The Inaugural Be You Ball Gala is Here! What to Know Before You Go.

Event Details: Saturday, October 11, 2025 | The Diplomat Beach Resort | Hollywood, Florida. Doors Open and Cocktail Reception at 6:00 PM | Gala Program at 8:00 PM

About the Evening:

The National LGBTQ Task Force Gala presents the Be You Ball, a bold reimagining of our annual gala celebrating queer power, joy, and resilience. Hosted by Dominique Jackson, actress, advocate, and ballroom icon, this year’s event promises extraordinary performances, an inspiring awards presentation, and a celebration of South Florida’s LGBTQ leaders.

We will honor David Jobin, CEO and President of Our Fund Foundation, with the Eddy McIntyre Community Service Award, recognizing his lifetime of service and dedication to queer liberation. The evening will also feature international drag star Athena Dion and a special performance by the Gay Men’s Chorus of South Florida, along with appearances and performances from ballroom icons Joey Young, Gadfrie Arbulu, TP Lords and Tayanna Love.  

Event Details:

• Date: Saturday, October 11, 2025
• Doors Open & Cocktail Reception: 6:00 PM
• Gala Program: 8:00 PM
• Location: The Diplomat Beach Resort, Hollywood, FL – Great Hall 3 (take the elevators to the 3rd floor)
• Dress Code: Expressive evening wear, bold, elegant, and unapologetically you
• Program Includes: Cocktail reception, dinner, awards presentation, live performances, and after-party

Silent Auction & Gift Pickup Instructions:

Some silent auction items are available on-site, while others will be sent electronically to winners after the event.

Please check in at the registration area to confirm your winning items. Staff will provide details on where to pick up any physical items and when to expect digital deliveries.

How to Support:

Your generosity helps power the movement for LGBTQ liberation. To make a contribution during the evening, simply scan the QR code displayed on the screens or on the postcards on your table to access our donation platform. Every gift makes a difference and directly supports the work of the National LGBTQ Task Force.

A Few Final Notes:

• Registration: Please have your name or digital ticket ready upon arrival
• Parking: Valet parking is $25, and self parking is $20 at the resort 
• Accessibility: The Diplomat Beach Resort is fully accessible; please inform staff if you need assistance 
• Social Media: Share your night with #BeYouBall and help light up National Coming Out Day  

Be You Ball Gala After-Party:

When: Immediately after the gala program until 2:00 AM

Where: Pre-function space outside the Great Hall ballroom at The Diplomat 

Entertainment:

• DJ Bill James keeping the dance floor moving all night
• Live spotlights by TP Lords, Tayanna Love, Athena Dion, and Gadfrie Arbulu

Drinks:

Hosted open bar with four bars throughout the space, featuring a specialty cocktail created for the evening

Late-Night Bites:

Cafecito station with pastries and empanadas to keep the celebration going

Invite Your Friends!
If you have friends who can’t make it to the main Be You Ball, they can still join the celebration. After-party tickets are on sale here.

See you at the Ball. Come ready to celebrate, connect, and honor the power of simply being you.