Miami Beach has a rich heritage as a gay centre, from the bull dykes and camp gays of the 1950s to the fashionable and luxurious gay pleasure beach it has become. Despite this, it has been over a decade since this gay hot spot has had a gay pride event, and though calm and understated, the festivities are definitely back.

The week-long event gets all of the serious stuff out of the way early; kicking off with an exhibition entitled Historia de Amor at the Hardcore Gallery in Wynwood. On Wednesday 15th, the Miami Dade Gay and Lesbian Chamber hosts a networking event at the Shore Club, the proceeds from which all go to the pride events. At the same time, there is a panel discussion at the Bass Museum on arts, civil rights and justice.

If all that sounds a little dry for your tastes, hold out for the parade on Saturday 18th. The route stretches all along Ocean Drive, allowing participants to take in the gorgeous beaches, and equally, any gorgeous creatures who may be sunning themselves there. The parade includes floats, dancers, and the Miami Beach Mayor Matti Bower, and is open to members of the public, so join in!

After the parade, the Proud festival in Lummus Park is the place to go, where there are business and community stalls, food, drinks and music to enjoy. Throughout the day there are also live DJs and bands performing on the main stage on 14th Street until 7pm.

The following day, it’s time to show some solidarity for people HIV/AIDS at the AIDS Walk, starting at Convention Centre Drive, all to raise money for charity Care Resource.