Tempted by the serpent, Adam and Eve discovered enlightenment and carnal pleasures in the Garden of Eden. This Friday’s Wicked Manors Eden After Dark Temptation Awaits is sure to feature plenty of carnal pleasures and serpents. Enlightenment is TBD.
The annual Halloween party runs up and down Wilton Drive between NE 21st Court to NE 11th Avenue from 6 p.m. through 11 p.m., though the street will be closed most of the day for set up.
Safety Firsts
Concerns over security have continued to grow over the past few years. This will be the first time metal detectors will be used at entrances. They were previously used during Stonewall Pride in June. They are credited with helping stop an armed man who crashed the gate. However, the charges were misdemeanor trespass and appear to have been dropped.
Despite being on a public street, Wicked Manors is a private, ticketed event, so armed people can be denied entry despite Florida’s nearly nonexistent gun control. The city is kicking in about $40,000 to cover the extra security costs, which is another first for the event.
Other security measures include:
-No weapons
-All bags may be searched
-Large bags, coolers, etc. are prohibited
-No outside alcohol or glass containers
-No pets (Service animals are allowed)
Tricks & Treats
Officially, the party has two stages: the main stage at 6th Ave. and another at the north end of The Drive. VIP will be in the former home of Pride Factory in the building next to Alibi. But there are plenty more haunts to explore.
Hunters’ outside stage will host “American Idol” alum David Archuleta’s return to the city.
The Well will have an outdoor stage featuring drag entertainers and music by DJ Erik Lords. The Manor will have a huge dance area and break out its LED walls to bring the party outside. Alibi is hosting Freak Show and will have its own costume contest. DJ Alex Ramos will be spinnin’ spooky at Eagle.
Don’t see your favorite haunt here? Check individual websites to see which other treats are in store.
Fun Fundraiser
The party is produced by The Pride Center and serves as a primary fundraiser. From a fiscal standpoint, 2025 has been a tough year and 2026 is looking to be just as bleak.
“Funding cuts for the LGBT community, HIV prevention, have taken place,” Pride Center CEO Robert Boo said.
The Pride Center has had to cut staff and Boo isn’t bullish that, given the anti-LGBTQ pressure coming from Tallahassee and Washington, D.C., it will increase anytime soon.
“Wicked Manors is one of our fundraising initiatives for our programs and services.”
This ticketed event is cashless. General admission is $12 in advance, $15 day of. Premium admission includes five drink tickets and is $36 and must be purchased in advance, while VIP is $125. (Processing fees not included.)
For more information and tickets, visit WickedManors.org.
