Beach Blanket Blackout

Chauncey and Brieon at 2012’s Fire Island Black Out

Launched in 2003 as a simple day at the beach, Fire Island Black Out—or FIBO as it’s come to be known—has grown into an epic three-day beach party celebrating the racial diversity of the LGBT community. Queers of color come from all over to enjoy fun in the sun on Cherry Grove’s beach, and with a few new additions to the FIBO lineup this year, the 11th annual event is sure to be a blast.

AUG 9: The Pre-Parties

VIP Champagne Reception

Hilton Garden Inn, 3485 Veterans Memorial Hwy, Ronkonkoma, 631-738-7800, 7pm–9pm
Kick off the weekend at FIBO’s host hotel with a glass of bubbly and a chance to mingle with all the other VIPs.

General Admission Welcome Reception

LaQuinta Inn, 10 Aero Rd, Bohemia, 631-881-7700, 7pm–9pm
Get to know your fellow FIBO party peeps before you all hit the beach. Sponsor Barefoot Wines provides the complimentary wine tasting.

VIP Tropical Heat Party

Hilton Garden Inn, 3485 Veterans Memorial Hwy, Ronkonkoma, 631-738-7800, 9pm–1am
Things are sure to get a little steamy at the FIBO host hotel. Enjoy a two-hour open bar and specialty cocktails courtesy of El Dorado Rum and Barefoot Wines as the DJ pumps the beats.

AUG 10: The Main Event

Beach Volleyball

On the beach, noon­–4pm
FIBO attendees spike it all afternoon, competing for prizes in friendly volleyball games.

NEW: Sun Dance Party

On the beach, 1pm–3pm
Who says you have to wait until the sun goes down to dance? DJs mix it up on the 1,600 square foot FIBO Plaza as the sun shines and the waves crash.

NEW: Beach Games 2013

On the beach, 3pm–5pm
The competition is sure to be fierce as beachcombers vie for prizes at the first ever FIBO Beach Games.

NEW: FIBO Confessions

On the beach, 3pm–5pm
It’s your chance to bear all and be a star. Step into the ADTV sponsored confessional and recount the magic of your FIBO experience.

Beach Tent Contest

On the beach, 4pm–5pm
Don’t just pitch a tent, erect a palace on the sand! FIBO judges will be searching for the most original, creative and fabulous beach blanket oasis on the beach.

His & His Happy Hour

The Ice Palace, 1 Bayview Wk (@Dock Wk), Cherry Grove, grovehotel.com, 6pm–7:30pm
After a long day on the beach, you’ll need a drink—or two. Grab your guy and head to The Ice Palace for 2-for-1 drinks.

NEW: VIP Pool Party and Swimwear Fashion Show

The Ice Palace, 1 Bayview Wk (@Dock Wk), Cherry Grove, grovehotel.com, 8pm–10pm
UBCTV’s Delvon Johnson hosts this exclusive VIP event. Watch sexy models show off super tiny swimwear from the comfort of your reserved poolside lounge chairs as you enjoy complimentary drinks and refreshments.

Bump & Dip Dance and Pool Party

The Ice Palace, 1 Bayview Wk (@Dock Wk), Cherry Grove, grovehotel.com, 10pm–4am
Party the night away on the Ice Palace’s dance floor—and in the pool!

AUG 11: Invasion of The Pines

Pines Pool Party

Pines Pool and Bar, 37 Fire Island Blvd, pinesfi.com, 1pm–5pm
FIBO invades The Pines! Whether you journey through the Meat Rack or take a water taxi from The Grove, you won’t want to miss this fabulous pool party.

Fire Island Black Out 2013 at various locations in Cherry Grove August 9­­–11; $30 in advance/$40–$50 general admission/$125–$150 VIP. Visit fireislandblackout.com for more info.