The Pink Party started off as a coin-toss of sorts. After all, the Downtown Long Beach Association (DLBA) was essentially gambling on a single question: Would the LGBTQ community–heaven forbid–vacate its Broadway enclave to truck downtown in order to celebrate Pride?
They did. And they have ever since for the past five years.
The event–hosted by Long Beach’s Jewels–will cater to the growing fanbase phenomenon that is RuPaul’s Drag Race.
“The awareness and appreciation of the drag art form has seen a dynamic increase due in large part to this very popular reality show,” said Jewels.
A crop of Race veterans will grace the stage this year including LaTrice Royale (all tea, no shade), Jessica Wild (Latina realness), Detox (we all know you got ripped this season, gurl), Delta Work (who has been seen regularly at The Suite), and Sonique (whom my father has a crush on).
And let’s not forget the local offerings of Flame Monroe, Kristie Champagne, Sparkle Stone, Big Dee and drag king Landon Cider–the latter of whom, if you haven’t, you must see. His Adam Lambert is spot on.
Even more, part of the proceeds benefit The Center’s MYTE program.
“I am so blessed to be involved with the Pink Party yet again,” Jewels said. “Each year, the love, support, and sense of community that it provides is astounding. I am so proud of our city for uniting–and producing–this event.”
The Pink Party will occur tomorrow, May 17, from 8Pm to midnight in the East Village Arts District at the intersection of 1st Street and Linden Avenue. Parking is available in surface lot number seven, located at Elm and Broadway. The cost of admission is $10 at the door and can be purchased here. Please note from May 17 at 2:00pm until May 18 at 2:00am, Linden Avenue from 1st Street to Broadway, and 1st Street from Linden to Elm avenues will be closed.