The Austin Chronicle continues its commitment to reflecting the heart and soul of Austin, Texas, with a focus on the LGBTQ+ community. This column extends a welcome to all, offering updates on local happenings.

Summer Camp for the Local Queer Community

Local Queer ATX is hosting a three-day summer camp experience at Camp Moody in Buda, Texas, from May 23-25. Registration is open until April 23, with tiered ticket options to ensure accessibility for all. Tickets include a camping spot, a commemorative T-shirt, and five meals.

A Variety of Events Across Austin

Despite a challenging start to the year, the Austin queer community continues to thrive. Here’s a look at some of the events taking place:

Nightlife & Performances

  • House of Lepore Kiki: Enjoy Aughts-inspired vibes with Mother Natalie Lepore and DJ Babidoll. Details can be found on centraltxkikiscene on Instagram.
  • 2 Hot 4 Top Drawer Auction After-Hours Shopping: A shopping spree featuring leftover items from last month’s auction, plus sips and treats.
  • Blushin’ Roulette: Frisky Business Burlesque presents an improv game show with performers Amelie Ahmose, Titty Androgynous, Stella Belle, CanDeStroy, and Hips McCoy.
  • Film Screening: Hosted by Smokey Zbornak and Duchess Deville, a screening of a Nineties girl best friends satire.
  • Bichota: Latin pop spun by Lavender Thug, featuring a $150 strip-off prize contest hosted by Harlot.
  • 2000s Throwback: Host Whoopsie Daisy and a cast of performers bring back the sounds of the 2000s.
  • Hot Box with the Bat: A drag show tribute to DC heroes and villains.
  • Sinful Easter: A burlesque, drag, and aerial performance featuring a diverse cast of artists.
  • Resurrection: DJs kiwi and FVLL3N 3GO will play house, techno, disco, and club bangers.
  • Neon Rainbows and Country Fried Dance: A beginner line dance night celebrating the art of country dancing.
  • Drag Competition: Lady Grackle hosts the seventh edition of this drag competition with a cash prize.
  • Oilcan’s Latina Legends: Host Tatiana Cholula and local Latinx drag talent honor Latina music icons.
  • Karaoke Night: A weekly karaoke night hosted by Aira Juliet with specific song rules.

Community & Workshops

  • PFLAG Potluck: A springtime potluck hosted by the local chapter of PFLAG.
  • Textile & Paper Marbling: A collaborative art workshop led by Erin Miller and Adéọlá Ọlágúnjú, part of the MASS exhibition “Ecstatic.”
  • Vocal Pedagogy Workshop: Austin Gay Men’s Chorus leads workshops on trans-centric vocal pedagogy.
  • Community Organization Meeting: A sober space for discussions on building queer unity.
  • Sandwich Making for ATX Free Fridges: A family-friendly event with TLB Nutrition Therapy and OutWellness.
  • Drag Open Mic: Brigitte Bandit hosts a non-competitive drag open mic.

This year has presented challenges, but the spirit of hope remains strong. The Austin Chronicle encourages continued efforts towards a better tomorrow and reminds readers of the importance of supporting independent journalism. Consider donating to help keep local news alive.

James Scott covers queer events and news for the Austin Chronicle. You can find his work on Twitter (@thejokesboy), Bluesky (@thejokesboy), and Instagram (@ghostofelectricity).