In a time of year when rain can start falling from blue skies, it was a sunny, dry and fun day on the water for FLoatarama. The annual flotilla made its way through Fort Lauderdale’s waterways in a fabulous kickoff to Pride week. 

“Our team thinks the weekend was a smashing success,” FLoatarama President Scott Schramm said. “We were able to have a great party, and promote FLoatarama with so many new people.”

Dozens of boats, led by a VIP barge, made their way through New River, decked out with lots of rainbow regalia and blasting music. The event began three years ago as a pandemic era workaround to mass gathering rules. Now a philanthropic fundraiser, it kicks off Pride in the most South Florida way possible.

Rep. Debbie Wasserman Schultz (D-FL 25) served as grand marshal and took time to chat with guests and pose for pictures. That she would commit to an event like this shows her support for the LGBT community. Most times, an aide could play the bad guy and announce it’s time to leave. But when you’re on a boat, there’s nowhere to go.

“Look at the environment we’re in. There’s nothing better than floating along the New River,” she said.

Despite the fun, she said partiers need to remember there is work to be done.

“This is an incredible crowd. People who want to make sure we can come together as a community, state, and country to support the LGBTQ+ community, support Pride, and make sure we can take back our state and pushback on the horrendous persecution coming from the leadership at the top of this state.”

“She was fantastic and such a delight to spend the afternoon with,” Schramm said.

The total money raised will be released later, and funds will be dispersed at a party later this year.

“From a donation point of view, this sets us up for a very good grant season this year, which we will announce the amount later in the season,” Schramm said.