Once Upon a Pines Party 2011 | Fire Island Pines Costume Beach Party
Once Upon a Pines Party: Inside Fire Island's Iconic LGBTQ+ Beach Celebration
Photographed by acclaimed queer photographer koitz, this image captures the spirit of the 2011 Pines Party, themed "Once Upon a Pines Party." Three revelers pose in imaginative fairy-tale-inspired costumes, reflecting the creativity, freedom, and community that have defined one of Fire Island's most celebrated LGBTQ+ events for decades.
Every summer, thousands travel to Fire Island Pines for what has become one of the world's most famous LGBTQ+ beach parties. Known for spectacular costume themes, internationally renowned DJs, live performances, and sunrise celebrations on the sand, the Pines Party is far more than a weekend of music—it is a tradition that celebrates community while giving back.
More Than a Beach Party
Since its founding, the Pines Party has combined entertainment with philanthropy. Now in its 27th year, the event has raised more than $4.8 million for organizations that support the LGBTQ+ community and preserve Fire Island Pines.
Beneficiaries include:
- Stonewall Community Foundation, one of the nation's leading LGBTQ+ public foundations.
- The Pines Foundation, which supports the Fire Island Pines community.
- The Fire Island Pines Seashore Defense Fund, established by the Fire Island Pines Property Owners Association (FIPPOA) to help protect the community during emergencies.
This unique combination of celebration and charitable giving has made the Pines Party one of the most important fundraising events in LGBTQ+ culture.
The Magic of "Once Upon a Pines Party"
The 2011 edition embraced a whimsical fairy-tale theme that encouraged attendees to transform themselves into storybook-inspired characters. Creative costumes, theatrical accessories, and imaginative styling turned the beachfront into a fantasy world unlike any other.
Koitz's photograph perfectly captures that atmosphere, preserving a moment when fashion, performance, and community came together beneath the lights of Fire Island Pines.
The 2026 Pines Party
This year's Pines Party returns July 31 through August 2, bringing another unforgettable weekend of music, performances, and fundraising to Fire Island Pines. The legendary Beach Party remains the centerpiece of the celebration, with additional events taking place throughout the community.
For many attendees, the Pines Party is more than an annual tradition—it's a celebration of LGBTQ+ resilience, friendship, creativity, and generosity that continues to inspire new generations.
Whether remembered through photographs like this one or experienced firsthand on the beach, the Pines Party remains one of the defining events in LGBTQ+ nightlife and Fire Island history.
Photo: © koitz – 2011 Pines Party, "Once Upon a Pines Party."