2026 Naples Pride Gala
"The Colors don't run"
This years theme, These Color’s Don’t Run is born from the strength and perseverance of our community. From Stonewall to today,
we’ve faced hate, hardship, and erasure yet every time, we’ve risen stronger. Every attempt to silence us is met with strength, unity and unshakable love. We do not break. We rise!
Enjoy an unforgettable evening with a gourmet dinner, bold cocktails, dazzling entertainment, an exclusive silent auction, and a dance floor
that celebrates joy, unity, and defiance.
Dress Code: Black Tie with a Pride Color Flair.
Be the color against our white room as together we flood the space with the vibrant hues of the rainbow to show the world that: Our voices will not be silenced. Our joy will not be stolen. Our colors will never fade.
Gala Schedule
Location: Naples Grande Beach Resort
VIP Parking
5:30 PM – Cocktail Reception
6:30 PM – Dinner & Program
Silent & Live Auction
Entertainment & Live Music
This night is more than just a party—it’s a statement. At a time when our LGBTQ+ community faces mounting challenges, Naples Pride remains a beacon of love, resilience, and empowerment. Since its founding in 2017 as Pride with a Purpose, Naples Pride has worked tirelessly to foster inclusion, equality, and support.
As the only LGBTQ+ resource center in Southwest Florida, Naples Pride Center provides lifesaving programs to those who need them most. From free mental health services and a walk-in health clinic to support groups and social events for individuals and families, scholarships, and guidance for families navigating their LGBTQ+ journeys, our mission is to uplift, support, and create a safe space for all.
We are also proud to grow our Business Alliance Directory, connecting inclusive businesses and strengthening the community by fostering economic empowerment and support.
Your attendance fuels this mission, ensuring that we can continue to serve, advocate, and create a world where everyone is celebrated for who they are.
Help our cause by contributing to our fundraising efforts. All donations are tax-deductible and go directly toward supporting our mission. No act of generosity is too small to make a difference.
For questions about sponsorships, please contact Cori Craciun at cori@naplespride.org
By providing your email, you may be contacted by Naples Pride with information and opportunities to take action.
If you need to mail a check for your sponsorship, please click below to download a printable Gala package to include with your payment.
The package also includes an auction form for anyone wishing to donate an auction item.
Thank you for your support!
We’re thrilled to announce Eric Swanson as the MC for the First Annual Naples Pride Gala! A celebrated actor, artist, and advocate, Eric has captivated audiences in La Cage Aux Folles, Hairspray, and Chicago and shines as his live-singing drag persona, Miss Bouvèé. As co-founder of The Detroit Actor’s Theatre Company and star of the award-winning indie film Big Easy Queens, his influence on the arts and LGBTQIA+ advocacy is profound. Get ready for a timeless experience as Eric brings his signature charisma and energy to our inaugural gala!
We’re excited to announce that The Collaboration Band will be bringing their unforgettable sound to the Naples Pride Gala—with a special twist to match our Golden Glamour 1920s theme! This powerhouse group of veteran musicians is known for their soulful, high-energy performances, blending the best of Motown, R&B, and jazz-infused swing—perfect for a night of Roaring Twenties elegance with a modern groove! With the incomparable Ms. Verceal Whitaker, former lead vocalist of The Platters, delivering stunning vocals, alongside Willie Miller, Steve LaValley, Brad Brown, and Alonzo "Zo" Smith, this band will transport us back in time while keeping the dance floor alive! Think speakeasy vibes, swinging rhythms, and classic hits that will have you moving all night long!
We're thrilled to announce that DJ Kooshie, the sound of Naples Pride since our very first festival, will also be spinning at our first-ever Naples Pride Gala! 🎧✨ From clubs to festivals, his sets are pure magic—a perfect fusion of rhythm, energy, and love for the music. A dedicated ally from the start, DJ Kooshie has been bringing our community together on the dance floor, and we can’t wait for him to set the vibe for this unforgettable night!
We're delighted to announce that the dynamic and captivating vocalist, Deanna Maio, will be joining our incredible lineup of entertainers for our first annual Naples Pride Gala! 🎤✨ Known for her soulful sound, velvety vocals, and magnetic stage presence, Deanna brings a modern twist to timeless classics, drawing inspiration from legends like Ella Fitzgerald, Peggy Lee, and Adele. With a three-octave range and over 40 years of experience as a singer, producer, and teacher, she has dazzled audiences across the U.S. at corporate events, private parties, and upscale venues. Whether leading a jazz ensemble or delivering a show-stopping solo performance, Deanna creates an unforgettable musical experience—and we can’t wait for her to bring that magic to the Naples Pride Gala!