On July 4, 2025, BearUnion hosted a festive and affirming body-positive event at Clubhouse II, drawing a diverse crowd of individuals who embrace and celebrate Bears, Big Men, and Daddies. The gathering, held during Independence Day weekend, offered a blend of poolside fun and community bonding, underscoring the importance of inclusivity and self-acceptance within the LGBTQ+ community.
Clubhouse II, a well-established gay sauna in Fort Lauderdale, served as the perfect venue for the event. Located on East Oakland Park Boulevard, the space is known for its welcoming atmosphere and amenities that cater to adult socializing, including a whirlpool, steam room, dry sauna, and a video lounge. For many in the local LGBTQ+ scene, Clubhouse II has long been a hub for community events that center on camaraderie and comfort without judgment.
The July 4th BearUnion event marked one of many celebrations hosted nationwide by the organization, which was recently launched as a body-positive extension of the CumUnion party series. Unlike many nightlife and party events that cater to narrow beauty standards, BearUnion is designed to welcome and uplift individuals with larger body types and those who are often underrepresented in mainstream queer culture.
Attendees at the Fort Lauderdale event enjoyed an afternoon of laid-back socializing, poolside relaxation, and mutual appreciation in a space that prioritized respect and freedom of expression. Events like these are increasingly vital for building a culture of acceptance in queer spaces, where body diversity can sometimes be marginalized.
BearUnion’s growing presence reflects a broader shift toward inclusivity in LGBTQ+ nightlife and social events. By focusing on positive representation of body types that challenge conventional ideals, BearUnion fosters environments where individuals feel seen and valued just as they are. This movement also aligns with national conversations about the importance of mental health, self-image, and the affirmation of all identities within the queer spectrum.
Many attendees expressed appreciation for the event’s welcoming tone. For some, it was a rare opportunity to fully express themselves in a public setting without fear of stigma or exclusion. For others, the event served as a reminder that body positivity is not only empowering but also deeply necessary in building a resilient, connected community.
The July 4th gathering was part of a larger calendar of BearUnion events planned across the United States, each aiming to cultivate safe, celebratory spaces where individuals can come together around shared values of acceptance, pride, and joy. In an era where LGBTQ+ spaces are under renewed scrutiny and pressure in parts of the country, affirming events like this serve as powerful acts of resistance and unity.
To learn more about upcoming BearUnion events or find one near you, visit The Bear Calendar, an online platform listing gatherings that celebrate body diversity and queer fellowship.
