LGBTQ+ professionals, entrepreneurs and community supporters are invited to meet after work at The Ball in St. Petersburg on 18 November. Hosted by the Tampa Bay LGBT Chamber and Watermark OUT News, the free, 21-and-over mixer promises an easygoing way to make local business connections, with raffle proceeds supporting St. Pete Pride.

Essential Takeaways

  • When and where: Wednesday, 18 November 2026, from 6.00 to 8.00 p.m. at The Ball in St. Petersburg.
  • Who’s hosting: The Tampa Bay LGBT Chamber and Watermark OUT News.
  • What it costs: Admission is free, and guests must be at least 21.
  • Why go: The event is designed for networking and conversation; an RSVP is encouraged.
  • Community benefit: Raffle proceeds will benefit St. Pete Pride.

A relaxed way to make business connections

The OUT for Business mixer brings LGBTQ+ business professionals, entrepreneurs, Chamber members and community supporters together for an after-hours gathering. Expect conversation rather than conference-room formality: the idea is to meet people, make introductions and enjoy an evening out.

The Tampa Bay LGBT Chamber’s events listing confirms the date, venue, hours and organisers. It places the mixer among the Chamber’s wider calendar of professional and community events, giving it a little more context than a one-off night out.

What to know before you go

The event runs from 6.00 to 8.00 p.m. on Wednesday, 18 November, at The Ball, 49 24th Street North, St. Petersburg, Florida. Admission is free, but attendees must be 21 or older, and organisers encourage people to RSVP in advance.

The venue’s website describes The Ball as an LGBTQ+ bar and lounge in the Grand Central District, and also confirms its address and 21-plus entry rule. If you’re planning to attend, check the Chamber’s event listing for registration details before setting off.

More than a business card exchange

Networking can feel like work in disguise, but this mixer is framed as an informal chance to connect with local professionals and community members. The event listing says it’s intended for conversation and community-building, making it suitable for people looking to broaden their circle as well as those seeking potential business relationships.

The Chamber describes its wider role as supporting the Greater Tampa Bay LGBTQ+ business community through networking, education and community engagement. That makes the mixer part of a larger effort to bring local businesses and people together, rather than simply a date in the diary.

Raffle proceeds will support St. Pete Pride

There’s a community-minded extra to the evening: organisers say raffle proceeds will benefit St. Pete Pride. That gives the gathering a local purpose alongside the chance to meet new people.

For anyone weighing up whether to go, the practical details are straightforward: it’s free, it’s for guests aged 21 and over, and an RSVP is encouraged. A relaxed setting can make introductions feel easier, and you may leave with more than a new contact in your phone.

Make an evening of it: check the Chamber’s listing, RSVP and head along ready to connect.

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