Pictured: On May 31, Project Pride SRQ will present ‘Grand Carnival: Palm Royale,’ featuring headliner John Duff Provided photo/Project Pride.

Pride Month is almost here—a time to reflect on the ongoing fight for equality and inclusion, honor the resilience of the LGBTQ+ community, and celebrate love in all its forms.

Despite growing challenges to LGBTQ+ rights nationwide, Sarasota continues to stand out as a supportive and welcoming community. “Our motto is: one heart, one mind at a time," says Project Pride SRQ President Jason Champion. "Sarasota itself is a very welcoming, loving community and the city has supported us quite nicely." Over the past two years, Project Pride has worked closely with the city commission to secure a high Municipal Equality Index (MEI) score from the Human Rights Campaign, a process requiring extensive documentation and collaboration. Champion notes that the city consistently demonstrated its support, recognizing LGBTQ+ residents as equal, taxpaying citizens. The organization is currently awaiting the final MEI score.

In the spirit of celebration and community, Project Pride SRQ is proud to announce its signature Pride Month fundraiser: Grand Carnival: Palm Roayle. Now in its fourth year, this spectacular event takes place from 8–11 p.m. at the Circus Arts Conservatory's Sailor Circus Arena (2075 Bahia Vista St., Sarasota) and features a night of music, fashion, food and fun. Guests are encouraged to dress on theme and come ready to dance. SRQ Beats will spin the hottest tracks, while attendees enjoy delicious lite bites and desserts donated by local restaurants. Bar vendor Dive Wine & Spirits will provide an excellent selection of both alcoholic and non-alcoholic cocktails. The evening’s headline performer is acclaimed American singer/songwriter John Duff.

“Grand Carnival has grown tremendously over the past few years,” says Champion. “Every year, we partner with the Circus Conservatory of the Arts, and it’s just an amazing time of love and acceptance. One of my friends told me last year it was the first time she felt celebrated as a woman at an event in Sarasota. That tells you just how open and welcoming this community is.”

Tickets are $125 for early purchase general admission, $175 at the door (subject to availability), and $250 for VIP access, which includes early entry at 7pm, open bar, lite bites and entertainment. Major sponsors include the Gulf Coast Community Foundation and the Hall Family Foundation.

For more about Project Pride SRQ and its Pride Month events, visit ppsrq.org.

Pictured: On May 31, Project Pride SRQ will present ‘Grand Carnival: Palm Royale,’ featuring headliner John Duff Provided photo/Project Pride.