Big Gay Day returns for its 17th year to slay us with superstars
Usually stereotypes surrounding the queer community are the absolute worst, but there is one universal law that we can acknowledge with our hands over our hearts as being true – these folks know a thing or two about throwing a party. This fact is why regardless of sexual orientation or identification, Big Gay Day has become one of the most hotly anticipated street festivals on Brisbane’s social calendar. The event returns to its spiritual home of The Wickham this Sunday March 12 to prove that Brisbane’s heart and soul is painted with every colour of the rainbow.
Each year Big Gay Day tends to up the ante with its entertainment offering, and this year is no exception. Local, national and international acts have all come on board to make sure festivalgoers will be thoroughly entertained – Yolanda Be Cool, Nat Conway and Peyton are amongst the star-studded musical line-up that will be getting the party started. Without a doubt, though, the biggest talking point of this year’s line-up is the inimitable Sharon Needles. Those who are into RuPaul’s Drag Race will know her as season four’s reigning queen, famous for her insane looks and ghoulish sense of humour. This is also her only Brisbane show, so fans best get on it.
As well as being just a generally rad time, there is substance to Big Gay Day’s style. The festival obviously brings with it a level of visibility to an often-marginalised community, but it is also a major fundraising effort that has been providing support to various causes since its inception 16 years ago. Each year the event raises much-needed funds for its charity partners through a variety of initiatives (including ticket sales and profit share), continuing The Wickham’s legacy of being a wholly supportive venue. This year the dollars of hard-earned punters will be going towards Open Doors, the Queensland AIDS Council, ATSAQ and Wendybird, four very worthy causes to get behind.
If this has got you feeling all kinds of fabulous, you can nab tickets to Big Gay Day through Eventopia.
To find out more about what’s on in Brisbane, head to our Event Guide.
