By John Hayden

Chuck King is stoked. “Everything is underway. We’re really excited.”

The Eagle co-owner is gearing up for Tropical Bear Week, and there’s a lot to prepare for. If you’ve been to this event before, you know there’s always a lot going on. This year, King and his staff are kicking it up a notch.

From iconic entertainers to a party cruise and lots of leather, the week promises to be unforgettable. For example, the Bear Cruise is now a full-fledged party cruise. But wasn’t it already a party cruise?

“Last year was more of an informational cruise,” King said with a laugh. “This year, it’ll be a lot more fun.” The cruise is a chartered Water Taxi leaving from the Riverside Hotel at 2 p.m. on April 9, 2025.

Thousands of Bears will descend on Broward County from April 8-13, 2025, and will be entertained by twelve parties at thirteen venues (beaches, parks, bars, and hotels), including seven pools. Eleven DJs and fifteen performers, ranging from disco favorites to cabaret singers, will keep everyone entertained.

New this year is the Camo Beach Party on April 11 has expanded to a bigger space at Beach at Birch State Park.

Adult entertainer Drew Sebastian is bringing his Bear Cabaret back to Hunters Nightclub, along with other sexy performers, on April 10 at 7:30 p.m. Bear Village, on April 12 at Richardson Park, is expanding as well.

King has to ensure each event runs smoothly, but when forced to pick a favorite, it’s all about the pool.

“I always love the pool party that FlockFest hosts with us (April 10 at noon) at the Marriott. There’s a view of the whole city, and it’s an event where I get to relax, jump in the pool, and have a little fun.”

King says one of the most popular events every year is the Tsunami Pool Party at Ed Lugo Resort. The farewell party, which takes place at 1 p.m. on Sunday, always sells out in advance.

The Well on Wilton Drive is hosting the Sunset Tea Dance on April 11, and Eagle will host the Eagle Gruff Party on April 12 and Bare with Me on April 10. Both parties start at 9 p.m., and early arrival is encouraged. While Eagle can be a late-night bar, Tropical Bear Week parties fill up fast.

Single-event tickets start as low as $10. The General Admission package starts at $119, while the VIP package is $319.