Winter Park lit up with color, emotion, and community spirit on Thursday evening as people came together to celebrate Pride Month, Juneteenth, and the city’s special “Flip of the Switch” event.
The celebration took place at the Winter Park Events Center, where the building was beautifully illuminated in rainbow colors to show support for the LGBTQ+ community.
The event wasn’t just about Pride. It was also about recognizing the importance of Juneteenth, the day that marks the end of slavery in the United States.
Speakers at the event reminded everyone why this day matters so much and how far we’ve come, but also how much work still needs to be done.
Winter Park’s Vice Mayor, Sheila DeCiccio, shared heartfelt words about the meaning of the event. She talked about the importance of inclusion, freedom, and remembering history. She called the evening a time to reflect on justice, unity, and what it means to truly care for one another.
One of the most powerful moments was when the building’s lights were turned on — the “flip of the switch.”
This was a symbolic gesture to celebrate both Pride Month and Juneteenth, showing that Winter Park stands for love, acceptance, and equality. As the building lit up in rainbow and red-green-black colors, people clapped, smiled, and took photos to remember the moment.
Many community members and city officials attended, and the atmosphere was filled with energy and hope. The event also featured music, speakers, and friendly conversations. For many, it was a reminder that coming together as a community can create real change and understanding.
Winter Park has been holding this event for the past three years, and each year it grows stronger. It brings people from all walks of life to celebrate who they are and to honor the history and struggles of others.
Events like these send a powerful message — that everyone belongs, that history should be remembered, and that the future can be brighter if we stand together.
The night ended with laughter, music, and shared moments of reflection, leaving many people inspired and hopeful. As the lights continued to glow, Winter Park once again proved that it’s a community that values equality, freedom, and unity for all.