By Mikkel Hyldebrandt
New ownership doesn’t necessarily mean an all-new approach to a tried, tested, and highly successful event platform like One Magical Weekend. For Ethan Suarez, CEO of Pineapple Healthcare and recently part of the new ownership of One Magical Weekend, it means adjusting the dials over so slightly to elevate the OMW experience even more for its patrons. David got a chance to talk to Ethan about taking over the reins and what he plans to bring to One Magical Weekend.
After 15 years, the reins of One Magical Weekend have been handed over to you and Pineapple Healthcare. What prompted your decision to purchase OMW?
I have been engaged with the organization OMW since my early twenties. In recent years, we have served as a sponsor. Upon learning that OMW was available for sale, we submitted a bid, and I am pleased to report that we were selected as the buyer.
Tell us a little about Pineapple Healthcare – when and how did it all begin?
It was founded in 2020 at the height of the pandemic. Pineapple Healthcare is a primary care practice in Central Florida, specializing in diagnosing and managing infectious diseases, which has a team of HIV/AIDS care specialists providing a full range of health services for all people ages 12 and up. Pineapple Healthcare is an all-encompassing medical practice that aims to serve as a one-stop shop for evidence-based, progressive treatment for the LGBTQ community.
What do you say to people who find it strange for a healthcare organization to host a party weekend?
A lot of parties that people attend are owned by non-profits, such as Winter Party in Miami Beach, which is produced by the LGBT+ task force and Orange Party in Tampa. By encompassing our organization into One Magical Weekend, it allows us to keep up with our mission in a time when federal grant dollars are drying up and funders are very scared of anything Gay or what can be perceived as DEI.
What do you plan to bring to OMW as the new owners and to make it even better?
OMW is already a remarkable experience, and my goal is to refine and elevate it further for our guests. We plan to introduce some exciting celebrity appearances and implement subtle changes each year to keep the experience fresh and engaging. Ultimately, I want OMW to remain true to its essence while continuously enhancing its appeal.
Being a healthcare organization, will you also bring more healthcare initiatives to OMW?
The history of circuit parties encompasses events that not only invigorated our spirits during the height of the AIDS epidemic but also serve to empower the emerging generation of leaders. These gatherings reflect a purposeful celebration and contribute to funding our advocacy efforts, educational initiatives, and research aimed at providing low-cost or no-cost care to individuals living with or affected by HIV.
During this year’s OMW weekend, Pineapple Healthcare will offer DoxyPEP free of charge to any individuals who request it. When administered within 24 to 72 hours following sexual activity, this prophylaxis has been shown to reduce the risk of bacterial sexually transmitted infections (STIs) by 70% to 80%.
What are you most looking forward to at this year’s OMW?
I am most looking forward to seeing friends and chosen family, that I have met at previous One Magical Weekends, who live in different states and only get to see every once in a while. I am also looking forward to seeing our international array of DJs because, at my heart, I am a house fan and love getting lost in the music on the dance floor.
What is your best piece of advice for people attending OMW?
Be your true, authentic self, let the hair down, and just ride the wave. Wearing a smile is the best accessory that you can put on. You will meet new friends or maybe even the boyfriend. I know it sounds cliché, but it truly is a magical weekend.
Anything you’d like to add?
I cannot wait to welcome everyone to Orlando this year and years into the future, and like any true Southern host, if there is anything my team can do to make your stay more magical, please let us know.