St. Pete Pride is no doubt recognized for its massive celebration on Central Avenue in the heat of June each year. But the organization is working around the year to raise money for other LGBT organizations and to fund its ever growing presence. That’s why board members are hoping this year’s Red & Green holiday celebration at Sunken Gardens will be a hit.
“This helps keep the festival free and allows us to give even more back to the community,” said St. Pete Pride executive director Chris Rudisill. “The long term goal is to see this event grow and build up our community grand program
This is the second year for Red & Green and the first time it’s been at Sunken Gardens, which is a property of the City of St. Petersburg.
“This just furthers our relationship with the city and it gives us a chance to explore a truly beautiful and unique property right here in St. Petersburg,” said Rudisill.
The 100-year-old Sunken Gardens is an outdoor attraction at 1825 4th St. N. boasting more than 50,000 kinds of tropical plants. St. Pete Pride has been given access to the entire park for the Red & Green event.
“We actually began working with Sunken Gardens through our advertising agreement in the St. Pete Pride Program,” Rudisill said. “From there our relationship grew and I knew this would be a great location for our holiday celebration.”
The party is on Saturday, Dec. 10 from 6-10 p.m. and tickets include a full open bar and cuisine provided by Orange Blossom Catering.
Rudisill added that live entertainment will be provided by the Al Downing Tampa Jazz Association, featuring Rose Bilal and friends, Iman, and lesbian duo Sara and Toni G.
“We’re expecting between 200 and 250 people this year,” Rudisill said, adding that last year’s inaugural event brought in an estimated 100 holiday revelers.
Tickets are $75 each or two-for $130. Only a limited number of tickets are available so those interested are encouraged to purchase theirs early online at StPetePride.com.
For each ticket sold, an entry is placed into a raffle for tickets to see Patti LaBelle at Ruth Eckerd Hall on Feb. 1.
