10 Years After Pulse: How Orlando Continues to Remember

On June 12, 2016, Orlando experienced a tragedy that forever changed the city and touched communities around the world. Ten years later, Central Florida continues to honor 49 lives lost at Pulse Nightclub while reflecting the unity that emerged in the aftermath. 

As the anniversary approaches, the City of Orlando is inviting residents to come together for the annual Pulse Remembrance Ceremony on June 12. The event will honor the 49 victims, survivors, first responders, trauma teams, and families whose lives were forever changed by the events of that night. This year’s observance will, of course, carry a special significance for one of the most defining moments in Orlando’s history. 

For many residents, Pulse is not only a place remembered for tragedy but also a symbol of how a community can come together in the face of unimaginable loss. In the days, weeks, and years that followed, Central Floridians showed up for one another through memorials, blood drives, volunteer efforts, and ongoing support for the survivors and victims’ families. The phrase “Orlando United” became more than a slogan. 

How Orlando is Remembering Pulse This Week

Throughout this week, several remembrance events are taking place:

• • June 8–14: Prayer Ribbons Memorial Exhibition at Orlando City Hall Plaza
  • Thursday, June 11 – Sunday, August 23: Created in Community: Portraits of Pulse at Terrace Gallery 
  • Friday, June 12: Day of Remembrance Blood Drive at Orlando City Hall
  • Friday, June 5 – Monday, June 15: Pulse Memorial Site Illumination at Pulse Memorial Site
  • Friday, June 12: Pulse Remembrance Ceremony at First United Methodist Church of Orlando

At the same time, Orlando is looking toward the future with plans for a permanent memorial at the Pulse site. The City of Orlando assumed responsibility for the project after earlier memorial efforts stalled, working closely with survivors and victims’ families to guide the progress. In March, the city presented its 30% design milestone, offering the public a clearer look at the vision for the memorial. 

Current plans include a memorial plaza, dedicated spaces for reflection and remembrance, recognition of each of the 49 victims, and design elements intended to honor both loss and hope. A prominent feature of the concept is a 49-foot illuminated memorial tower inspired by the original Pulse sign, along with spaces where loved ones can leave flowers and personal tributes. 

The physical nightclub building itself was demolished earlier this year as the site began its transition toward becoming a permanent place of remembrance. While emotional for survivors, families, city leaders, and community members described the milestone as an important step toward creating a space focused on healing and honoring those who were lost. 

As Orlando pauses to remember this week, the focus remains on the lives that were taken, the people who continue to carry their memory forward, and the community that chose unity over division. Ten years later, the 49 victims are not forgotten, and their legacies continue to shape the pride of Orlando.

Ava McDonnell

Ava McDonnell is the Digital Content Creator/Editorial Manager for Central Florida Lifestyle Magazine while also earning her bachelor's degree in English at the University of Central Florida. Her work has been featured in UCF's The Charge and Her Campus UCF. She also has experience in editing using AP Style and SEO guidelines. Located in Clermont, Ava has always had a passion for learning about people's lives and sharing accurate stories with the world. She is dedicated to getting the job done right while making content interesting for readers. Aside from writing, you can find her indulging in the great outdoors with the people she loves. Whether it is hiking, taking photographs, or trying new activities, she is up for almost anything.

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