Pictured: On June 1, Project Pride SRQ will present Grand Carnival In Bloom, with proceeds benefiting Project Pride's programs and events Provided photo/Project Pride.

As local organization Project Pride SRQ settles into its cheerful new headquarters in the Rosemary District, it is now kicking things into high gear with two major special events to mark Pride Month in June. On June 1, it will present the Grand Carnival In Bloom; on June 8, it will be a partner in offering Silver Pride Sarasota. Event organizers are looking forward to launching Pride Month in grand style with the Grand Carnival In Bloom, an enchanting evening filled with flowers, a DJ spinning today's hits, cool country performances (artists to be named soon), and delightful surprises. Dive Bar Wine & Spirits will be on-site to craft specialty cocktails that will elevate the experience, and some of Sarasota's finest restaurants will tantalize guests’ taste buds with lite bites and desserts. The Grand Carnival takes place on Saturday, June 1, 8-11 p.m. at the Sailor Circus Arena (2075 Bahia Vista St., Sarasota). Tickets, which include open bar, food and entertainment, are $125/VIP (enables early entry at 7 p.m.), $85/general admission; door price is $150, subject to availability. Major sponsors include CAN Community Health, Gulf Coast Community Foundation, McCarver & Moser, and SRQ Beats. Proceeds from the event will support Project Pride’s programs and events. On June 8, Project Pride, Senior Friendship Centers and Golden Girls Solutions will present Silver Pride Sarasota, celebrating LGBTQ+ ages 50 and better. This free event celebrates our senior members of the LGBTQ+ community; the afternoon program will feature live music, vendors, food trucks, and more from community partners. Takes place on Saturday, June 8, 12-5 p.m. at Senior Friendship Center (1888 Brother Geenen Way, Sarasota). Valet and individual parking will be available on-site. Booth space is available to interested businesses and organizations; deadline to sign up is May 15, 2024. Sponsors of $500-$1,500 are also welcome. For more about Project Pride and its Pride Month events, visit www.ppsrq.org.

Pictured: On June 1, Project Pride SRQ will present Grand Carnival In Bloom, with proceeds benefiting Project Pride's programs and events Provided photo/Project Pride.