Bears and pigs, pups and masters, rubber and leather enthusiasts; South Florida’s fetish community was out, loud, and proud Thursday night. Organizers welcomed everyone, no matter their kink or fetish.

“This is an event for visibility of the leather and fetish community,” organizer Steven Crespo said. “We want to show the community we are here and proud of who we are. We’re not just hiding in a bar.”

The march started at Richardson Park and went down Wilton Drive, with a few stops for adult beverage rehydration. The group of about 50 eventually ended at Eagle for a flag raising ceremony.

The march and flag raising mark the start of Florida Leather Weekend, which is put on by Eagle. Friday, Nov. 15 is Mr. Eagle Wilton Manors Contest.

Crespo is the reigning Mr. Eagle 2024. When asked which qualities he’s looking for in his replacement, he got emotional. “Someone who is community driven, focused and will give their time.”

Saturday is Boundless, an alternative lifestyle block party featuring entertainment, art, and demos.

The goal of the weekend is to reflect and recognize each group. As they marched down Wilton Drive, many held flags representing everything from the bear community to trans.

“We have many likes, many loves,” Crespo said. “Each flag represents each one of us. It’s good for people to see how we’re all represented.”