It started with a small gathering of friends. Jay and Tony took a friendly gathering in Orlando and made it into a brand. Since 2011, Big Boy Pride has been a refuge for same-gender-loving men of size looking for a place to fit in. If you’re looking for community, Big Boy Pride 2016 is a four-day event from April 7 -11 created to foster empowerment and brotherhood. R&B Divas Keke Wyatt and Terisa Griffin will perform live. There are pool parties, group discussions, seminars, cocktail parties and lots of other activities. The seminars range from topics on health and relationship advice to financial growth and stability. Group activities foster camaraderie and cultivate an atmosphere of togetherness. There will be live entertainment, shows, around the clock access to club events, drink tickets and many meals are covered.

While Big Boy Pride is attended mainly by men of color, all same-gender-loving men of size and those who love and support them are welcome.  This environment is about cultivating brotherhood, self-love and good-natured fun. You must be at least 21 years of age. The Parliament House is the official host hotel and where most events will take place.  Currently the Parliament House is sold out, but Big Boy Pride offers reserved off-site lodging at the Courtyard Marriott. Both hotels are located in downtown Orlando Florida. If you’re staying at either hotel, you must make your reservation through www.bigboypride.com  You may opt to pay just the participant fee and arrange your own housing at other facilities or with friends in the area.

The Parliament House offers so much at an affordable rate. There are 6 bars and clubs right on site, a pool and man-made beach, security, privacy and is welcoming to same-gender-loving guests.

The Big Boy Pride Participants Package includes:

• Access to all Big Boy Pride Events
• Free entrance to all club/bar events and shows at Parliament House
• BBP Cocktail Card for BBP Cocktail Hours
• Spontaneous Open Bars
• Meet, Greet and Eat
• Lakeside BBQ
• BBP Gift Bag
• Pool Party​

While the rooms at the Parliament House are very basic, clearly people prefer staying on site since it’s currently sold out. If you are looking for 3-star hotel or above, this is not the hotel for you. But with as little time as you will spend in the room, the advantages of staying on property becomes a lot more apparent. It’s where everything and everyone else is located. And there will be lots of Big Boys in attendance. Many attendees speak of making life-long connections and meeting people they’ve only seen through social media for the first time.

While there will be some meal provided, you should expect to cover your own food each day.  Admission to the off-site clubs in the area range from $5-$15 and are not provided by Big Boy Pride registration. During cocktail hours, you may use your BBP card for a limited amount of drinks in the BBP Hospitality Suite. Orlando has plenty of outlet and regular malls. You’ll be provided pamphlets that contain information about shopping and other activities in the Orlando area. While there will be some free time built into the schedule, don’t expect to have enough time to visit too many other Orlando attractions. However, you are free to travel off site locations whenever you want.​​​​​

For more information visit www.bigboypride.com

Male Media Mind,  Interviews Jay King Holiday: