• Feature: 7 Tips for Driving Safely Over Labor Day Weekend
On Tuesday, August 12, I went to the monthly Pride Skate at Xtreme Action Park and once again was a blast with fantastic music by DJ T Promix, performances and tons of skating fun! Check in out every 2nd Tuesday of the month!!
On Thursday, August 14, I had the pleasure of seeing Cirque du Soleil’s tour of OVO at the Amerant Bank Arena and once again Cirque did not disappoint with an incredible show that
they have become known for!!
I have to admit as I get older, I tend to go to Miami less than I use to, but I decided on Friday, August 15, it was time to head down to south beach with friends and enjoy a night at the iconic Twist. As always, Twist was once again amazing, and I got to see a lot of Miami friends including my good friends Herb Sosa (Unity Coalition) and George Coronado and his husband. For those of you who haven’t heard Herb and George recently opened a new LGBTQ+ owned Travel company, which takes you on unique food and city tours of Madrid, Mexico, Lima and beyond. Check them out at Hungrytraveler.us
On Saturday, August 16, The Royal Peacock Studio presented their 2nd annual Super Spectacular Showcase, which was a dance recital for 65 performers that enrolled in their 6-week Performance Workshop series that
culminated with this live, on-stage performance at the Sunshine Cathedral FTL.
culminated with this live, on-stage performance at the Sunshine Cathedral FTL.
On Saturday, August 23, the Bears of South Florida and the Gay Men’s Chorus presented their First Community Sing Along at Hunter’s Nightclub. Everyone was invited to sing along to Broadway, Disney, and other hit songs.
On Saturday, August 23, the Bears of South Florida and the Gay Men’s Chorus presented their First Community Sing Along at Hunter’s Nightclub. Everyone was invited to sing along to Broadway, Disney, and other hit songs.
Also on Saturday, August 23, Katy Perry brought her “The Lifetimes Tour” to the Kaseya Center with special guest Rebecca Black. As always, Katy and her team
Also on Saturday, August 23, Katy Perry brought her “The Lifetimes Tour” to the Kaseya Center with special guest Rebecca Black. As always, Katy and her team killed it!
August 28-September 10
Thursday, August 28
Chocolate City Bar & Grill presents “Open Mic Night,” a night of creativity, artistry, poetry, inspiration, idealism, and unapologetic truths from 7 to 9pm. Tonio Ellison of Hotspots Happening Out is the Emcee. Submit your talent at hotspots.click/openmic
most influential bands. The upcoming shows will lean into blink-182’s punk roots, with a setlist packed with classics spanning their entire catalog. To purchase tickets, or for more information, go to: https://casino.hardrock.com/hollywood/ events
The Seminole Hardrock Hotel and Casino Hollywood presents blink-182 at Hard Rock Live today at 7pm. Mark Hoppus, Tom DeLonge, and Travis Barker’s “Missionary Impossible Tour” follows the release of their latest album “One More Time”, the first album in over a decade with the original trio back in the studio. Featuring the No. 1 singles “Edging” and “One More Time,” the record adds to a legacy that has made blink-182 one of punk rock’s
The Miami Improv presents “An Evening with Kevin Smith today and tomorrow, Friday August 29. Kevin Smith is an American filmmaker, actor, comedian, comic book writer, author, YouTuber, and podcaster. He came to prominence with the low-budget comedy buddy film Clerks (1994), which he wrote, directed, co-produced, and acted in as the character Silent Bob of stoner duo Jay and Silent Bob. Clerks won the "Award of the Youth" and the "Mercedes-Benz Award," and the "Filmmakers Trophy." The film Jay
and Silent Bob also appeared in Smith's later films Mallrats, Chasing Amy, Dogma, Jay and Silent Bob Strike Back, Clerks II, Jay and Silent Bob Reboot, and Clerks III which are set primarily in his home state of New Jersey. He is known for participating in long, humorous Q&A sessions that are often filmed for DVD release, beginning with An Evening with Kevin Smith. For tickets or more information, go to Miamiimprov.com
Friday, August 29
Toyota of Hollywood and CBS Miami (WFOR-TV) are teaming up to host an open casting call for The Price Is Right. Hosted by Drew Carey, The Price Is Right is television’s longest-running game show where audience members try to win cash and prizes. The contestant search will take place inside the Toyota of Hollywood showroom from 10am to 1pm.
The Price Is Right is seeking two enthusiastic semi-finalists who will have an opportunity to be selected as contestants on the show and be flown to Los Angeles, California to see the show live and have a once-in-a-lifetime opportunity to “come on down.” Audition Process: For casting tips, audition advice, more info, or to register please visit cbsnews.com/miami/news/the-price-isright-contestant-search-miami-aug-29-25/..
The Seminole Hardrock Hotel and Casino Hollywood presents Def Leppard at Hard Rock Live today at 8pm. Known for their timeless hits and energetic live shows, the evening will include performances from Def Leppard’s legendary catalog, including chart-topping classics hits like "Pour Some Sugar on Me," "Photograph," and "Love Bites." With over 110 million albums sold, two prestigious U.S. Diamond Awards, and a
Casino.hardrock.com/hollywood/events
The Dania (tonight) and Miami Improv (tomorrow night, August 30) come together to presents Michael Yo: Issa Truuue! Tour with 2 shows each night. A 2-time Emmy nominee, heard on the Joe Rogan Experience, a regular on The Adam Carolla Show and fresh off his critically acclaimed comedy special “I Never Thought," Michael Yo is a comedian, actor and host keeping busy in all of Hollywood’s platforms. Michael came up under the wings of Chelsea Handler and Jo Koy and now headlines all over the country. He also appeared on season 15 of America’s Got Talent; Michael received a yes from all four judges and made it to the Quarter-Finals. Michael can also be heard every weekday on SiriusXM’s Pop2K. He also hosts his own “Yo Show” podcast (Youtube.com/MichaelYoComedy), which often includes conversations with fellow entertainers and influencers. For tickets or more info, go to Daniaimprov.com or Miamiimprov.com.
Saturday, August 30
Hunters Nightclub presents Pop Royale Tea, your new monthly Saturday afternoon Tea Dance (last Saturday of every month) from 4 to 8pm featuring iconic music, and fun vibes starring DJ Drew and TP Lords. This Tea Dance will be a benefit for Sunserve!
Sunday, August 31
Georgie’s Alibi/Monkey Bar has a day filled with entertainment to celebrate Labor Day weekend. At 5pm they feature Spicy Fusion with 2 hotties singing, then at 7pm catch Sunday Shakedown drag show hosted by Mia Starr, then their House of Alibi drag show hosted by Jahsyra moves to
SFAAA Softball
Lauderdale residents receive FREE admission to the Museum on the Last Sunday of Every Month from noon to 5pm. Residents also receive: 2-for-1 Wine in the Museum Café and visit the Museum Café & Store and receive 10% off books published by NSU Art Museum..
Join the ultimate wellness experience with Biohack Miami at The Elser Hotel (398 NE 5th St, Miami). This immersive sunset experience blends cutting-edge biohacking, movement, and recovery with breathtaking water views over the Miami skyline. Engage in a curated lineup of wellness activations, from yoga and breathwork to HIIT training, cold plunges and sound healing. Explore groundbreaking biohacking technologies, including red light therapy, PEMF and vagus nerve stimulation, while sampling premium wellness products from top vendors. VIP admission includes access to a private lounge with premium recovery treatments such as IV therapy, acupuncture, or cupping, valued at $250. Tickets start at $32 with early bird pricing available at sweatpals.com/event/biohack-miami-2f84. Bring a yoga mat, bathing suit and towel, and prepare to reset and recharge.
URGE Miami takes over Rooftop 440 in Wynwood from 10:30pm–5am for a high-energy rooftop celebration under the stars. Headlined by international DJ Liza Rodriguez (making her come back to the decks after having a beautiful baby daughter); Miami’s Cesar Hernandz and the Brazilian Power that is Anne Louise. The event promises cuttingedge music, breathtaking views, and URGE’s signature production that has made it a leader in Miami’s nightlife scene. Known for uniting diverse crowds with world-class talent and electrifying energy, URGE’s Labor Day rooftop edition is set to be the ultimate summer finale. Advance tickets available at Urgemiami.com.
For over 25 years, Gary Santis Events has produced the biggest gay fetish weekend with the Black Fort Lauderdale Festival which culminates with the main party tonight at The Manor Live with doors opening at 11pm. The night stars sexy DJ Erik Vilar and features erotic shows, dancers, a VIP Gear Room and much more! Advance tickets are available at Blackftl2025.eventbrite.com
Monday, September 1
My friends Kevin and Adi at The Club Fort Lauderdale are presenting their annual Labor Day Sale from today through September 8 where you can purchase TEN 3-hour locker passes for $100, which is normally the price of seven; that’s getting three for free!! For more information, go to Clubftl.com
R House Wynwood and Athena Dion present, in honor of Labor Day, a “Slay-Bor Day Brunch” at 1pm hosted by T Lo Ivy and starring D’Vice Dion, Brittish Jay Foxx, And Tayanna Love. The brunch will also feature a
“Labor Day Lewk” Runway contest. For more information, or to make a reservation call 305-576-0201 or visit Rhousewynwood.com.
Friday, September 5
Starting today and going through Sunday the Adriene Arsht Center presents Siempre Flamenco's Festival de Cante Flamenco, inviting audiences to a captivating experience at the 19th edition of this highly anticipated event! This mesmerizing and passionate production focuses on the art of flamenco singing, aka cante flamenco. The soulful, gripping sounds of
cante flamenco, rooted in Spain's medieval music and influenced by Moorish, Gypsy and Jewish traditions, take you on an unforgettable journey. Many styles of cante flamenco are rarely heard outside of Spain. Festival de Cante Flamenco is the only event of its kind presented in the United States. For more information or to purchase tickets, go to Arshtcenter.org
Saturday, Sept. 6
Seminole Hard Rock Hotel and Casino Hollywood in collaboration with the Miami Dolphins will host an unforgettable night of celebration as part of the Dolphins Season Kick-Off Week, presented by Bud Light, from 8 to 11pm leading up to their season opener against the Indianapolis Colts on Sunday, Sept. 7 at 1pm at Lucas Oil Stadium. The Kick-Off Celebration at The Guitar Hotel Pool at Seminole Hard Rock Hollywood will feature live entertainment, the Miami Dolphins Cheerleaders, Dolphins Mascot, T.D., Dolphins Alumni, giveaways, and photo
opportunities. Tickets are on sale now and start at $75 at myHRL.com. Each ticket includes access to the event, an all-inclusive drink package, and exclusive Miami Dolphins Season Kick-Off merchandise. Must be 21+ to attend. For more info, go to Seminolehardrockhollywood.com.
Arts United Gallery presents their opening reception for Hispanic Heritage Month “Canvas de Cultura.” This is a visual Art Juried Exhibition from 7 to 10pm with the awards announced at 8:30pm. For more information go to Artsunitedflorida.com
Tuesday September 9
Tonight is the monthly Pride Skate, NOW the 2nd Tuesday of every month. Pride Skate is a benefit for Stonewall Pride and takes place at Xtreme Action Park from 7-10pm and stars DJ T-Pro with performances by Velvet Lenore and Rianna Petrone. Buy your tickets online at Xtremeactionpark.com or purchase them at the door. REMEMBER, it is now the 2nd Tuesday of every month!
Wednesday, September 10
The Miami Improv presents Kristin Key. Kristin is a nationally headlining, queer, musical comedian with sold-out shows nationwide. Her hilarious viral videos — including the iconic LESBIAN NATIONAL ANTHEM — have garnered over 92.2 million views from more than 590,000+ dedicated followers across social media. Using comedy to uplift her community and create safe spaces for comedy fans from all walks of life, More than a fandom, this is a movement! She’s got 6 full-length comedy albums & 1 DryBar comedy special and has appeared on NBC’S Bring the Funny & Last Comic Standing, VH-1, SiriusXM, and more. To purchase tickets or for more info, go to Miamiimprov.com
It was a pleasure to once again sit down with Vanessa “Vanjie” Mateo for this exclusive Hotspots interview: We haven’t spoken in quite a few years, so how has your life changed?
I mean drastically…to a point I would never have imagined half the stuff I have done, and that I am still able to travel and work. I am so happy I don’t have to think too much as that isn’t my strongest suit. You have traveled the world many times, do you have a favorite city or venue?
One of my favorites is “Gay London” with Jeremy as he is family. He booked me in the very beginning and it’s always a very fun gig. We all saw your dating show, “Vanjie: 24 hours of Love,” are you in a relationship now?
No, I ended up dating that guy for a while but now I am single. What makes perfect guy for you?
I don’t know because if I did, I would have him by
now.
How was your experience on All Stars?
It was a lot of fun and I got to compete with a bunch of people that were the gladiators of the drag world, and of course I got to raise money for charity. It was amazing. And I looked good!
How was it to shoot for Marco Ovando’s 3rd installment of “Dolls,” and how did it feel to be on the cover?
It was a gag for me to be on the cover as he never told me. I did the photos right after all stars, and getting to work with Marco is always a privilege. He has also become one of my dearest friends. Describe yourself in 3 words?
Psychotic, Crazy, and Vanjie
What do you do for fun?
Sit at the house and enjoy my personal time. Also, I love going to movies with my mom.
What does the future hold for Vanjie?
Hopefully to keep working. But I try not to plan too much as the sky is the limit. What should our readers expect from this incarnation of Werq The World Tour?
This is where you come to get your crème dela crème of drag shows. It’s a fierce show and they put a lot of money into it. It’s an amazing cast and the productions are incredible. The audience definitely gets their money’s worth. It’s a grade A prime meat type of show…this is not Hamburger Helper. We get to provide an escape after everything that is going on in the world and I hope everyone comes out to see us!
Tickets are available now at WerqTheWorld.com, with a limited number of VIP packages also available, including exclusive meet-and-greet opportunities with the queens.
Dolls Volume 3 will be available at select tour stops on the 2025 Werq the World Tour and available online at www.marcovando.com and www.vossevents.com. Orders will begin shipping on September 1.
“If The Shoe Fits” as a new national competition offering Drag Stars around the United States, for the first time ever, the chance to become the STAR of the annual Key West New Years Eve High Heel Shoe Drop, as covered internationally by CNN and entering its 28th year. Presented by Bourbon Street Pub, the Key West Tourism Development Council (TDC) and STOLI Vodka, “If The Shoe Fits” will visit five cities across the United States beginning Wednesday, September 3rd with its launch at the Round-Up Saloon and Dance Hall in Dallas, Texas. The tour continues throughout September, bringing five finalists total to Key West for the October 4th finale live on Duval Street outside New Orleans House/Bourbon Street Pub at the exact location of the annual New Years Eve High Shoe Drop. Each year, thousands of revelers from around the world surround the stage on New Years Eve for a three-hour production covered live by CNN, culminating with a fabulous Drag Star descending in a big red high heel shoe at
The finalist who best represents the original “Queen of New Years”, drag and fashion icon Sushi,” as well as the creativity and talent of Christopher Peterson and Randy Roberts who, after 25 years of Sushi, started the new tradition of a new queen every year will win the 28th annual spot in the shoe on December 31st, 2025 including a paid performance stipend and five days of accommodations courtesy of Bourbon Street Pub and the TDC, and round-trip flights for two courtesy of five-star men’s resort Island House Key West.
“When we found out SUSHI was planning to retire on the 25th anniversary of the Shoe Drop in 2022, it was immediately clear no-one could replace her exactly, and that this could be an opportunity to give a chance to amazing Drag Stars both within and beyond Key West to bring their own style and talent to our unique New Years Eve extravaganza”, said Joey Schroeder, creator of the High Heel Shoe Drop and
owner of Bourbon Street Pub and its sister business New Orleans House. “After two amazing years of Key West legends Christopher Peterson and Randy Roberts “wowing” the shoe drop audience with live vocal performances, thanks to a generous grant from the Key West Tourism Development Council and the production support of STOLI, it is possible to embark on this much-anticipated tour to find the new Queen of New Years Eve in Key West, where things are always ‘Close To Perfect-Far From Normal’.” Contestants will participate in three categories at each event, as detailed below:
1. Introductions/First Impression all contestants answering the question “Why should YOU be the Key West Queen of New Years Eve 2025?”
2. Talent: Show us how you will WOW the thousands of people gathered on Duval Street when you are introduced onstage on December 31st before climbing into the
In addition, a STOLI Cocktail Mini-Challenge will be featured during the regional events, with 3 bartenders at each host venue invited to create their own Key West Shoe Drop inspired STOLI cocktail feature, to be presented to our judges during a break in each of the three sections
“STOLI has a long history of creatively supporting our LGBTQ+ bartender community as well as celebrating the diverse talents of our hard-working Drag Stars and entertainers around the world”, said Patrik Gallineaux, Global LGBTQ+ Ambassador for Stoli Group and emcee of the live event series. “It is beyond exciting-and extremely important at this time to bring heightened visibility to the positive contributions of these artists through the inaugural ‘If the Shoe Fits’ national tour.”
The 2025 “If the Shoe Fits” tour itinerary is below:
•Wednesday, September 3rd in Dallas, Texas at The Round-Up Saloon and Dance Hall: 8pm doors, 9pm show
•Saturday, September 6th in West Hollywood, California at The Abbey Food and Bar: 3pm doors, 4pm show
•Wednesday, September 17th in New York, NY at RedEye NYC: 6pm doors,
•7pm show
•Monday, September 22nd in Fort Lauderdale, Florida at Aquaplex FTL: 7pm doors, 8pm show
•FINALE: Saturday, October 4th in Key West outside Bourbon Street Pub: 8pm show
Guests can look forward to giveaways from the island of Key West, STOLI cocktail specials and surprises, and a fantastic show with no cover charge. All prizing is courtesy of the TDC, Bourbon Street Pub, and Island House Key West.
Visit www.facebook.com/iftheshoefitskw to RSVP/more program information and https://fla-keys.com to discover why the Keys are “Close To Perfect-Far From Normal.” For inquiries, including to participate in events, please e-mail: iftheshoefitskw@gmail.com.
All guests and participants must be 21+.
