Smirnoff returns this year for NYC Pride, celebrating the community and spirit of Ballroom culture.
In the 1970s, Black and Latino LGBTQ+ community members helped popularize ballroom culture, creating chosen families known as houses that served as safe havens for many. House members compete in a variety of categories, from voguing to runway walks, showcasing creativity, self-expression, and talent. Beyond competition, ballroom provides a space that brings the community together, fostering acceptance, empowerment, and celebration.
Smirnoff honors this legacy by returning to New York City and hosting a ball of its own, celebrating the culture, community, and spirit that continue to define the ballroom scene today.
Legendary ballroom icons gathered at The Mill in Brooklyn to witness a new generation of talent take the runway. Among them was ballroom icon Dashaun, who hosted the event and brought together an extraordinary lineup of talent, including Grammy Award-winning recording artist Durand Bernarr.
With cocktails in hand and the crowd ready to clack and cheer, the ball has begun. One by one, members of each house strutted down the runway, showcasing their style, confidence, and artistry before a judging panel of ballroom legends. Competitors faced off across multiple categories, all leading to the coveted final walk for the grand prize.
Among the standout competitors was Alana of the House of Gorgeous Gucci. Commanding the runway in a stunning black-and-gold look created by ballroom legend Nene, Alana captivated the crowd, who erupted into chants of “Gorgeous Gucci!” as she made her way down the floor.
The energy in the room was electric a powerful display of unity, acceptance, and self-expression. It was Pride in its truest form. As the final category came to a close and the winners were celebrated, the ballroom transformed into a dance floor. The DJ kept the music flowing as guests filled the room with movement, laughter, and joy.
Hugs, kisses, and heartfelt reunions unfolded in every corner as family, friends, and members of the ballroom community came together to celebrate a truly extraordinary evening. The event was more than a competition; it was a gathering rooted in love, belonging, and the enduring spirit of ballroom culture.
Photo Credit: Luis Nieto Dickens
Just when it seemed the night had reached its peak, Dashaun Wesley returned to the stage for one final announcement. The crowd erupted with anticipation as Grammy Award-winning artist Durand Bernarr took the stage for a surprise performance. His infectious energy and dynamic presence brought the room to life once again, creating a fitting finale for an unforgettable celebration.
Smirnoff’s Pride tribute to ballroom culture delivered unapologetic joy at every turn. By honoring a community that has long created spaces of acceptance, resilience, and self-expression, the event celebrated the legacy of ballroom while spotlighting its continued impact today. It was a night filled with love, pride, and connection. A reminder that ballroom is more than an art form; it is a culture, a community, and a home for so many.
