Big Apple Family Takeover

Connection. Celebration. Fundraising for Future Families Through GWK Academy.

A Full Weekend of Family Fun Across New York City

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.

Early Bird Pricing Available: Save $100 off the cost of each family member ticket when you register by August 31.

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.

9:00 PM (Optional)
Parents’ Night Out
Co-hosted by Out in Tech
Hell’s Kitchen (location to be announced)

For parents who want to keep the evening going while the kids rest up for Sunday.

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, Out Loud & Laughing, 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 a history-making, audience engaging, live taping of a crossover podcast episode featuring 3 of our favorite queer podcast hosts. 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.