Miami offers fun in the sun this winter…
By Shane Gallagher
If you’re ready to escape the cold this winter, there’s no better place than Miami. Known for its beautiful beaches, year-round sunshine and vibrant 2SLGBTQI+ scene, Miami offers a warm refuge from the chilly months. Whether you’re basking in the sun at South Beach or dancing the night away at one of the city’s hottest music festivals, Miami has something for everyone.
Palace Bar is more than just a restaurant or a bar; it’s an institution. It has been a pillar of the South Beach 2SLGBTQI+ community for over 30 years. When Palace first opened on Ocean Drive, there were no other restaurants in the area, and many thought it was a strange idea. But the eatery turned into a beloved gathering spot for South Beach’s gay scene, hosting regular T-dances and drag shows. The bar was frequented by iconic figures like Gianni Versace, who lived nearby and often brought along famous friends such as Luciano Pavarotti, Elton John, Madonna and even Princess Diana. The glitz and glamour of Ocean Drive surrounded Palace, making it a prime location for photo shoots, music videos and fashion shows.
However, like all great landmarks, Palace faced its challenges. When Thomas Donall, a nightclub owner and designer from Michigan, took over the bar in 2007, it was in need of serious renovations. The kitchen was outdated, and the place lacked the magic it once had. But Donall wasn’t ready to let Palace fade away. He introduced daily drag performances and brought the vibrant spirit of South Beach back to the bar. His vision led to block parties that were so massive during major events like Miami Pride and Winter Party that he had to get permits to close down an entire street.
Palace quickly regained its status as a must-visit spot for anyone in Miami’s 2SLGBTQI+ scene, attracting new celebrity patrons like Andy Cohen and NeNe Leakes. But in April 2017, news broke that the building housing Palace had been sold, and the bar would have to close. After a farewell performance on July 4, Donall promised it wasn’t the end for Palace – and he delivered on that promise. In November of the same year, Palace reopened at 1052 Ocean Drive, just a few blocks down from its original location.
The new space is even better than before. Drag queens like Tiffany T. Fantasia and Joanna James rave about the upgraded layout, which allows for bigger and bolder performances. The energy is electric, and visitors from all over the world come to experience the magic of Palace’s drag brunches, T-dances and legendary street shows. Donall’s efforts have ensured that Palace remains a central figure in Miami’s 2SLGBTQI+ landscape, and it’s a perfect spot for winter travellers looking to soak up the South Beach sun with a side of fabulous drag.
If nightlife is your thing, there is no city better than Miami. Located in South Beach, Twist is one of Miami’s most famous gay clubs. Known for its multi-room layout and diverse crowd, the club offers different vibes in each room, from upbeat dance music to more chill lounges. It is a Miami institution where the party never stops, with no cover charge!
Club Space is a favourite for those who love electronic music. It is known for its marathon parties that can last well into the next day. While not exclusively 2SLGBTQI+, the venue is welcoming and draws a diverse, inclusive crowd. Its legendary rooftop terrace offers an incredible view of the Miami skyline as you dance the night away.
If you’re in town over the US Thanksgiving weekend, there’s another event you won’t want to miss: the URGE Miami Festival. This annual 2SLGBTQI+ festival has become one of the city’s most anticipated events, drawing thousands of visitors from around the world. From November 29 to December 2, URGE will take over South Beach with three massive nighttime events and two sizzling daytime parties, including the famous Beach Party on the sands of South Beach.
URGE is more than just a music festival. According to event producer Luis Morera, it’s a celebration of community, self-expression and gratitude. With a lineup of world-renowned DJs, the festival offers an unforgettable experience where attendees can dance, connect with old friends and make new ones. This year’s celebration marks URGE’s 13th birthday, and producers promise plenty of surprises for attendees. With top-notch production and a crowd of revellers ready to party, it’s sure to be a night you won’t forget.
The festivities kick off with the Miami premiere of GUAPO, a Sao Paulo-based festival known for its upbeat, energetic vibe. The party will be held at M3 Studios, a venue that has seen performances from superstars like Shakira and Maluma.
The fun continues on Saturday with the Royal Palm Pool Party, held at the Royal Palm South Beach hotel, the festival’s host hotel. This daytime event is a fan favourite, offering partygoers the chance to dance poolside under the Miami sun. With DJs like Yazz Burrell, Eliad Cohen and Jerac on the lineup, you can expect a high-energy atmosphere and non-stop beats.
Saturday night brings the festival’s main event at M3 Studios, featuring an impressive lineup of DJs including Edu Quintas, Mor Abrahami and Miami’s own DJ Yordi.
But the weekend isn’t over yet! Sunday’s Beach Party promises to be bigger and better than ever, with DJs Joe Gauthreaux and Erik Villar spinning on the sands of South Beach. This year’s party will feature a new look and higher level of production, making it a must-attend event for anyone in Miami that weekend. The festivities will conclude with URGE After Dark, an after-hours party featuring three headliners: Danny Verde, House of Labs and Alison Nunes.
For travellers looking to escape the winter cold, Miami is a dream destination. Whether you’re brunching at Palace, dancing at URGE or just relaxing on the beach, there’s no better place to soak up the sun and celebrate community. Don’t miss out on the fun this winter – Miami is waiting!
SHANE GALLAGHER is a long-time Manhattan resident who now resides in Tampa, Florida. He shares his home and life with his two cats, Milo and Snickers, and he recently joined a gay soccer league.
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