At this year’s Fire Island Invasion, the real show wasn’t just on the harbor stage, it was at The Tryst Pool Deck, where abs, cocktails, and charisma collided under the summer sun. While drag royalty like Violet Chachki turned it out on the DJ deck, the Tryst team served something even more unforgettable: themselves.
Dancers at The Tryst Pool Deck as Tryst Hospitality celebrates the 50th Invasion of Fire Island Pines on July 04, 2025 in Sayville, New York. (Photo by Santiago Felipe/Getty Images for Tryst Hospitality)Bartenders at The Blue Whale attend as Tryst Hospitality celebrates the 50th Invasion of Fire Island Pines on July 04, 2025 in Sayville, New York. (Photo by Santiago Felipe/Getty Images for Tryst Hospitality)Guests at The Tryst Pool Deck as Tryst Hospitality celebrates the 50th Invasion of Fire Island Pines on July 04, 2025 in Sayville, New York. (Photo by Santiago Felipe/Getty Images for Tryst Hospitality)
A Post-Invasion Pool Party to Remember
After the last queen sashayed off the ferry and legend Panzi closed the historic harbor ceremony, the crowd flocked to The Tryst for a post-Invasion splashdown. Violet spun a soundtrack of queer liberation, but it was the poolside staff, equal parts boy band fantasy and Greek god, that truly kept the crowd thirsty.
Tryst’s bartenders, each hotter than the last, served up icy drinks with devilish smirks and perfectly timed winks. Glistening in the Fire Island heat, these hunks made ordering a margarita feel like an erotic experience. And just when you thought it couldn’t get better, the go-go dancers hit the pole. Yes, there was a pole. Yes, someone climbed it. Yes, your jaw dropped.
A dancer at The Tryst Pool Deck as Tryst Hospitality celebrates the 50th Invasion of Fire Island Pines on July 04, 2025 in Sayville, New York. (Photo by Santiago Felipe/Getty Images for Tryst Hospitality)Templo performs at The Tryst Pool Deck as Tryst Hospitality celebrates the 50th Invasion of Fire Island Pines on July 04, 2025 in Sayville, New York. (Photo by Santiago Felipe/Getty Images for Tryst Hospitality) A guest at The Tryst Pool Deck as Tryst Hospitality celebrates the 50th Invasion of Fire Island Pines on July 04, 2025 in Sayville, New York. (Photo by Santiago Felipe/Getty Images for Tryst Hospitality)
Hotel Upgrade, Same Hot Staff Energy
This wasn’t just a party, it was also a preview of what’s to come for The Tryst Fire Island. Currently undergoing a major refresh, the new Tryst hotel is staying true to its sexy roots while upgrading its offerings. Think sleek rooms, ensuite bathrooms (farewell, shared showers), and design straight from their award-winning Puerto Vallarta location.
And don’t worry—those poolside bombshells aren’t going anywhere.
Staff Glow-Up Behind the Scenes, Too
Tryst is also leveling up how it treats its team, which makes sense considering how much joy they bring to guests. Over $3 million is being poured into upgraded staff housing, complete with air conditioning, WiFi, flat-screen TVs, and shared lounges. So yes, the men serving you that tequila sunrise are not only hot, they’re living well.
The investment also includes upgraded plumbing and infrastructure to support the Pines community at large, showing that this is a party with purpose.
A guest at The Tryst Pool Deck as Tryst Hospitality celebrates the 50th Invasion of Fire Island Pines on July 04, 2025 in Sayville, New York. (Photo by Santiago Felipe/Getty Images for Tryst Hospitality)A dancer (C) at The Tryst Pool Deck as Tryst Hospitality celebrates the 50th Invasion of Fire Island Pines on July 04, 2025 in Sayville, New York. (Photo by Santiago Felipe/Getty Images for Tryst Hospitality)
The Real Attraction? The People Who Serve It.
Sure, Fire Island is iconic for its queer history, beach views, and drag theatrics, but let’s be honest, the Tryst team has become a local landmark of its own. Whether you’re here for the beats, the boys, or the buzz, this pool party proves the staff is just as much a part of the experience as the venue itself.
So next summer, when you hear the call of the Invasion, don’t forget to bring your best swimsuit, a camera roll with plenty of storage, and a deep appreciation for the fine art of poolside service.
One of the most iconic queer celebrations in the country just hit a major milestone, and did it in full glam. Fire Island’s beloved July 4th tradition, The Invasion of the Pines, turned 50 this year, and Tryst Hospitality made sure the celebration was nothing short of legendary.
A Waterfront Takeover Worthy of Drag History
The day-long extravaganza stretched across the famed Fire Island Pines waterfront, including The Pavilion, The Blue Whale, The Canteen, and the sun-soaked Tryst Pool Deck. Orchestrated by Tristan Schukraft, CEO of MISTR and Tryst Hotels, the celebration honored the legacy of the Invasion while offering a preview of what’s to come with the highly anticipated debut of The Tryst Fire Island hotel.
And let’s be clear: this wasn’t just any party. This was a drag-studded spectacle befitting half a century of protest, pageantry, and pride.
Photo: Santiago Felipe/Getty Images for Tryst Hospitality
Photo: Santiago Felipe/Getty Images for Tryst Hospitality
Photo: Santiago Felipe/Getty Images for Tryst Hospitality
Photo: Santiago Felipe/Getty Images for Tryst Hospitality
Drag Queens From Around the Tryst Universe
Tryst Hospitality brought in queens from its glittering properties around the world, delivering a truly international showcase of charisma, uniqueness, nerve, and talent. The lineup included:
Alyssa Hunter and Amalara Sofia from The Tryst San Juan
Pelayo from The Tryst Puerto Vallarta
Pixie Aventura, a Fire Island regular at The Pavilion and The Blue Whale
Leading the charge? None other than Panzi, the living legend who kicked off the very first Invasion back in 1976. With a microphone in hand and a legacy behind her, Panzi announced each queen’s arrival as ferry after ferry pulled into the harbor, delivering drag excellence by the boatload.
What started five decades ago as a response to a drag queen being denied service in the Pines has become one of queer culture’s most enduring acts of protest and joy. The Invasion continues to blend satire, spectacle, and resilience—and this year, it was bigger than ever.
Photo: Santiago Felipe/Getty Images for Tryst Hospitality
Photo: Santiago Felipe/Getty Images for Tryst Hospitality
Photo: Santiago Felipe/Getty Images for Tryst Hospitality
Photo: Santiago Felipe/Getty Images for Tryst Hospitality
Post-Invasion Pool Party and DJ Beats? Naturally.
The festivities didn’t end at the harbor. After the queens landed, it was time to head to The Tryst Pool Deck, where Violet Chachkibrought her signature high-fashion edge to the post-Invasion pool party. From there, guests danced their way through Low Tea, High Tea, and a night of immaculate galavanting, with the Waterfront becoming a full-on runway of late-night revelry.
Throughout the day, drag icon Willam Belliwas on the scene, capturing the best moments for @thepinesfireisland and giving fans an insider’s look at this once-in-a-generation celebration.
Photo: Santiago Felipe/Getty Images for Tryst Hospitality
Photo: Santiago Felipe/Getty Images for Tryst Hospitality
Photo: Santiago Felipe/Getty Images for Tryst Hospitality
Photo: Santiago Felipe/Getty Images for Tryst Hospitality
Looking Ahead: The Tryst Era
With The Tryst Fire Island hotel on the horizon, Schukraft and team made it clear that this was more than a party, it was a promise. A new era of queer luxury, celebration, and community is on its way to Fire Island.
After 50 years, the Invasion shows no signs of slowing down. If anything, it’s evolving, just like the community it celebrates.
What started as a protest in platform heels has grown into one of the most iconic LGBTQ+ celebrations in the country. The Invasion of the Pines returns for its 50th installment this July 4, and it’s bigger, bolder, and more bedazzled than ever.
Hosted at the newly reimagined Waterfront at The Pines, this year’s golden anniversary of the Invasion pays tribute to its roots while serving up a weekend-long celebration of queer culture, freedom, and fabulous self-expression.
A Protest in Pumps Turned Annual Phenomenon
It all began in 1976, when a drag queen from Cherry Grove was denied service at The Blue Whale. In response, Panzi, now a Fire Island legend, led a brigade of queens across the water to the Pines, demanding visibility and respect. That rebellious ferry ride turned into a tradition: glamorous, gutsy, and gloriously over the top.
Now, five decades later, the Invasion remains a defining moment of queer resistance and resilience. Equal parts protest, performance, and party, it’s a must-attend event on the LGBTQ+ calendar.
Photo: Tryst Hospitality
What to Expect at the 50th Invasion
The 2025 festivities promise to be the grandest yet, thanks to a partnership between Tryst Hospitality and the Fire Island Pines Property Owners Association (FIPPOA). From high-energy choreography and drag spectacles to pool parties and fireworks, the day is stacked with nonstop entertainment.
The Pre-Show Spectacle
Kicking off at 12:30 p.m. on the ferry dock and at The Pavilion, The Canteen, and The Blue Whale, the pre-show will feature a fierce dance production led by choreographer Louis Villabon. Bring your fans, literal and metaphorical.
The Legendary Arrivals
At 2 p.m., the main event begins: the boatload of drag royalty from Cherry Grove glides into the harbor. Grand Marshal Panzi, aka Thom Hansen, will return to host the arrivals from the dockside stage, introducing each queen like the royalty they are.
“We started by crashing the party,” said Tristan Schukraft, CEO of Tryst Hospitality. “Now it’s the most fabulous Fourth of July celebration anywhere.”
Viewing Parties & VIP Vibes
Each Tryst Hospitality venue, The Pavilion, The Tryst Pool Club, and The Blue Whale, will host viewing parties starting at 11 a.m. with live DJs, streaming coverage of the arrivals, and surprise performances. Tickets for these coveted vantage points will be available at PinesFI.com.
Low Tea at The Blue Whale. Photo: Tryst Hospitality
Photo: Tryst Hospitality
High Tea at Pavilion Returns. Photo: Tryst Hospitality
Photo: Tryst Hospitality
Post-Invasion: Tea, Tacos, and Ty Sunderland
After the queens sashay ashore, the celebration spills into an all-evening affair.
Low Tea at The Blue Whale starts at 5 p.m. with DJ Tony Ynot
High Tea at The Pavilion follows at 7 p.m. with Daniro
Ty Tea—the late-night party—takes over The Pavilion at 10 p.m. with none other than Ty Sunderland
Piano Night at The Blue Whale offers a soulful closeout with Lance Horne also at 10 p.m.
Oh, and did we mention fireworks? At 9:30 p.m., the skies over The Waterfront will light up in celebration.
Violet Chachki Headlines the Poolside Blowout
You didn’t think it’d be all tea and no shade, did you? Drag superstar Violet Chachki is set to headline a post-Invasion pool party at The Tryst Pool Club from 12-7PM, adding high fashion and higher drama to the holiday lineup!
Hot dog carts will keep you fed between sets, while The Canteen and The Blue Whale Taco ensure no queen goes hungry.
The Fourth might be the peak, but the celebration continues all weekend. From Thursday to Monday, The Waterfront will host drag brunches, DJ sets, and pool parties across its legendary venues. Whether you’re a Pines regular or a Fire Island first-timer, this is your time to live loud.
Tryst Hospitality is currently revitalizing The Waterfront at The Pines, aiming to blend iconic LGBTQ+ history with luxurious upgrades. With The Tryst Fire Island hotel on the way, CEO Tristan Schukraft is committed to preserving queer spaces while elevating the guest experience.
“Our community deserves spaces that reflect who we are: bold, joyful, and unafraid,” said Schukraft.
Join the Party
Follow @thepinesfireisland and @trysthotels on Instagram for all the poolside drama, drag magic, and brunchtime gossip. Tickets and event updates are available at PinesFI.com.
Whether you’re arriving by ferry, by yacht, or by glitter-powered unicorn float, one thing is certain: the 50th Invasion of the Pines is a celebration you don’t want to miss.
Puerto Vallarta’s vibrant LGBTQ+ scene reached a new pinnacle with the grand opening of The Tryst, the world’s first gay luxury hotel brand.Located in the heart of the city’s Zona Romántica, The Tryst is the brainchild of entrepreneur Tristan Schukraft, often dubbed the “CEO of Everything Gay” for his extensive ventures in the LGBTQ+ community.
Tristan Schukraft attends the Grand Opening Weekend at The Tryst Puerto Vallarta: Opening Night Party at The Tryst Puerto Vallarta on April 25, 2025 in Puerto Vallarta, Mexico. (Photo by Presley Ann/Getty Images for Tryst Hotels)
A Night to Remember
The grand opening on Friday night was nothing short of spectacular.The festivities commenced with a Red Carpet Opening Night Party, hosted by the charismatic Matt Rogers.
Plastique Tiara and her fiance attend the Grand Opening Weekend at The Tryst Puerto Vallarta: Opening Night Party at The Tryst Puerto Vallarta on April 25, 2025 in Puerto Vallarta, Mexico. (Photo by Vivien Killilea/Getty Images for Tryst Hotels)
Demi Lovato attends the opening night party at The Tryst Puerto Vallarta on April 25, 2025 in Puerto Vallarta, Mexico. (Photo by Presley Ann/Getty Images for Tryst Hotels)
The event reached a fever pitch when actress Jennifer Coolidge made a surprise appearance, sending the crowd into a frenzy.Adding to the star-studded evening, singer Demi Lovato graced the event, further elevating its glamour.The night culminated with a breathtaking rooftop fireworks display over the Puerto Vallarta sky, embodying the hotel’s ethos of luxury and celebration.
Sam Asghari and Brooke Irvine attend the Grand Opening Weekend at The Tryst Puerto Vallarta: Opening Night Party at The Tryst Puerto Vallarta on April 25, 2025 in Puerto Vallarta, Mexico. (Photo by Vivien Killilea/Getty Images for Tryst Hotels)
Zane Phillips attends the Grand Opening Weekend at The Tryst Puerto Vallarta: Opening Night Party at The Tryst Puerto Vallarta on April 25, 2025 in Puerto Vallarta, Mexico. (Photo by Presley Ann/Getty Images for Tryst Hotels)
The Tryst Experience
The Tryst is more than just a hotel; it’s a sanctuary where guests can be their best selves—even on their worst behavior.Designed by the renowned Estudio Esterlina, known for their acclaimed work at Four Seasons Tamarindo, the hotel boasts 55 elegantly designed rooms that blend minimalist elegance with Mexican flair.
Tristan Schukraft and Chris Diamond attend the Grand Opening Weekend at The Tryst Puerto Vallarta: Opening Night Party at The Tryst Puerto Vallarta on April 25, 2025 in Puerto Vallarta, Mexico. (Photo by Vivien Killilea/Getty Images for Tryst Hotels)
Each room offers a private balcony, ultra-soft bedding, intimate mood lighting, Egyptian cotton towels, Grown Alchemist toiletries, and a mini bar stocked with favorites.The hotel also features a rooftop pool and bar, providing panoramic views of the city and the Pacific Ocean.
Ts Madison attends the Grand Opening Weekend at The Tryst Puerto Vallarta: Opening Night Party at The Tryst Puerto Vallarta on April 25, 2025 in Puerto Vallarta, Mexico. (Photo by Presley Ann/Getty Images for Tryst Hotels)
Beyond luxurious accommodations, The Tryst offers a vibrant social scene.Weekly events include the “wettest drag brunch in the world,” hosted by Pelayo in the hotel’s Courtyard, featuring a rotating lineup of drag queens, bottomless mimosas, and an international brunch menu . The rooftop pool and 8th-floor cocktail lounge, Ocho, transform into the ultimate party destination, featuring world-famous DJs, signature cocktails, and iconic Tryst gogo dancers.
Colton Haynes attends the Grand Opening Weekend at The Tryst Puerto Vallarta: Opening Night Party at The Tryst Puerto Vallarta on April 25, 2025 in Puerto Vallarta, Mexico. (Photo by Presley Ann/Getty Images for Tryst Hotels)
Expanding Horizons
The Tryst is part of Schukraft’s broader vision to create a global network of luxury gay boutique hotels.Following the success of the Puerto Vallarta location, Schukraft plans to open additional Tryst hotels in San Juan, Puerto Rico, and Fire Island, New York, in 2025.These properties aim to offer upscale, inclusive experiences for guests seeking high-end accommodations with a vibrant, social atmosphere.
VINCINT attends the Grand Opening Weekend at The Tryst Puerto Vallarta: Opening Night Party at The Tryst Puerto Vallarta on April 25, 2025 in Puerto Vallarta, Mexico. (Photo by Vivien Killilea/Getty Images for Tryst Hotels)
A Commitment to Community
Schukraft’s ventures extend beyond hospitality.He is also the founder of MISTR, a telehealth platform offering discreet, free online access to PrEP and long-term HIV care for the LGBTQ+ community.Additionally, he has acquired iconic LGBTQ+ venues such as The Abbey in West Hollywood, Circo Nightclub in San Juan, and The Blue Whale on Fire Island, aiming to preserve and revitalize these cultural landmarks.
Melvin Alexander, Tristan Schukraft and Demi Lovato attend the opening night party at The Tryst Puerto Vallarta on April 25, 2025 in Puerto Vallarta, Mexico. (Photo by Vivien Killilea/Getty Images for Tryst Hotels)
Looking Ahead
As The Tryst Puerto Vallarta continues to welcome guests, the celebration doesn’t stop.Upcoming events include a drag brunch and pool party on Saturday, promising more unforgettable experiences.With its blend of luxury, inclusivity, and vibrant social scenes, The Tryst is set to become a cornerstone of Puerto Vallarta’s LGBTQ+ community and a model for gay luxury travel worldwide.
For more information and to make reservations, visit Tryst Hotels.
