Inspired by Orlando’s battle with the state over the formerly rainbow-painted Pulse memorial crosswalk, Se7en Bites owner Trina Gregory is set to launch a new community event.
Parking Spaces for Pride — A Rainbow Connection will see Gregory open 49 of her restaurant’s private parking spaces to local artists, who are invited to transform the pavement into colorful art installations.
Forty-nine people were killed in the 2016 Pulse nightclub shooting.
The free day-long event takes place from 7 a.m. to 7 p.m. on Monday, Sept. 15, and will feature live art installations, food trucks, vendors, DJs and performances. Orlando eateries Smoke & Donuts, Beezer Eats, Royal Tapas, Hanaeli Shave Ice, Nonni’s Mini Donuts, Peko-Peko and more will provide bites. Local businesses Sundrey LLC and Circus Inferno are also scheduled to participate.
Gregory emphasizes the celebration is not a memorial to the Pulse tragedy, but says that it was inspired by recent events. She says the spots will be repainted every other year.
“This isn’t just about paint — it’s about community, visibility and love,” she said in a social media post.
Organizers are seeking donations to help cover supplies for the artists, including paint brushes, rollers and handles, Knapps roller covers, small kneeling cushions and more.
The event comes amid controversy surrounding Orlando’s Pulse memorial crosswalk, which the Florida Department of Transportation painted over in late August.
The crosswalk has remained a site of controversy as protesters, state lawmakers and local officials have been gathering to re-color in the crosswalk with chalk. A total of four people have been arrested for using chalk on the crosswalk.
Orlando officials this week filed a request with the state to restore the rainbow crosswalk.
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