Summer is in full swing, so get your bags packed for some upcoming LGBT events!
Sand Blast returns to Atlantic City
There is nothing like a beach dance party in the summer. Sand Blast Atlantic City returns this weekend with three days and nights filled with 13 parties that promise fun and perhaps a little naughtiness too — especially at the very-late-night Raw underwear party and Skinny Dip pool party at the Claridge Hotel.
The weekend kicks off for everyone at the “Lost at Sea” party at the Borgata Hotel, Casino and Spa — part of the property’s ongoing LGBT effort, aptly named “Out At Borgata.” Saturday is for the ladies at Borgata. Ladies 2000 Tea Dance starts at 5 p.m. at Borgata’s swanky Mur-Mur nightclub, followed by a performance from the ever-funny Margaret Cho in Borgata’s intimate Music Box venue. The Women’s White Party starts at 10 p.m. but moves to the Claridge Hotel’s intimate Club 11 across town.
If you are not one to party until the sun comes up, Sand Blast has two daytime parties that might be just right for you. The Rip Tide daytime party will be held on Saturday at the fabulous Bally’s Rooftop Pool and Spa Deck, with dramatic ocean views and a private space for the party. Sunday, the main Sand Blast Beach Party will return to the sexy Bungalow Beach Bar. Don’t miss Brittany Lynn on Sunday on the boardwalk for a performance with her Drag Mafia and the annual drag race.
For the nighttime revelers, Deep Blue at the Resorts Superstar Theater is the main event. Last year, Resorts transformed its theater into a dramatic nightclub, reminiscent of Studio 54 and Roxy.
Tickets are still available. Borgata and Claridge are the host hotels but rooms are limited. For an event schedule and to purchase tickets, visit www.sandblastweekend.com.
Baltimore Pride
Baltimore will celebrate Pride for its 40th year July 24-26. Despite what you might have seen on CNN this past April following the Freddie Grey protests, tourists will not notice anything different on this trip. As we wrote about in the March “Outward Bound” column, venerable Baltimore remains fabulous, sophisticated and affordable.
Baltimore Pride promises perks for travelers looking for a range of LGBTQ entertainment. Saturday’s Block Party performances will include the iconic voice from hit song “It’s Raining Men” Martha Wash, Cazwell from the hilarious hip-hop sensation “No Selfie Control” and YouTube star Ts Madison.
Sunday focuses in on Druid Hill Park with a full-day festival featuring country crooner Steve Grand, regional and local performers, vendors, the Lady Lisa Memorial Drag Stage and a Family Zone. Visit www.baltimoregaypride.org for a complete list.
R Family and Olivia Travel Team Up
R Family Vacations and Olivia Travel, two of the most significant forces in the LGBT travel industry, recently announced a fully chartered, all-inclusive week at the Hard Rock Vallarta Resort in Puerto Vallarta next summer, July 9-16.
This powerhouse partnership brings together the best of these two incredible travel companies. The trip will be a week of mixing “R Family” signature entertainment and programming along with the top-of-the-line entertainment for women by Olivia. Everyone is welcome: men and women, LGBT or straight, and family and friends of all ages.
The weeklong trip starts at $1,499 per adult and $399 per child. The price includes accommodations for eight days and seven nights, meals in six restaurants, plus beverages and most activities.
Trip organizers say they expect an early sell-out. Call 917-522-0985 or email [email protected] to book your vacation. To reserve your space, a $250 per adult and $100 per child deposit is required. R Family also announced a new monthly payment plan. Tip: It is best to shop around for airfare to Mexico to find the lowest price.