Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
Pride events are a way to engage and strengthen relationships among the LGBTQ community and its allies. On Saturday, November 20,2021 the third Pride festival will be held in Venice, FL from 11AM to 4PM on the church grounds of SunCoast MCC. Senior Co-Pastors at SunCoast Metropolitan Community Church, Reverend Dr. Nancy Wilson and Reverend Vickie Miller are welcoming the LGBTQ community and allies locally to join them in celebration. Visibility and coming out is important in the journey to support human rights for everyone. In 2018, the first festival was successfully held with over 500 people participating and more than doubled in 2019. Unfortunately, due to the pandemic, we were unable to host in 2020. Venice FL Pride will offer a variety of activities, including speakers, vendors selling their wares, entertainers, Pet Blessing and other fun things. SunCoast Metropolitan Community Church is hosting this 2021 Pride event with the goal to build a community of vendors, sponsors and community allies who will also join in this annual celebration. The theme for this event is “Out and Proud” to acknowledge and make visible the diversity and strength of our community and allies. Absolutely not! Everyone is welcome. Bring your family and friends. Your participation sends an important message that we are one community. Complete and submit your registration online or print and mail with your tax deductable check made payable to Venice Pride Inc. by November 1, 2021. Send checks to Venice Florida Pride Inc. 3276 E Venice Avenue, Venice, FL 34292. SPONSORS: There are several sponsorship levels. If you are interested in being a Sponsor, please complete and submit your registration and check by September 16, 2018. Make your tax-deductible checks payable to SunCoast MCC and send to 3276 E. Venice Avenue, Venice, FL 34292. Gold $1,000 and above Silver $500-$999 Bronze $250-$499 Rainbow $100-$249 Sponsors will receive a free vendor space with a table and two chairs to display/advertise their business/organization. Bring your own tent. If you so choose, sponsors will be honored in a variety of news channels, social media, flyers, press releases, posters, and other festival advertising materials. VENDORS: Vendors spaces are $75 per space and includes a table and two chairs. Bring your own tent. To become a sponsor or vendor is easy. You can print out the forms and mail to Venice Pride Inc. (or) you can register online. Click on the Vendors/Sponsors section of the website. Venice FL Pride is run entirely by volunteers from the planning of the event to assisting during the event as well as everything else it takes to keep us going. Please email info@veniceFLpride.com or visit our website veniceflpride.com to volunteer. The blessing of pets and animals is often celebrated on October 4, the Feast of St. Francis of Assisi. St. Francis is the Patron Saint of Animals. Therefore, it is customary that in remembrance of St. Francis of Assisi’s love for all creatures, animals are led to churches for a special ceremony called the “Blessing of the Animals.” Every year, millions of animals are blessed in a ceremony that touches the hearts of most of those in attendance. A Blessing of Animals witnesses to God’s love, care, and concern for creation. We chose to celebrate this Blessing at our Venice Pride Festival as many of our LGBT friends and allies usually have a pet. General info@veniceFLpride.com | (941) 484-7068 Media ggwpws@gmail.com The admission and parking are free. Food will be available for purchase.Why a Venice, FL Pride Event?
Who is hosting the Venice, FL Pride Event?
Do I need to be a member of the LGBTQ community to participate?
What kind of sponsorship/vendor opportunities are available?
How can I sign-up to be a volunteer?
Why a Blessing of Pets?
Who do I contact for more information?
What is the admission cost?