Austin celebrates Pride Month in August, and the city’s formal celebration is on August 23. Drag shows throughout the city provide chances to celebrate, foster community, and support local LGBTQ+ performers in the weeks preceding it. The Daily Texan compiled a list of five performances that exemplify the vibrant, artistic, and glittering essence of Austin drag.
Lawmaking and Emancipation
Every Tuesday at 7 p.m., LegiSLAYtion and Liberation, which combines entertainment, community service, and education, takes place at Oilcan Harry’s. The evening, which is hosted by Brigitte Bandit, connects guests with local organizations and resources while concentrating on current affairs in the Texas Legislature. With drag shows, bingo, and entertaining activities, the festival offers a safe and friendly environment for learning and celebration.
Austin’s Actual Drag Queens
Highland Lounge will host a performance by the Real Drag Queens of Austin on August 8 at 9:30 p.m. With a special tribute to Madonna in advance of her upcoming remix album Veronica Electronica, this program honors the periods of pop royalty. You can anticipate glitzy, exuberant performances from some of Austin’s most formidable drag queens.
With the Babes for brunch
Every Saturday, Halcyon hosts Brunch With The Babes. Seating begins at 1:30 p.m., and the event starts at 2 p.m. The star-studded lineup of this free, 18+ event has two nominations for Best Drag Showcase, and if tickets sell out, there will be standing room for attendance. This establishment has a comprehensive brunch and cocktail menu, making it the ideal venue for parties.
Drag Show and Dungeons
On August 15, Drag will take on Dungeons & Dragons at Sky Candy in a fantastical evening of burlesque, aerial acts, and intense performances. Doors open at 7:30 p.m., and the show starts at 8:30 p.m., with dragons, knights, and more. A queer market featuring sweets, cakes, sweet rolls, wood paintings, laser-cut jewelry, and purses will be available at the 18+ event.
The Night Drag Benefit Show Legends
During Austin Pride weekend, on August 23 at 10:30 p.m., Highland Lounge will host the Legends of the Night drag benefit show, which features a roster of legendary and stunning performances by Austin drag queens. This late-night event caps off Pride celebrations in style while raising money for regional nonprofits including Austin’s Unite the Fight, the biggest LGBTQ+ gala in Central Texas.
