A beginner’s guide to drag shows: What to bring, where to go, and more!

If you’ve never been to a drag show before, or if it’s been a while since your last one, you might be wondering what to expect. Drag shows are an essential part of LGBTQ+ culture and an unforgettable experience for travelers looking to dive into local nightlife.

Attending a drag show is a fun and meaningful way to connect with the local LGBTQ+ community. It’s a chance to see how drag is celebrated in different places and support local performers who keep this art form alive and thriving.

Whether you’re curious about what goes on at a drag show, what you should bring, or where to find the best venues, this guide will give you everything you need to know before you go.

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What to expect at a drag show

A drag show is where drag performers, usually queens but sometimes kings or other gender-bending acts, take the stage to entertain through a mix of lip-syncing, live singing, and humor.

The vibe can range from light-hearted fun to thought-provoking performances, depending on the venue and the artists. It’s an interactive experience—audiences are encouraged to cheer, laugh, and even tip the performers, so bring some cash!

Drag shows are held in a variety of spaces- from bars and nightclubs to theaters and weekend brunch spots. No matter where you catch a show, the energy is high, and the performances are captivating. The atmosphere is generally inclusive and welcoming, making it a great experience whether you’re part of the LGBTQ+ community or simply curious about the art form.

What to bring to a drag show

Before heading to a drag show, it’s good to be prepared so you can fully enjoy the experience and show your support. Here’s a quick rundown of what to bring to make the most of your night out:

1. Cash or Venmo for tips: While it’s traditional to tip performers with cash, many drag queens now accept tips via Venmo or other digital payment apps. Be sure to have some cash on hand or your smartphone ready to show your appreciation.
2. Smartphone for pics and tags: Your smartphone isn’t just for snapping photos and videos of the performances—it’s also great for tagging the queens on social media. Most performers love the shoutouts, and it’s a fun way to stay connected after the show.
3. Comfortable yet stylish outfit: Dress to impress, but make sure you’re comfortable enough to enjoy the night. Drag shows are all about self-expression, so feel free to get creative with your look, especially if there’s a theme to the show.
4. An open mind: Drag shows are about pushing boundaries and celebrating individuality. Come ready to enjoy the experience, no matter what surprises are in store.
5. Positive energy: The performers feed off the crowd, so bring your enthusiasm and be ready to cheer them on. The more energy you give, the better the show will be for everyone!

How to find drag shows while traveling

When you’re on the road, it’s easy to find a drag show with a little research. Here are some tips:

• Search for LGBTQ+ venues: Most major cities have bars or clubs that cater to LGBTQ+ crowds, and many of these venues host regular drag shows. Sites and apps like GayCities, Yelp, and Google Maps are great tools for finding these spots.
• Check social media: Follow drag performers or local LGBTQ+ accounts on Instagram or Twitter to see what shows are happening. Many performers (and bars) post their schedules online, making it easy to plan your night around their appearances.
• Look for drag brunches: Drag brunches are popular across many cities and offer a fun way to combine food and entertainment. Platforms like our events page, OpenTable, or local event listings can help you find one near you.

Top cities for drag shows

When it comes to drag shows, some cities stand out as true hubs of drag culture, offering unforgettable performances and vibrant scenes worth traveling for.

In the U.S., New York City is legendary, with venues like The Stonewall Inn, Hardware Bar, and Barracuda Lounge anchoring the drag scene. Los Angeles, particularly West Hollywood, is another hotspot where you can catch rising stars and established queens at iconic places like Hamburger Mary’s WeHo, The Abbey, and Micky’s WeHo. Chicago offers a thriving drag culture at Roscoe’s Tavern, Hydrate, and Sidetrack, where you can see both local talent and famous performers.

Across the Atlantic, London boasts a booming drag scene, with venues like The Divine and The Royal Vauxhall Tavern hosting some of the best drag shows in Europe. Berlin is another popular drag destination; known for its eclectic and avant-garde performances at clubs like Monster Ronson’s and SO36.

In Latin America, Mexico City has a vibrant and growing drag community, with shows at places like Cabaretito and Salón Gardenia offering a unique blend of local culture and drag artistry.

If you’re heading to Australia, Sydney’s drag scene is not to be missed, with the iconic Stonewall Hotel and Universal playing host to some of the country’s best performers. Meanwhile, Bangkok has become an unexpected gem for drag shows in Asia, with venues like The Stranger Bar offering high-energy performances that draw locals and tourists alike.

No matter where your travels take you, catching a drag show is a great way to experience the local LGBTQ+ culture and support queer performers.

Be respectful and have fun!

Whether planning a night out or looking for something unique to do while traveling, a drag show is a must-see experience. Cities like New York, Chicago, London, and Sydney offer some of the best drag performances, but don’t overlook smaller cities or lesser-known venues—you might discover a new favorite performer or show that surprises you.

Remember to tip, bring your best attitude, and most importantly, enjoy the show.

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