Big Apple Family Takeover
Connection. Celebration. Fundraising for Future Families Through GWK Academy.
A Full Weekend of Family Fun Across New York City
October 10-11, 2026
The Big Apple Family Takeover is your family’s chance to trade the everyday hustle for a joyful NYC weekend surrounded by other LGBTQ+ families who just get you.
We’ve lined up two days of fun, family-friendly events built for making real connections. From kid-centered activities to relaxed gatherings where parents can connect, laugh, and build community together.
Every ticket includes a donation to GWK Academy in support of our family-building mission. So while you’re having a gay old time, rest easy knowing you’re helping hopeful parents-to-be access trusted education, one-on-one coaching, vetted referral partners, and a welcoming community.
Come for the connection. Stay for the fun. Feel good knowing you’re helping more LGBTQ+ people realize their own family-building dreams.
A Full Weekend of Family Fun Across New York City
The Big Apple Family Takeover is about showing up as your family — and spending a joyful NYC weekend surrounded by other LGBTQ+ families who get it.
We’ve lined up two days of fun, family-friendly events — from kid-centered activities to relaxed gatherings where parents can connect, laugh, and build real community together.
Every adult ticket includes a donation to GWK Academy, helping ensure that LGBTQ+ people exploring parenthood have access to the trusted education, guidance, and community they need to begin their path to parenthood.
Come for the connection. Stay for the fun. Help more LGBTQ+ people begin their journey to parenthood.
Your vacation includes:
- Invitation to join WhatsApp and Facebook Groups with pre-trip calls
- Two-night stay at the Hilton Miami Airport Blue Lagoon Hotel
- Pre-Cruise Events: Pizza Party, Kids’ Poolside Meet-ups by Age Groups, Offsite Welcome Party
- Group motorcoach cruise transfer
- 3-night cruise aboard Royal Caribbean's Wonder of the Seas
- Group Dinners, Parents' Night Out, Family Vacation Tees, Group Photo, and more exclusive offers
Itinerary
Saturday, October 10
11:00 AM – 1:00 PM
Welcome Lunch Party
The Lesbian, Gay, Bisexual & Transgender Community Center
Kick off the weekend with food, non-alcoholic beverages, and plenty of time to connect with other families.
• Drag Bingo, sponsored by HelpUsAdopt.org
• Additional kid-friendly entertainment and activities
2:00 – 4:00 PM
Family Bowling Party, Frames Bowling Lounge, Hell’s Kitchen
• Two hours of non-stop bowling fun!
6:00 PM
Group Dinner Yard House, Times Square
Join everyone for a relaxed family dinner in the heart of Times Square.
Sunday, October 11
10:00 AM
A group visit to the iconic Central Park Zoo.
2:00 – 3:30 PM
The Color Factory
An immersive, interactive experience full of color, creativity, and fun for kids and adults alike.
4:00 – 5:30 PM
Farewell Party co-hosted by Gaytriarchs and The Queer Family Podcast Sugar Mouse NYC
We’re closing out the weekend with a blast! Join us for games and fun, as well as an audience engaging, live taping of a special joint podcast co-hosted by two of our favorite LGBTQ+ parent podcasters, Jaimie Kelton of The Queer Family Podcast and David F. M. Vaughn of Gaytriarchs. Snacks will be served and each guest will receive two non-alcoholic drink tickets.
Please note: All activities listed above are included in your registration fee. Lodging, transportation to/from events, and meals not specifically listed are not included.
Hotel Room Blocks
Holiday Inn Manhattan 6th Ave.
Hampton Inn Manhattan-Chelsea
With sincere thanks to our event partners for their support
