I'm so glad that I had the opportunity to attend this year at the DoubleTree, for what could possibly be the last great year for Gay Days. I honestly can't say at this time if myself and my close friends with attend with the date change. This event is it's date. It's the date (first weekend in June) that has made this such an icon event for the LGBT community and the city of Orlando.
The remarks and statements made by the co owner of GayDays to Watermark were ridiculous. Promoting at those other events have never been a deal breaker for scheduling in the past, so why is it such a priority now. And seriously in August when hurricane season, heat and humidity are at their worst. Not to mention school employees and college/University students will be wrapping up their summers and focusing on returning to class and work. Remember these college age individuals are the future of this event, I would think it wise not to alienate them if the longevity of this event is important to you. And to suggest that One Magical Weekend and Girls in Wonderland have been riding GayDays.com's coattails is such a slap in the face to those groups and their years of hard work. Honestly I feel that everyone benefits from everyone, period. It's arrogance like this that has caused the demise of past Pride and circuit events, so check your ego fella before it's too late.
It's in my opinion that there is definitely some conflict between DoubleTree hotel management and GayDays management. What a shame that the city, participants and others will suffer greatly next year. I have always hoped and wished that future generations in the LGBT will get to enjoy the fun and camaraderie that my friends and I have enjoyed off and on for the past 9 years. Perhaps GayDays as we know it is in it's twilight years, but at least myself and the younger generation will have One Magical Weekend next year and for years to follow.
One bright spot, the volunteer that gave me my welcome bag and pool party bands stated very kindly that they were not sure if the location and date change will be permanent. I'm keeping my fingers crossed that this is a one time glitch in the system and that things will return to normal for 2020.