s City Cellar They have a friendly staff, great selection of beer, wine and meade, and they are great supporters of the community. It’s a perfect day drinking spot, and you can tell them that Topher sent you!

1133 Baum Ave. N., St. Petersburg, FL 33705 | 727-800-9836 | GreenBenchBrewing.com

FAVORITE PLACE FOR A STRONG DRINK: Lucky Star Lounge. We all know what a “gay pour” is and you will definitely get your money’s worth here.

2760 Central Ave., St. Petersburg, FL 33712 | 727-327-7359 | Facebook.com/LuckyStarFL

FAVORITE PLACE FOR DINNER AND A SHOW: I really look forward to Second Saturday ArtWalk. Afterwards, I love to hit up Mammamia Gelato because I love the owners, the flavors and the vibe. Gelato counts as dinner, right?

ArtWalk | Multiple locations in St. Petersburg | StPeteArtsAlliance.org/ArtWalk

Mammamia Gelato | 1691 Central Ave., St. Petersburg, FL 33713 | 727-800-9075 | MammamiaGelatoStPete.com

FAVORITE LIVE SHOW

VENUE: The Floridian Social Club. They’re known for great themed music nights like a Lady Gaga drag show, Taylor Swift night, 90’s/2000s throwback dance parties and more, complete with fire dancers and aerialists. The live bands are fun and entertaining and who knows what local favorite you will find?

687 Central Ave. N., St. Petersburg, FL 33701 | 727-322-4600 | TheFloridianSocial.com

FAVORITE BAR WITH A VIEW: Take a trip to Armature Works. It’s a food hall that caters to whatever taste you are craving but you can also take your drink and sit out by the river to get a great view of Tampa’s downtown skyline.

1910 N. Ola Ave., Tampa, FL 33602 | 813-250-3725 | ArmatureWorks.com

FAVORITE CRAZY NIGHT

OUT: The Castle is definitely an experience and always the place to go to explore and embrace your alternative side and curiosity. This is definitely a unique spot for open-minded folks.

2004 N. 16th St., Tampa, FL 33605 | 813-247-7547 | CastleYbor.com

FAVORITE PLACE TO SIT BACK AND BE ENTERTAINED: Eight O’Clock Theatre puts on wonderfully staged musicals with talented local artists and musicians with the equivalent of big Broadway energy!

105 Central Park Dr., Largo, FL 33771 | 727-587-6793 | EightOClockTheatre.com

FAVORITE COCKTAIL:

Intermezzo Coffee & Cocktails always has fun crafts — whether you want a cocktail or if you’re in the mood for a coffee. It’s a perfect spot to hang out with friends and kick off your evening.

1111 Central Ave., St. Petersburg, FL 33705 | 727-873-6664 | Intermezzo.co

FAVORITE PLACE TO MEET

LOCALS: Both Black Crow Coffee Co. locations are great meet up spots to catch up with someone, or maybe to refuel after a long weekend.

2157 1st Ave. S. and 722 2nd St. N., St. Petersburg, FL 33701 | 727-580-7200 | BlackCrowCoffeeCo.com

Photo via Enigma's Facebook page

James Warren is a real estate agent affiliated with Compass, a licensed real estate broker and abides by Equal Housing Opportunity laws.

Pride in Arts & Entertainment

Ask the locals: Mr. Vyn Suazion

RYAN WILLIAMS-JENT

AAs the current reigning Mr. St Pete Pride, Mr. Vyn Suazion knows about the region’s arts and entertainment. He’s been a part of what’s kept it fresh for years.

In addition to other titles the performer has captured, he’s also a seasoned musician. The singer describes his brand as music as “an invigorating experience of self-love and empowerment for the entire family to enjoy,” which you can do on all major streaming platforms.

“I have been in entertainment since I was a child,” he explains. “My earliest memory is dancing with my elementary school class at six years young, and when I turned 17 I started competing in shows and pageantry. That makes 25 years of performance!” If Suazion isn’t performing himself, he’s out supporting Tampa Bay’s local arts and entertainment scene. He guides you through some of his favorite ways to enjoy it here.

FAVORITE FANCY NIGHT OUT:

My idea of a fancy night out is dessert and a fancy picnic with a hard cider and close company. A great place to have dessert is Hellas Restaurant & Bakery. Enjoy a walk towards sunset at the Sponge Docks afterwards.

785 Dodecanese Blvd., Tarpon Springs, FL 34689 | 727-943-2400 | HellasBakery.com

FAVORITE PLACE FOR A LAUGH:

Two places come to mind right away when it comes to a side-aching laugh. The first is Cocktail during their Fresh Start Drag Showcase and Sissy Saturdays! Hosts Adriana Sparkle and Aquariius are two of the most hilarious queens in Florida. The other is Enigma which usually has Daphne Ferraro at the helm, a Miss National Comedy Queen!

Cocktail | 2355 Central Ave., St. Petersburg, FL 33713 | 727-592-1914 | CocktailStPete. com

Enigma | 1110 Central Ave., St. Petersburg, FL 33705 | 727-235-0867 | EnigmaStPete.com

FAVORITE COMMUNITY THEATER:

The Richey Suncoast Theatre has been a safe space for LGBTQ+ audiences for many years.

6237 Grand Blvd., New Port Richey, FL 34652 | 727-842-6777 | RicheySuncoastTheatre. com

FAVORITE OUTDOOR

ENTERTAINMENT: If you're looking for a monthly event to enjoy, I highly recommend taking a visit to the Tarpon Springs First Fridays! This block party consists of a variety of live music, vendors and an even bigger variety of foods.

324 E. Pine St., Tarpon Springs, FL 34689 | ExploreTarponSprings.com

FAVORITE VENUE FOR A MOVIE:

Cinema 6. I'm not someone that needs too many fancy things and this small cinema has been active for years. It has affordable and first-run movie tickets, a great snack variety and reclining seats, allowing for a moviegoing experience that can be enjoyed on every budget. Winning!

9510 US-19, Port Richey, FL 34668 | 727-264-8978 | TheCinema6.com

FAVORITE VENUE FOR A LIVE INTIMATE PERFORMANCE: The Zubrick Magic Theatre. Brace yourself for a life-changing magical experience of life, love and family! The venue is a close and intimate theatre that makes me ask: “how on earth did they fit a whole helicopter inside of this building?!”

1211 1st Ave. N., Ste. 101, St. Petersburg, FL 33705 | ZubrickMagic.com

FAVORITE PLACE FOR DINNER AND A SHOW: Whether it’s a night for two or the whole family, a great place for an awesome dinner experience is Nine Spices Hot Pot & Korean BBQ. They offer a variety of soups and a constantly refilling belt of food with a variety of noodles, meats and veggies. Then, hop over to see a show at the Zubrick Magic Theatre or The Lady's Room. They host a variety of shows such that include drag, poetry slams, music open nights and more. They also have a menu of great foods and drinks.

Nine Spices Hot Pot & Korean BBQ | 6851 66th St. N., Pinellas Park, FL 33781 | 727-350-3772 | NineSpicesHotPotFL.com

Zubrick Magic Theatre | 1211 1st Ave. N., Ste. 101, St. Petersburg, FL 33705 | ZubrickMagic. com

The Lady’s Room | 9057 Ulmerton Rd., Largo, FL 33771 | 727-642-4412 | Facebook. com/TheLadysRoomLargo

Photo by St Jean Creative, courtesy Mr. Vyn Suazion

FAVORITE VENUE FOR LIVE

DANCE: Bayanihan Arts and Events Center — Filipino pride! Every year they host PhilFest, a multi-day Filipino festival. If you've never experienced the exciting presentations of traditional dances such as the Tinikling, the modern Filipino hip-hop scene or the other forms of abundant love of Filiipino culture, I highly encourage you to check it out.

14301 Nine Eagles Dr., Tampa, FL 33626 | 813-925-1232 | BanyanihanArtsCenter.org

FAVORITE VENUE FOR A VARIETY OF MUSIC: Ruth Eckerd Hall, which offers everything from the classical music of The Florida Orchestra to modern artists like Ed Sheeran. The acoustics of this venue are magical.

1111 McMullen Booth Rd., Clearwater, FL 33759 | 727-791-7400 | RuthEckerdHall.com

FAVORITE VENUE FOR LIVE

ART: I have to go with The Zubrick

Magic Theatre again! Magic is art. It’s the art of illusion, and the time, effort and details they take to create an inexplicable emotional roller coasters of admiration is unmatched.

1211 1st Ave. N., Ste. 101, St. Petersburg, FL 33705 | ZubrickMagic.com

FAVORITE CRAZY NIGHT

OUT: Cocktail. Between the comedic stylings of Aquariius and Adriana Sparkle, the music from DJ Ace Vedo that will always get me dancing, the BOGO drinks and the on-point security team, there is always a great story to tell. Did I mention The Wet Spot, their adjoined bar and club, has a pool?

2355 Central Ave., St. Petersburg, FL 33713 | 727-592-1914 | CocktailStPete.com

FAVORITE GEEK SPOT: La France. I am a sucker for vintage style and this store ONLY carries clothing from the 60s and earlier. I have found some of my best suit pieces in this store, along with matching jewelry. It's a great place to

visit if you want to geek out over going back in time.

1612 E. 7th Ave., Tampa, FL 33605 | 813-248-1381 | Facebook.com/LaFranceYbor

FAVORITE HIDDEN A&E GEM: Tampa’s Blue Note. This hip-hop bar is a friendly and awesome place full of musical history. Established in 1943 and then reopened in 2017, there is insane history on the walls — holding the vibrations from performances like Aerosmith, TheRoots, Ray Charles and more.

1510 N. Nebraska Ave., Tampa, FL 33602 | 813-302-9438 | Facebook.com/TampaBlueNote

FAVORITE ANNUAL EVENT: St Pete Pride is my favorite. Pride takes over the city of St. Petersburg for the entire month of June and I love the comradery that comes to life on the streets. On top of all that, I'm so grateful to be a part of the Royal Court as Mr. St Pete Pride.

Signature events throughout St. Petersburg each June | 727-342-0084 | StPetePride.org

DON’T MISS…

AMERICAN STAGE THEATRE COMPANY

163 3rd St. N., St. Petersburg, FL 33701 | 727-823-7529 | AmericanStage.org

FREEFALL THEATRE

6099 Central Ave., St. Petersburg, FL 33710 | 727-498-5205 | freeFallTheatre.com

MAHAFFEY THEATER

400 1st St. S., St. Petersburg, Florida 33701 | 727-892-5767 | TheMaha ey.com

MUSEUM OF FINE ARTS, ST. PETE 255 Beach Dr. NE, St. Petersburg, FL 33701 | 727-896-2667 | MFAStPete.org

PALLADIUM THEATER

253 5th Ave. N., St. Petersburg, FL 33701 | 727-822-3590 | MyPalladium.org

STRAZ CENTER FOR PERFORMING ARTS

1010 N. Macinnes Pl., Tampa, FL 33602 | 813-229-7827 | StrazCenter.org

TAMPA THEATRE

711 N. Franklin St., Tampa, FL 33602 | 813-274-8981 | TampaTheatre.org

THE DALI MUSEUM 1 Dali Blvd., St. Petersburg, FL 33701 | 727-823-3767 | TheDali.org

THE FACTORY ST. PETE 2622 Fair eld Ave S., St. Petersburg, Florida 33712

THE JAMES MUSEUM OF WESTERN & WILDLIFE ART

150 Central Ave., St. Petersburg, FL 33701 | 727-892-4200 | TheJamesMuseum.org

Ruth Eckerd Hall Watermark le photo Photo via La France's Facebook page

TAMPA BAY

Between 1985 and 2001, the Orlando concert promoter Figurehead invigorated the musical landscape in Central Florida. Catch a glimpse into what made this time in the Central Florida music scene so memorable – the bands and the clubs, the community and the chaos.

Poster design Jeff Matz/Lure

Pride 365

Tampa Bay celebrates LGBTQ+ Pride year-round

RYAN WILLIAMS-JENT

There’s no shortage of ways to showcase your Pride in Tampa Bay. It’s been celebrated by locals and visitors throughout the region for decades, a testament to the impact the LGBTQ+ community has had here. Check out some of those celebrations below and be sure to read Watermark’s Central Florida and Sarasota Living with Pride guides to see how even more of Tampa Bay’s neighbors share their LGBTQ+ Pride. Watch future issues of Watermark and visit WatermarkOnline.com for the latest details about each outing.

COME OUT ST. PETE

St. Petersburg, Florida | ComeOUTStPete.org

Come OUT St. Pete has advocated for the acceptance of every sexual orientation and gender identity since 2017, encouraging a sense of community through a series of events and activities. The organization’s main events are traditionally held in St. Petersburg in October, coinciding with National Coming Out Day which has been celebrated on Oct. 11 for more than 30 years. The holiday has led COSP to envision a world that is unified around a culture that values freedom of expression, acceptance, love and equality for LGBTQ+ individuals.

DUNEDIN PRIDE

Dunedin, Florida | DunedinPride.com

Dunedin Pride was launched 2022 to honor the city’s growing LGBTQ+ community. The annual event celebrates the diversity and inclusion of the LGBTQ+ community in the city and features a range of events like a Pride Golf Cart Parade, Pride Festival and other educational events. It is organized by the Dunedin Pride Committee, a volunteer-led organization which promotes equality and acceptance for all.

GULFPORT PRIDE

Gulfport, Florida | GulfportPride.com, GulfportPrideFlorida.com

Gulfport’s LGBTQ+ residents have led numerous celebrations over the years, most frequently with the LGBTQ Resource Center at the Gulfport Public Library. Newer events include the Gulfport Peace, Love and Pride Fest held earlier each year, presented by ProSistersRadio and co-sponsored by the City of Gulfport. It is designed as “a celebration for everyone.” Gulfport Pride is held in June to celebrate the region’s LGBTQ+ community and allies with a vendor fair, walking march and more.

LIVING THE CULTURE: CLEARWATER CELEBRATES PRIDE

Clearwater, Florida | MyClearwater.com/LivingTheCulture

The City of Clearwater launched its Pride celebration in 2023 as a part of its “Living the Culture” series, which celebrates the region’s cultural diversity while “embracing living together in harmony.” Inaugural events included a flag raising, glow party and more, designed to complement Clearwater’s Coachman Park and long history of LGBTQ+ inclusion by highlighting spaces like Pro Shop Pub, which has served the region for nearly 50 years.

PASCO PRIDE

Pasco County, Florida | PascoPrideFestival.com

The goal of Pasco Pride is to connect, build and strengthen the LGBTQ+ community in and around Pasco County. It was founded in 2018 and made history by becoming the area’s first festival celebrating the area’s growing LGBTQ population. While various social events and volunteer efforts are held throughout the year, Pasco Pride’s main outing includes a festival earlier in the calendar year. They continue to support various initiatives throughout Pasco County in new and exciting ways.

POLK PRIDE

Lakeland, Florida | PolkPrideFL.com

Polk Pride was formed in 2015 to showcase the thriving LGBTQ+ community living in and around Polk County. The event aspires to be the premier platform for education and entertainment for the area’s LGBTQ+ community and is a venture of the

St Pete Pride

photo by Dylan Todd

Photography in your best light!

Lakeland Youth Alliance. The nonprofit provides a safe space for LGBTQ+ youth to gather, talk about issues and concerns and meet other LGBTQ+ youth. Their signature event is held in June.

PRIDE AT THE VILLAGE Pinellas Park, Florida | Facebook.com/Pav727

Pride at the Village launched in 2021 as the first official Pride celebration held in Pinellas Park and has continued to make history. In another first, organizers welcomed government officials in 2022 to proclaim Pride in the city. The celebration benefits Diversity Arts, which exists to support underserved youth and communities by providing safe environments, guidance and materials for creative self-discovery.

ST PETE PRIDE St. Petersburg, Florida | StPetePride.org

St Pete Pride is the largest LGBTQ+ Pride celebration in Florida and celebrated 21 years in 2023. It exists to strengthen St. Petersburg’s legacy of inclusion and diversity by providing a safe space for education, self-exploration and the celebration of the LGBTQ+ community and its allies. It was founded in 2003 in St. Petersburg’s “gayborhood,” and in recent years

has expanded to welcome hundreds of thousands for events each year throughout the entire city.

TAMPA PRIDE

Tampa, Florida | TampaPride.org

Following an eight-year ban on celebrating Pride in Hillsborough County, Tampa Pride returned stronger than ever in 2015 and has continued to serve the community in the years since. The celebration now enjoys the full support of the city

and county in which it resides and has expanded to include other events throughout the year, presenting celebrations in conjunction with local theme parks and along Tampa’s waterfront.

TIGLFF Tampa Bay, Florida | TIGLFF.org

The Tampa Bay International Gay and Lesbian Film Festival has been held for more than 30 years each October. It has entertained,

empowered and enlightened Tampa Bay audiences across the decades with compelling films by, for and/or about the LGBTQ+ community. In 2020, organizers expanded its access to hold its first virtual festival, streaming films to audiences state and nationwide. In recent years they have also introduced the organization’s Tampa Bay Transgender Film Festival and Queer in Color: A BIPOC Film Festival, held at different times each year.

Come OUT St. Pete photo by Ryan Williams-Jent

Pride at the Village photo by Ryan Williams-Jent

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 | Celebrations Continued FROM PG.25

Community Care

Tampa Bay organizations o er their support

RYAN WILLIAMS-JENT

LGBTQ+ advocates and allies throughout Tampa Bay have long understood the importance of supporting one another, forming organizations dedicated to cultivating the community. Get to know some of the organizations working to make the region a warm and welcoming place for every resident and visitor here.

AIDS HEALTHCARE FOUNDATION

3404 26th Ave. S., St. Petersburg, Florida 33711 | 727-318-6880 | HIVCare.org

The LA-based AIDS Healthcare Centers provides advanced medical care designed specifically for its more than 1 million HIV-positive clients across the globe. Its St. Petersburg healthcare center does so regardless of the ability to pay and is located in the organization’s Tampa Bay flagship facility, which houses AHF’s pharmacy and their fundraising thrift store Out of the Closet.

BALANCE TAMPA BAY

1802 N. Howard Ave. #4529, Tampa, Florida 33677 | BalanceTampaBay.org

Balance Tampa Bay was founded to promote fellowship, fun and philanthropy for the LGBTQ+ community and Tampa Bay at large in 2011. To further its mission, volunteers have held public service activities, regular socials and large-scale events ever since, including their signature

Masquerade! and Party 4 Presents. BTB partners with another nonprofit — traditionally Empath Partners in Care, detailed to the right — for Masquerade, described as “a fabulous night of music, dance, fun and fundraising,” and Party 4 Presents is a holiday gift drive benefiting Tampa Bay charities.

CAN COMMUNITY HEALTH

Locations throughout Tampa Bay | 727-498-4969 | CANCommunityHealth.org

CAN Community Health has served the needs of the HIV community in Florida and beyond since 1991. The private, not-for-profit organization owns and operates over 30 medical clinics, with sites in Clearwater, New Port Richey, St. Petersburg and Tampa, a 30,000-square-foot headquarters. CAN’s mission is to inspire and contribute to the health and well-being of those affected by HIV, Hepatitis C and other sexually transmitted diseases. They do this through outreach, integrated clinical

practice, advocacy, education and research. The organization also seeks to enhance public awareness through education and prevention initiatives while hosting annual events and more.

EMPATH PARTNERS IN CARE

Locations throughout Tampa Bay | 727-328-3260 | MyEPIC.org

Empath Partners in Care is a member of Empath Health’s network of health care providers, which has supported patients challenged by chronic and advanced illnesses in Tampa Bay since 1977. It formed after the 2016 merger of the AIDS Service Association of Pinellas and the Tampa-based Francis House and currently offers a wide variety of services via its Clearwater, St. Petersburg and Tampa campuses. The organization participates in and regularly holds fundraisers to raise awareness for its mission, efforts which helped lead to the opening of EPIC’s first Sexual Health Center in South St. Petersburg in 2021. The organization also maintains EPIC Generations, programming designed to support LGBTQ+ elders.

EQUALITY FLORIDA

P.O. Box 13184, St. Petersburg, Florida 33733 | 813-870-3735 | EQFL.org

Equality Florida celebrated 25 years as the state’s largest LGBTQ+-focused civil rights organization in 2022. They have worked to change the political landscape in Florida since 1997, doing so through education, grassroots organizing, coalition building and political lobbying. They also hold annual events, including the Tampa and St. Pete galas, to raise awareness for their fight to ensure no one is discriminated against on the basis of their sexual orientation or gender identity. That work specifically extends to adoption, discrimination, family recognition, gun violence prevention, hate crimes, HIV advocacy, marriage equality, safe and healthy schools, transgender inclusion and voter mobilization.

LAKELAND YOUTH ALLIANCE

P.O. Box 8978, Lakeland, Florida 33806 | LakelandYouthAlliance.org

The Lakeland Youth Alliance is a nonprofit which provides a safe space for LGBTQ+ youth to gather to discuss issues and concerns that are important

CAN Community Health photo by Ryan Williams-Jent

in their lives. It also allows them to meet other LGBTQ+ youth in its peer-based groups with members ranging from the ages of 13 to 24. It began as a chapter of the Orlando Youth Alliance in 2008 and seeks to empower LGBTQ+ youth to become advocates and leaders in the community while helping them navigate their lives. While it features adult leadership, the organization stresses that its groups revolve around its members.

LGBTQ RESOURCE CENTER

5501 28th Ave. SW., Gulfport, Florida 33707 | 727-893-1074 | Facebook.com/ LGBTQResourceCenter.Gulfport

The LGBTQ Resource Center is housed in the Gulfport Public Library, which has received the National Medal for Museum and Library Service, the nation’s highest honor given to libraries and museums. It was awarded the honor in part for its inclusive service, which cultivated the resource center which now operates as an independent nonprofit featuring thousands of LGBTQ+-themed print and digital resources. The organization is a year-round provider of programming for the LGBTQ+ community and its allies, highlighting exhibits, films, guest speakers and performances. They host annual events like ReadOut and ArtOut, which respectively highlight LGBTQ+ literature and artists.

METRO INCLUSIVE HEALTH

Locations throughout Tampa Bay | 727-321-3854 | MetroTampaBay.org

Metro Inclusive Health has worked to meet the health and wellness needs of Tampa Bay for three decades, providing services that are inclusive, relevant, supportive and represent the lifetime continuum of the diverse community they serve. In 2023, the organization announced their expansion to eight locations, with sites including

Clearwater, New Port Richey, St. Petersburg and Tampa. With more than 100 medical and social services, including pediatric care, LGBTQ+ youth programming and more, they strive to ensure that all are welcome all year long.

PFLAG

Chapters throughout Tampa Bay | PFLAG.org

PFLAG is the nation’s largest organization dedicated to uniting LGBTQ+ people and their allies, with chapters throughout Tampa Bay. Leaders hold support groups and events to let LGBTQ individuals and their loved ones celebrate diversity and envision a society that embraces everyone. They believe that only with respect, dignity and equality for all will we reach our full potential as human beings, individually and collectively and organizers welcome the participation and support of all who hope to realize this vision.

Contact Lakeland/Polk County’s chapter at PFLAGOfPolkCounty.org; Riverview’s at 813-8337972, PFLAGRiverview.org; Safety Harbor’s at 727-282-5358, Campsite.bio/PFLAGSafetyHarbor; Tampa’s at 813-535-5239, PFLAGTampa.org and Wesley Chapel/Pasco’s at 443-606-0993, PFLAGWCPasco.org

THE PLUS PROJEC+

4300 W. Cypress St., Ste. 700, Tampa, Florida 33607 | 813-282-1975 | ThePlusProject.org

The Plus Project operates in partnership with the Community Foundation of Tampa Bay, which has worked to build a better community through creative philanthropy in Hillsborough, Pinellas, Pasco, Hernando and Citrus counties since 1990. The donor-advised fund formed in 2019 to become an innovative and inclusive funding resource for organizations serving Tampa Bay’s LGBTQ+ community, increasing awareness and enhancing

the effectiveness for those organizations. Contributions to The Plus Project help to meet the immediate needs of Tampa Bay’s LGBTQ+ residents while supporting an endowment to ensure a permanent, reliable revenue stream to address emerging needs in the area.

TAMPA BAY LGBT CHAMBER

3251 3rd Ave. N., St. Petersburg, Florida 33713 | 813-687-4993 | TampaBayLGBTChamber.org

For more than 40 years, the Tampa Bay LGBT Chamber has sought to advance the common business interests, economic growth and equality in the workplace for LGBT and allied businesses, corporations and professional members. It does so by providing educational and networking opportunities to engage with the community, representing hundreds of businesses, community groups and individuals in Hillsborough, Pinellas, Pasco, Manatee, Sarasota, Polk and Hernando counties. As an affiliate of the National LGBT Chamber of Commerce, it also provides LGBT Business Enterprise certification to businesses which are majority owned, managed, operated and controlled by LGBT individuals.

THE FITZLANE PROJECT

Tampa Bay, Florida 727-349-3489 | TheFitzLaneProject.org

The FitzLane Project provides access to the LGBTQ+ specialized mental health services necessary to empower underprivileged transgender youth to embrace their authentic selves and have the tools needed to succeed in their lives. They fund services for those ages 13-24 in Tampa Bay's Hillsborough, Pasco and Pinellas counties. They work to facilitate more access for these individuals through a network of certified therapist/mental health counselors who share the nonprofit’s vision.

Equality Florida photo by Jamarcus Mosley

Business Directory

ARTS AND ENTERTAINMENT: STRAZ CENTER FOR THE PERFORMING ARTS

813-229-7827

StrazCenter.org

DERMATOLOGIST: DIVINE DERMATOLOGY

727-528-0321

DivineDermatology.com

FOOD AND BEVERAGE: BELLABRAVA – SAINT PETERSBURG

727-895-5515

BellaBrava.com

BELLABRAVA - TAMPA 813-524-5226

BellaBrava.com

MELTING POT SOCIAL 813-683-5707

MeltingPotSocial.com/Tampa-Florida

RUMFISH

727-329-1428

RumFishGrill.com

STILLWATERS TAVERN

727-350-1019

StillwatersTavern.com

HEALTH AND WELLNESS: CAN COMMUNITY HEALTH CANCommunityHealth.org

EPIC SEXUAL HEALTH CENTER

727-328-6420

IfYouSex.org

INCLUSIVE CARE GROUP

727-753-7787

InclusiveCareGroup.com

LOVE THE GOLDEN RULE

727-826-0700

LoveThrGoldenRule.com

MENS HEALTH: NATURAL HEALING ARTS MEDICAL CENTER

941-761-4994

MyOfficeInfo.com

MUNICIPAL & GOVERNMENT: CITY OF ST PETERSBURG

727-893-7111

StPete.org

MUSEUMS: ART AND HISTORY MUSEUMS MAITLAND 407-539-2181

ArtandHistory.org

MUSEUM OF FINE ARTS 727-896-2667

MFAStPete.org

ORANGE COUNTY REGIONAL HISTORY CENTER 407-836-8500

TheHistoryCenter.org

THE DALI (SALVADOR DALI MUSEUM) 727-823-3767

TheDali.org

THE JAMES MUSEUM 727-892-4200

TheJamesMuseum.org

REAL ESTATE AGENTS: TED CISKE - REALTOR 727-385-9192

TedCiske.com

JAMES WARREN - THE JAMES WARREN GROUP - COMPASS 239-595-0084

JamesWarren.com

CASSANDRA CURRIER - THE CURRIER GROUP 813-476-0033

TheCurrierGroup.com

RETAIL: GOLD & DIAMOND SOURCE 727-573-9351

GoldAndDiamond.com

SENIOR LIVING: MEASE MANOR 727-738-3390

MeaseLife.com

TRAVEL AND TOURISM: GREATER ORLANDO AVIATION AUTHORITY/ MCO  407-825-2001

OrlandoAirports.com

THE GETAWAY GUYS 321-300-5580

TGG.Travel

VENUE: THE GULFPORT CASINO BALLROOM 727-893-1070

CasinoInfo@MyGulfport.us