One Magical Weekend returned with a magical experience

Courtesy of One Magical Weekend

Written by Christopher L. Antie

Inside the over 30 years of One Magical Weekend

Last weekend, Will and I had the absolute pleasure of broadcasting live from the 35th anniversary of One Magical Weekend, one of the most iconic LGBTQ+ celebrations held in and around the Walt Disney World Resort. From June 4–8, more than 72 hours of nonstop events, music, and community transformed Orlando into a vibrant playground of pride, unity, and pure joy.

Thursday: A Warm Welcome to the Magic

We arrived mid‑afternoon on June 4th, grabbed an amazing lunch with a friend, and checked into the host hotel—the Sheraton Lake Buena Vista—our home base for the weekend’s adventure.

That evening, we watched behind‑the‑scenes setup unfold before the early pool party kicked off. As the sun set, the energy shifted into full celebration mode with the #TBT Welcome Party. Daisy Dior and Roxxy Andrews lit up the stage alongside Pineapple Healthcare and show producer Ethan Suarez. It was the perfect orientation for what the next few days would bring: excitement, community, and a whole lot of dancing.

Friday: The Weekend Officially Begins

Friday, June 5th, marked the official start of the weekend’s signature events.

The Gay Biz Expo opened with ticket pickup, pride resources, giveaways, and themed merchandise. Just outside, the Sheraton’s main pool area transformed into a rainforest‑themed oasis—Speedos, sunshine, and a guest DJ creating the perfect therapy session before the first major party of the season.

That night, Riptide took over Disney’s Typhoon Lagoon. The weather was perfect, the surf pool glowed under the night sky, and Disney brought out some magical surprises to elevate the experience. DJs were stationed throughout the park, attractions were open exclusively for attendees, and the atmosphere was electric.

But the night didn’t end at 2 a.m. Cadabra After Hours rolled in at the host hotel, keeping the party alive until 8 a.m. with the unmistakable energy of a true circuit event.

Saturday: Community, Connection, and The Red Party

Saturday morning reopened the Gay Biz Expo and brought everyone back to the pool for another packed‑out DJ session. One Magical Weekend has always been a place where everyone is welcomed exactly as they are, and that spirit was alive and thriving.

As Darcy Christ beautifully put it: “We’re all part of one big family, and that’s what I love about it.”

After grabbing a bite to eat, we headed to Disney Springs for the second signature event: The Red Party at the House of Blues. Ringmasters, circus performers, and a sea of red‑clad fans filled the venue. The dance floor pulsed with energy, drinks flowed, and even when the vodka threatened to run out, the vibe never dipped. We left with clouded heads and full hearts, ready for another round of Cadabra back at the Sheraton.

Sunday: Pride, Reflection, and a Grand Finale

By Sunday, we were sunburnt, tired, and still smiling.

We kicked off the day by meeting Chantel Reshae for a heartfelt conversation about why Pride matters and why we continue to celebrate. Her words were a reminder of the deeper meaning behind the glitter and music.

The final Therapy Pool Party kept the Sheraton buzzing all afternoon before the third signature event: A Night of 1000s, themed around Ariana Grande. Fans arrived in their best Ari‑inspired looks, singing along to her hits as if the diva herself were on stage.

The night—and the weekend—closed with one last Cadabra After Hours, carrying us straight into Monday morning.

A Weekend That Never Disappoints

Thirty‑five years in, One Magical Weekend remains as lavish, welcoming, and unforgettable as ever. It’s more than a party—it’s a family reunion, a celebration of identity, and a reminder of the magic we create when we come together.

And this year? It was truly one for the books.

As the final beats faded and the sun rose over Orlando, one truth remained unmistakable: One Magical Weekend continues to be one of the most iconic, lavish, and unforgettable celebrations of pride and community anywhere in the world. Whether you’re a longtime attendee or someone considering your first trip, this is the kind of experience that stays with you long after the music stops. Will and I are deeply grateful to have spent yet another year—of years of consecutive returns—sharing the magic, the stories, and the heart of this event with all of you. And as long as this community keeps shining, we’ll keep coming back, ready to celebrate, uplift, and welcome everyone into the family that makes One Magical Weekend truly one of a kind.

Source: ChrisWill Media

About the Authors: Christopher L. Antie and William Antie are podcast journalists who cover a wide range of topics across multiple industries. To learn more about Chris and Will, tune in to their podcast What About Our Life? on iHeartRadio, and visit chrisandwill.com.