Tampa ‘Pride on the River’ event canceled over law about sexual performances for children

TAMPA, Fla. (FLV) – Tampa’s “Pride on the River” event has been canceled following a new law Gov. Ron DeSantis signed on Wednesday that will penalize businesses and people who admit children into “adult live performances.”

Tampa Pride President Carrie West confirmed to outlets the September event was canceled, and they were concerned they wouldn’t be able to restrict who sees the performances – since the event is in an open area.

“Rather than risk the licenses of participating businesses, organizers canceled the event altogether,” another report said.

Pride on the River is Tampa’s end-of-summer celebration that takes place along the Hillsborough River and “culminates with a family-friendly evening of entertainment, activities and more,” according to the website.

The 2022 event’s Presenting Sponsor was Winn Dixie. Other sponsors included Busch Gardens Tampa Bay, Sheraton Tampa Riverwalk Hotel, Titos Handmade Vodka, Tampa General Hospital and more.

There has been no word if the official Tampa Pride Parade will be canceled for next spring.

The new law authorizes Florida to fine, suspend, or revoke the license of any public establishment that admits a child to “adult live performances” that depict or simulate nudity, sexual conduct, or lewd exposure.

Violating the rules would result in a first degree misdemeanor, according to the text.

In early February, DeSantis’ office said Florida is “revoking” the Orlando Philharmonic Plaza Foundation’s liquor license after a “sexual” drag show permitted entry to minors.

The department said the venue exposed and promoted lewd, obscene, and sexual acts to minors.

The state is revoking the Hyatt Regency Miami’s alcohol license for the same reasons, according to an announcement earlier in March.