Over the rainbow
11 fabulous ways to celebrate Austin Pride 2019 all weekend long
Stock up on glitter, pull out the rainbow socks, and hydrate, hydrate, hydrate — Austin's steamy pride celebration is back Saturday, August 10. And this year is packed with more parties than ever.
The official festival goes down from 11 am to 7 pm at Fiesta Gardens, and the parade rolls through downtown at 8 pm, but the fun doesn’t stop there. The weekend is packed with dance parties, drag shows, and brunches. Follow our fabulous guide to make the most of every moment.
Thursday, August 8
Loud and Proud at Barracuda
RetailMeNot has drafted an all-star lineup for this benefit concert featuring Pelvis Wrestley, Large Brush Collection, Caleb De Casper, Christelle Bofale, and Stretch Panic. Show starts at 6 pm, and all proceeds go to Out Youth and Kind Clinic.
Official Pride Comedy Show at The Velveeta Room
Ky Krebs from the Extra Salty podcast hosts an evening of gut-busting comedy from queer comedians Roxy Castillo, Ava Smartt, Ralphie Hardesty, Brandi Davis, and Claude Ramey. There are still a precious few tickets left for the 10:30 pm show, but act quickly. The first show sold out in fewer than two days.
Friday, August 9
Drip Drop 7 at The Venue ATX
Viral sensation Blame It On Kway headlines this can’t-miss party, which runs 7 pm to 2 am and is sponsored by Austin Black Pride and Pink Elephant Radio. DJ Shante from The Beat in Houston will keep the energy thumping. VIP ticket holders can skip the line and enjoy an exclusive rooftop lounge.
RuPaul vs. Divine at Elysium
The supermodel of the world meets the filthiest person alive in this tribute to two drag icons. In addition to PooPoo Platter’s stellar cast, the troupe is bringing in Violet Exclamation Point from the Boulet Brothers' Dragula and introducing new queen Jordan Harris. Doors at 10 pm, show starts at 11:30.
Saturday, August 10
ATXGFL Pride Party at Spin
Get sporty at this post-Pride bash from the Austin Gay Flag Football League and Austin Gay Basketball League. A $10 suggested donation to OutYouth gets guests access to table tennis and happy hour specials from 8 pm to midnight.
ATX Trans Pride at Cheer Up Charlies
Doors open at 9 pm for Austin’s first trans pride, hosted by p1nkstar and Young Kwane. A suggested donation of $5-$10 gets you through the door, with a portion of the proceeds going to Transgender Education Network of Texas.
Disco Inferno: Austin Pride Official Womxn’s Party at the Vaughn
Watch the parade from the comfort of a rooftop deck, then burn, baby, burn to DJ GiiQ’s all-night set. Torchy’s Tacos will be giving away free tacos to keep the energy going from 6 pm to 2 am.
Equality Disco at InterContinental Stephen F. Austin
Human Rights Campaign Austin is hosting this funky, all-ages dance party hosted by Colleen DeForrest and featuring beats by DJ Chorizo Funk. General admission starts at 8:30 pm, VIP at 7 pm.
Full Spectrum at Native Hostel
This curated, multi-disciplinary event is meant to reclaim the radical roots of Pride. Performers include Belladonna, Yyyn0t, Mouthfeel, Adiean, Gigi, mid^heaven, KD Kinetic, Kid Pharma, Femme Devour, Cheri Lake, Hyperreal Film Club, and more. The party kicks off at 8 pm.
Sunday, August 11
Brunch Out With Trevor at Hotel Van Zandt
RuPaul’s Drag Race superstar Willam hosts this raucous brunch featuring performances from Louisianna Purchase, Beatrix Lestrange, Boiz of Austin, Miss Shalae, and Kelly Kline. Proceeds from ticket sales and the silent auction help fund the Trevor Project. Grab a plate beginning at noon.
Lez B In Touch Dyke March at Cheer Up Charlies
Part party, part political rally, this inclusive event features Fat Bottom Cabaret founder Nikki DaVaughn, bands, DJs, and a giant inflatable water slide. The daytime party runs from 2-8 pm and donations benefit the Sex Workers Outreach Project.