What started as a protest in platform heels has grown into one of the most iconic LGBTQ+ celebrations in the country. The Invasion of the Pines returns for its 50th installment this July 4, and it’s bigger, bolder, and more bedazzled than ever.
Hosted at the newly reimagined Waterfront at The Pines, this year’s golden anniversary of the Invasion pays tribute to its roots while serving up a weekend-long celebration of queer culture, freedom, and fabulous self-expression.
A Protest in Pumps Turned Annual Phenomenon
It all began in 1976, when a drag queen from Cherry Grove was denied service at The Blue Whale. In response, Panzi, now a Fire Island legend, led a brigade of queens across the water to the Pines, demanding visibility and respect. That rebellious ferry ride turned into a tradition: glamorous, gutsy, and gloriously over the top.
Now, five decades later, the Invasion remains a defining moment of queer resistance and resilience. Equal parts protest, performance, and party, it’s a must-attend event on the LGBTQ+ calendar.
What to Expect at the 50th Invasion
The 2025 festivities promise to be the grandest yet, thanks to a partnership between Tryst Hospitality and the Fire Island Pines Property Owners Association (FIPPOA). From high-energy choreography and drag spectacles to pool parties and fireworks, the day is stacked with nonstop entertainment.
The Pre-Show Spectacle
Kicking off at 12:30 p.m. on the ferry dock and at The Pavilion, The Canteen, and The Blue Whale, the pre-show will feature a fierce dance production led by choreographer Louis Villabon. Bring your fans, literal and metaphorical.
The Legendary Arrivals
At 2 p.m., the main event begins: the boatload of drag royalty from Cherry Grove glides into the harbor. Grand Marshal Panzi, aka Thom Hansen, will return to host the arrivals from the dockside stage, introducing each queen like the royalty they are.
“We started by crashing the party,” said Tristan Schukraft, CEO of Tryst Hospitality. “Now it’s the most fabulous Fourth of July celebration anywhere.”
Viewing Parties & VIP Vibes
Each Tryst Hospitality venue, The Pavilion, The Tryst Pool Club, and The Blue Whale, will host viewing parties starting at 11 a.m. with live DJs, streaming coverage of the arrivals, and surprise performances. Tickets for these coveted vantage points will be available at PinesFI.com.
Photo: Tryst Hospitality
Post-Invasion: Tea, Tacos, and Ty Sunderland
After the queens sashay ashore, the celebration spills into an all-evening affair.
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Low Tea at The Blue Whale starts at 5 p.m. with DJ Tony Ynot
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High Tea at The Pavilion follows at 7 p.m. with Daniro
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Ty Tea—the late-night party—takes over The Pavilion at 10 p.m. with none other than Ty Sunderland
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Piano Night at The Blue Whale offers a soulful closeout with Lance Horne also at 10 p.m.
Oh, and did we mention fireworks? At 9:30 p.m., the skies over The Waterfront will light up in celebration.
Violet Chachki Headlines the Poolside Blowout
You didn’t think it’d be all tea and no shade, did you? Drag superstar Violet Chachki is set to headline a post-Invasion pool party at The Tryst Pool Club from 12-7PM, adding high fashion and higher drama to the holiday lineup!
Hot dog carts will keep you fed between sets, while The Canteen and The Blue Whale Taco ensure no queen goes hungry.
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The Party Doesn’t Stop at Midnight
The Fourth might be the peak, but the celebration continues all weekend. From Thursday to Monday, The Waterfront will host drag brunches, DJ sets, and pool parties across its legendary venues. Whether you’re a Pines regular or a Fire Island first-timer, this is your time to live loud.
Tryst Hospitality is currently revitalizing The Waterfront at The Pines, aiming to blend iconic LGBTQ+ history with luxurious upgrades. With The Tryst Fire Island hotel on the way, CEO Tristan Schukraft is committed to preserving queer spaces while elevating the guest experience.
“Our community deserves spaces that reflect who we are: bold, joyful, and unafraid,” said Schukraft.
Join the Party
Follow @thepinesfireisland and @trysthotels on Instagram for all the poolside drama, drag magic, and brunchtime gossip. Tickets and event updates are available at PinesFI.com.
Whether you’re arriving by ferry, by yacht, or by glitter-powered unicorn float, one thing is certain: the 50th Invasion of the Pines is a celebration you don’t want to miss.
