4 minute read
WINTER PARTY FESTIVAL: A PREVIEW FROM FUNDRAISING DIRECTOR WALTER CASTANEDA
from Wire Magazine Issue 1.2024 South Beach Wine & Food Festival and Winter Party Festival Special Issue
By Rafa Carvajal. Model Photo by Antony Kozz
The Mission Statement of the National LGBTQ Task Force is ‘to produce world-class fundraising events benefiting LGBTQ organizations while creating memories for attendees, volunteers, and our community.’ The Winter Party Festival (WPF) is one of those outstanding yearly events, taking place February 28 to March 5 with the Royal Palm South Beach as its host hotel in Miami Beach. I sat down with WPF Fundraising Director Walter Castaneda to chat about what guests will experience at this year’s Festival.
Rafa Carvajal: Tell our readers why they should attend the 2024 Winter Party Festival.
Walter Castaneda: Our community is under attack, especially here in Florida. Now more than ever we need to come together, be visible and celebrate who we are. At Winter Party we live free, play hard and give back. For a few days we create a magical experience and bring together that community to experience love and joy. Attendance at Winter Party supports the important work of the National LGBTQ Task Force to fight back against those attacks here in Florida and around the country. Last year alone, there were over 491 anti-LGBTQ laws introduced in state legislatures across the US. Join me on the dance floor to support this important cause.
RC: What's new for the 2024 Winter Party Festival?
WC: This year's Festival is happening from February 29 to March 5, 2024. Be prepared for something new at Saturday's Under One Sun event. Step into the sun and raise your hands up for DJ Derrick Carter — a pinnacle of the Chicago nightlife and queer party scene loved for his free-flowing sets that traverse outside of classic-house club sounds, seamlessly incorporating old-school disco, soul, jazz and other genres world-wide! Headlining UOS this year, Derrick will be bringing his infectious energy and masterful mixing skills for his Winter Party debut! I wish I could share more, but I signed a nondisclosure agreement. You'll have to come see for yourself! If you’re unable to join us this year, you can still be a part of giving back by visiting wiremag.co/taskforcegift to donate.
RC: Why is it so important for the National LGBTQ Task Force to host the Winter Party Festival every year?
WC: The Task Force's commitment to creating a safe and welcoming space where everyone can be their authentic selves is unwavering. Despite opposition from some Floridians, we know how vital Winter Party Festival is to our community. It's a time when people from all over the world come together with their chosen family to celebrate life and love. For many, this event is the only place where they feel truly accepted and supported. It's not just a celebration; it's a chance to connect and find strength in our shared experiences. By continuing this event, we're also supporting small organizations in South Florida that work tirelessly to protect our community from harm and promote LGBTQ rights.
RC: What are you looking forward to the most about this year's Festival?
WC: I'm super excited about Saturday night's event: Fire and Ice. Two of my favorite DJs, Calagna and Abel, are spinning at the iconic M2 (formerly Mansion) nightclub in South Beach. Get ready to be mesmerized as Calagna takes over the decks with their dynamic and captivating sounds. Whether you want to heat things up or cool things down, this DJ has got you covered. Then, Abel will take over and bring a fusion of fiery and icy sounds that will take you deep into the morning light. With a masterful command of music and mood, these DJs will effortlessly transport you to a blissful state on the dancefloor. Get ready for an unforgettable experience!
RC: Is there anything else you would like to share with Wire Magazine readers?
WC: Last year, we celebrated the 50th Anniversary of the National LGBTQ Task Force, the oldest advocacy group working towards freedom, justice, and equity for the LGBTQ+ community. Winter Party Festival, a fundraiser for over 25 years, has been integral to our mission to create a welcoming and accepting environment. We are grateful to all those who have supported us over the years and helped us build a community where queer individuals can live their best lives. See you on the dance floor!
