LGBTQ+ Events
In Madison, there's no shortage of events on any given day or night of the week, including many that celebrate and provide safe spaces for the LGBTQ+ community. From sporting events, to live music, to drag bingo and more, Madison's wide variety of LGBTQ+ events provide something for all interests and identities.
Whether you're a local resident seeking LGBTQ+ events happening this weekend or a visitor in the midst of planning your trip, this list of events is guaranteed to highlight Madison's vibrant and welcoming atmosphere.
For a full list of all events happening in Madison, check out our event calendar.
March
Fringe Festival | March 1
This weekend-long arts festival at the Overture Center is a celebration of creative energy around the globe, inspired by Edinburgh Fringe Festival. This festival features six one-of-a-kind performances, including improv, drag performances, theater and comedy.
Oh, My! It's Cheshire Cat Comedy's 300th Show! | March 5
A comedy variety spectacle celebrating a wide variety of Cheshire Cat Comedy's entertainment mainstays including stand-up, drag, burlesque and musical comedy!
Drag Queen Bingo with Victoria Lynn | March 6
Head to Lucille for five rounds of dynamic bingo hosted by Drag Queen Victoria Lynn. Enjoy dinner in the restaurant before bingo and head downstairs to the lounge for cocktails and festivities!
Queer and Ally Craft-A-Long | March 6 & 20
Every other Friday, The Sow's Ear in Verona hosts their free Queer and Ally Crafting Night. Bring your own craft, learn a new skill, make a new friend or just enjoy a crafty, wholesome hangout.
The Big Gay Spring Market | March 15
The mission of The Big Gay Market is to host inclusive, welcoming and fun markets for the Madison community and beyond. The spring market will be held at the Wisconsin Rugby Complex in Cottage Grove.
Spring Fling Drag Bingo & Brunch | March 15
The Great Dane in Fitchburg is hosting a Drag Bingo & Brunch hosted by Bianca Lynn Breeze. Join in for a fierce, fun and fabulous Sunday brunch!
Drag Queen Bingo! | March 17
On the third Tuesday of every month, head to Delta Beer Lab for Drag Queen Bingo nights, hosted by local queen, Kendra Banx$. This is a first-come, first-served event, so arrive early to secure your spot.
Gayla 2026 | March 21
Join QLaw in celebrating the legal contributions of LGBTQIA+ lawyers with a night of food, drinks and entertainment at the Madison Concourse Hotel. Complimentary hors d'oeuvres and hosted wine and draft beer are included in the price of your ticket.
1980s vs 2010s Drag Brunch | March 22
Get ready to rewind and fast forward a this high-energy, high-glam showdown of the decades! Enjoy food trucks and beverages for purchase at the Bur Oak.
2026 OutReach's Tea Dance | March 22
OutReach LGBTQ+ is hosting a their second annual Tea Dance at Goodman Community Center. Join in for Sunday afternoon tea, live music, hors d'oeuvres and speed friending.
Queer & Trans Open Mic Night | March 25
On the last Wednesday of each month from 7–9 p.m., A Room of One's Own Bookstore hosts an open mic night for queer and transgender authors and artists to share their work. Arrive early if you're hoping to perform as there are only 15 slots available! Allies are welcome to attend in the audience—performance time is held for LGBTQIA2S+.
Corpus Christi by Terrance McNally | March 20–April 4
StageQ, Wisconsin's Queer Theatre, presents Corpus Christi, a play by Terrance McNally, at The Bartell Theatre. Learn more about the play and it's story at StageQ's website.
Hot Summer Gays Queerly Beloved | March 28
DJ's Femme Noir and Fuzzy Duck are hosting Hot Summer Gays Queerly Beloved at the Gamma Ray Bar in downtown Madison. Dance the night away and stick around for a karaoke afterparty!
Trans Day of Visibility Market | March 31
Each year on March 31 the world observes Transgender Day of Visibility (TDOV) to raise awareness about transgender people. Giant Jones Brewing Company presents the Trans Day of Visibility Market & Resource Fair at A Room of One's Own Bookstore.
April
Miss Isthmus | April 9–11
Save the date for an unforgettable night at The Rigby as contestants compete for the Miss Isthmus title, starring Victoria Lynn.
Monét X Change at Comedy on State | April 9–11
Monét X Change is an entertainment spitfire and the first double crown winner from Rupaul’s Drag Race having earned the title Miss Congeniality on Season 10 and becoming the first queen of color inducted into the hall of fame after winning All-Stars 4. Get tickets today for the chance to see her live at Comedy on State.
Drag Bingo with Bianca Lynn Breeze & Dee Dee Pur | April 9–11
Enjoy a night full of lighthearted fun for drag bingo hosted by hosted by Bianca Lynn Breeze & Dee Dee Pur at Comedy on State.
Drag Queen Bingo! | April 21
On the third Tuesday of every month, head to Delta Beer Lab for Drag Queen Bingo nights, hosted by local queen, Kendra Banx$. This is a first-come, first-served event, so arrive early to secure your spot.
Queer & Trans Open Mic Night | April 29
On the last Wednesday of each month from 7–9 p.m., A Room of One's Own Bookstore hosts an open mic night for queer and transgender authors and artists to share their work. Arrive early if you're hoping to perform as there are only 15 slots available! Allies are welcome to attend in the audience—performance time is held for LGBTQIA2S+.
Madison Queer & Trans Potluck | TBA 2026
The Madison Trans Resistance Action Committee is hosting a community potluck at Brittingham Park. Meet your neighbors and organizations working to build community power and resilience in Madison and Dane County and celebrate queer and trans joy with food, friends, games and more! Stay tuned for more information on the 2026 potluck.
May
Drag Queen Bingo! | May 19
On the third Tuesday of every month, head to Delta Beer Lab for Drag Queen Bingo nights, hosted by local queen, Kendra Banx$. This is a first-come, first-served event, so arrive early to secure your spot.
Queer & Trans Open Mic Night | May 27
On the last Wednesday of each month from 7–9 p.m., A Room of One's Own Bookstore hosts an open mic night for queer and transgender authors and artists to share their work. Arrive early if you're hoping to perform as there are only 15 slots available! Allies are welcome to attend in the audience—performance time is held for LGBTQIA2S+.
June
CapitalQ Theatre Festival: Queer Shorts | June 5–13
StageQ is taking over Drury Stage at the Bartell Theatre for two weekends in a row. Join in the annual Pride month celebration with brand new play readings, 10-minute shorts and one-act plays by up-and-coming queer playwrights from around the country.
Middleton Pride 2026 | June 13
Join The Good Neighbor City for its annual Middleton Pride Festival. This family-friendly festival will include two Drag Story Hours, performances from local school ensembles and home-grown DJ Stu as well as featuring nearly 30 vendors, area organizations and Queer-affirming businesses.
Drag Queen Bingo! | June 16
On the third Tuesday of every month, head to Delta Beer Lab for Drag Queen Bingo nights, hosted by local queen, Kendra Banx$. This is a first-come, first-served event, so arrive early to secure your spot.
Queer & Trans Open Mic Night | June 24
On the last Wednesday of each month from 7–9 p.m., A Room of One's Own Bookstore hosts an open mic night for queer and transgender authors and artists to share their work. Arrive early if you're hoping to perform as there are only 15 slots available! Allies are welcome to attend in the audience—performance time is held for LGBTQIA2S+.
Madison Circus Space Pride Show | TBA 2026
This show celebrates queer identities and experiences through circus arts and all proceeds will go to support Madison Circus Space and OutReach LGBTQ+ Community Center. Check back for more information on the 2026 event.
Forward Madison FC—Pride Night | TBA 2026
Join the Mingo's for Pride Night! Forward Madison FC's themed nights are matches you won't want to miss! Grab your Pride Pack tickets and get a ticket to the match against Union Omaha plus a Forward Madison FC pride scarf.
Drag Bingo and Brunch | TBA 2026
Enjoy brunch at the Great Dane Pub & Brewing Co. in Fitchburg at Drag Bingo & Brunch featuring Akasha Voyer, Ellah Maeaux, and hosted by Bianca Lynn Breeze.
Delta Pride Celebration | TBA 2026
Celebrate Pride at Delta Beer Lab with live music, local food vendors and specialty cocktails. Queer-friendly local vendors, nonprofits and community organizations will be present with booths to visit and learn more. Mark your calendars and bring your friends!
The Big Gay Pride Market | TBA 2026
Celebrate Pride at the Alliant Energy Center with three days of activities including queer comedy shows, queer and ally vendors, a drag show, drag bingo and more!
Pride Night at Henry Vilas Zoo | TBA 2026
Celebrate Pride at Henry Vilas Zoo during this 18+ event featuring pop-up drag performances, queer ecology trivia, exclusive access to animal buildings, free carousel and train rides, pride themed enrichment demonstrations and more!
Pride Drag Brunch | TBA 2026
Get your tickets to Atwood Music Hall's drag brunch hosted by Bianca Lynn Breeze and featuring Setareh Ouellet-Sodi, Bambii Banx$, Krystal Kuttabish and Iiman K Trinidad.
Pride on the Trollway | TBA 2026
Join PFLAG Mount Horeb in their annual Pride walk led by the Forward Marching Band. Stick around after the walk to enjoy live music from a local band, food trucks and more family-friendly fun.
Sun Prairie Pride Fest | TBA 2026
Celebrate in Sun Prairie at their annual Pride fest with food and drink, a parade, family-friendly activities and live entertainment. New in 2025, don't miss a special concert event with Grammy-nominated artists, Jennifer Knapp and Mary Lambert.
July
Drag Queen Bingo! | July 21
On the third Tuesday of every month, head to Delta Beer Lab for Drag Queen Bingo nights, hosted by local queen, Kendra Banx$. This is a first-come, first-served event, so arrive early to secure your spot.
Hot Summer Gays at Fête de Marquette | TBA 2026
Hot Summer Gays is playing at Madison's 19th annual Fête de Marquette festival. You won't want to miss this big queer dance party!
Fish & Fabulous at The Forward Club | TBA 2026
Indulge in a Wisconsin fish fry buffet in the Forward Club at Breese Stevens Field while enjoying fabulous drag performances. This event is hosted by Bianca Lynn Breeze, and features performances by Loretta Love, Beverly Bee and Jasper Madison.
Hot Summer Gays | TBA 2026
The big queer dance party of the summer that you won't want to miss! This event is hosted at Atwood Music Hall and features DJs Sarah Akawa, Fuzzy Duck & Millbot.
August
Drag Queen Bingo! | August 18
On the third Tuesday of every month, head to Delta Beer Lab for Drag Queen Bingo nights, hosted by local queen, Kendra Banx$. This is a first-come, first-served event, so arrive early to secure your spot.
OutReach Magic Festival: A Pride Celebration | TBA 2026
OutReach LGBTQ+ Community Center is hosting its 6th Annual Magic Pride Festival at Warner Park. With stage shows by local LGBTQ+ identified performers, various local vendors, food, beverages and activities for youth, families and more, this Pride festival is one of a kind.
Hot Summer Gays—Picture Day | TBA 2026
The big queer dance party of the summer that you won't want to miss! This event is hosted at the High Noon Saloon and features DJ Sarah Akawa, DJ Femme Noir, & DJ All The Way Kay.
Madtown Scrumdown Rugby 15s Tournament | TBA 2026
This International Gay Rugby tournament, hosted by the Madison Minotaurs, is back for its 6th edition at the Wisconsin Rugby Complex. Register your team to play in the tournament, or mark your calendars and come cheer on your favorite team!
September
Drag Queen Bingo! | September 15
On the third Tuesday of every month, head to Delta Beer Lab for Drag Queen Bingo nights, hosted by local queen, Kendra Banx$. This is a first-come, first-served event, so arrive early to secure your spot.
Rainbow Happy Hour | TBA 2026
This happy hour at Delta Beer Lab is open to ALL people who are members of the LGBTQ+ community, as well as any friends and allies. Come as you are! The happy hour is from 5-7:30pm.
Drag Bingo & Brunch at The Dane | TBA 2026
Fall into a fabulous, fun morning of Drag Bingo & Brunch at The Great Dane in Fitchburg. Bianca & the Babes bring Brunch Bingo!
Bad Girls Drag Brunch | TBA 2026
Get ready to unleash your inner rebel at the Bur Oak during Bad Girls Drag Brunch—a fierce and fabulous celebration inspired by the icons who broke the rules and owned the stage: Rihanna, Miley Cyrus, Madonna, Janis Joplin, and more!
October
Drag Queen Bingo! | October 20
On the third Tuesday of every month, head to Delta Beer Lab for Drag Queen Bingo nights hosted by local queen, Kendra Banx$. This is a first-come, first-served event, so arrive early to secure your spot.
Drag & Dab For a Difference | TBA 2026
Attend the Drag Queen Bingo Fundraiser at Delta Beer Lab this October! Support families with special needs dependents as they plan for the future while enjoying a night of fun and fierce fundraising.
Hot Flash: An Early Dance Party | TBA 2026
The dance party takes place every first Friday of the month at Cardinal Bar. Dance the night away, without being out too late, with DJ Milbot and other local rotating DJs. This is an LGBTQ+ affirming space.
National Coming Out Day Breakfast | TBA 2026
Join the Wisconsin LGBT Chamber of Commerce at the Overture Center for the Arts for the 10th annual National Coming Out Day Breakfast. See website for more information on ticket prices.
Halloween Carnival & Queer Liberation March Fundraiser | TBA 2026
Mark your calendars for a night of spooky fun including music, scary movies, a photo booth, clothing and costume swap, a costume contest, raffle and more at Crucible! All money raised will go towards the 2026 Queer Liberation March.
Drag Bingo with Bianca Lynn Breeze & Renae Sance | TBA 2026
Bianca Lynn Breeze and Renae Sance will be a hosting a lighthearted, fun night of drag bingo at Comedy on State.
Plant Drag Bingo | TBA 2026
Visit the Rigby for a fun and leafy launch with hosts Bianca Lynn Breeze and Plant Daddy Michael Lynn, presented by Warm Belly Farms and Bianca Lynn Breeze Productions. Admission includes performance and 10 rounds of bingo.
The Big Gay Spooky Market | TBA 2026
The mission of The Big Gay Market is to host inclusive, welcoming and fun markets for the Madison community and beyond. This spooky-themed market will be held at the Wisconsin Rugby Complex in Cottage Grove.
Hallow-Queen Drag Brunch | TBA 2026
Slay this spooky season with a brunch that's serving fierce looks, performances and all the Halloween glam at the Bur Oak! This event is hosted by Bianca Lynn Breeze and features performances by many other fabulous drag queens.
Queer & Trans Open Mic Night | TBA 2026
On the last Wednesday of each month from 7–9 p.m., A Room of One's Own Bookstore hosts an open mic night for queer and transgender authors and artists to share their work. Arrive early if you're hoping to perform as there are only 15 slots available! Allies are welcome to attend in the audience—performance time is held for LGBTQIA2S+.
Dressed to Kill | TBA 2026
Cheshire Cat Comedy presents stand-up with a wicked makeover. Get ready for a night of killer looks and deadly punchlines during this stand up show at The Rigby. This event is hosted by Aris Awes and features David Fisher, Mike Jonjak, Diego Avila and Peggy Hurley.
November
Drag Queen Bingo! | November 17
On the third Tuesday of every month, head to Delta Beer Lab for Drag Queen Bingo, hosted by local queen, Kendra Banx$. This is a first-come, first-served event, so arrive early to secure your spot.
Hidden Cave Comedy: Drag Takeover | TBA 2026
Madison native, Aris Awes is partnering with Hidden Cave Cidery's owner, Walker Fanning, to bring you a night of comedy. Dress up in your Halloween costume and enjoy a mix of drag and stand-up comedy from Dee Dee Pur, Diego Avila, MadamLacy, Aristotle Ares and Sasha Rosser.
Make America Gay Again | TBA 2026
Cheshire Cat Comedy presents the return of this ultra-queer drag and comedy show, Make American Gay Again, at Crucible. This event is hosted by Chicago drag star and stand-up comedian, Derry Queen and features other beloved musicians, comedians and drag performers.
Drag Brunch & Bingo: Taylors Version | TBA 2026
The Graduate Madison is hosting a Swiftie style party with drag performances, bingo and a buffet!
Grease Drag Brunch | TBA 2026
Hand-jive your way into a fabulous afternoon at the Bur Oak! Bianca Lynn Breeze will be your host of this high-energy show and brunch experience.
Drag Bingo with Bianca Lynn Breeze | TBA 2026
Enjoy a fabulous night of drag bingo, featuring Bianca Lynn Breeze, at Doundrins Distilling! Admission gets you 10 rounds of bingo and a shot.
Queer & Trans Open Mic Night | TBA 2026
On the last Wednesday of each month from 7–9 p.m., A Room of One's Own Bookstore hosts an open mic night for queer and transgender authors and artists to share their work. Arrive early if you're hoping to perform as there are only 15 slots available! Allies are welcome to attend in the audience—performance time is held for LGBTQIA2S+.
December
Drag Queen Bingo! | December 15
On the third Tuesday of every month, head to Delta Beer Lab for Drag Queen Bingo nights, hosted by local queen, Kendra Banx$. This is a first-come, first-served event, so arrive early to secure your spot.
Drag Queen Bingo with Bianca and Lucy | TBA 2026
Enjoy a night full of lighthearted fun at Comedy on State, hosted by Bianca Lynn Breeze & Lucy Von Cucci.
Queer and Ally Craft-A-Long | TBA 2026
Head to The Sow's Ear in Verona and craft alongside your queer community and allies! Bring your own craft, learn a new skill, make a new friend or just enjoy a crafty, wholesome hangout.
A Very Mariah Drag Brunch | TBA 2026
Bianca Lynn Breeze Productions presents A Very Mariah Drag Brunch at the Bur Oak. Hosted by Bianca Lynn Breeze, this event will feature dazzling performances to holiday songs by Montell Infiniti Ross, Eliel, Bambii Banx$ and Lucinda Reer.
Drag Bingo with Bianca Lynn Breeze | TBA 2026
Enjoy a fabulous night of drag bingo, featuring Bianca Lynn Breeze, at Doundrins Distilling! Admission gets you 10 rounds of bingo and a shot.
The Big Gay Holiday Market | TBA 2026
The mission of The Big Gay Market is to host inclusive, welcoming and fun markets for the Madison community and beyond. Shop art, gifts and goods from local LGBTQ+ makers.
December Drag Brunch | TBA 2026
Get in the holiday spirit with this festive drag brunch at The Rigby. Enjoy a full brunch menu, holiday drink specials and an unforgettable show featuring various performers! The theme for this month is Ugly Sweater Contest along with a holiday food drive in partnership with Second Harvest.
Queer & Trans Open Mic Night | TBA 2026
On the last Wednesday of each month from 7–9 p.m., A Room of One's Own Bookstore hosts an open mic night for queer and transgender authors and artists to share their work. Arrive early if you're hoping to perform as there are only 15 slots available! Allies are welcome to attend in the audience—performance time is held for LGBTQIA2S+.
January
Wicked Drag Brunch & Bingo | TBA 2027
The Graduate by Hilton Madison is hosting a Wicked themed drag performance. Enjoy a brunch buffet, eight rounds of Bingo and drag performances by four queens!
Wisconsin Drag Awards | TBA 2027
The Wisconsin Drag Awards returns to The Sylvee. The 2026 theme is black and white, so get those dazzling, monochromatic looks ready to celebrate the incredible talent in the drag community.
Drag Queen Bingo! | TBA 2027
On the third Tuesday of every month, head to Delta Beer Lab for Drag Queen Bingo nights, hosted by local queen Kendra Banx$. This is a first-come, first-served event, so arrive early to secure your spot.
Diva Candle Making Workshop w/ Bianca Lynn Breeze | TBA 2027
Bianca Lynn Breeze will host a candle making workshop at Wisco Home Goods in Cottage Grove. Join for a fabulous experience where rhinestones, glam and wax collide in a riot of color and scent.
Queer & Trans Open Mic Night | TBA 2027
On the last Wednesday of each month from 7–9 p.m., A Room of One's Own Bookstore hosts an open mic night for queer and transgender authors and artists to share their work. Arrive early if you're hoping to perform as there are only 15 slots available! Allies are welcome to attend in the audience—performance time is held for LGBTQIA2S+.
Make America Gay Again: A Comedy Show | TBA 2027
Cheshire Cat Comedy is bringing back its hit show with a lineup of queer stand-up and drag performances, hosted by Chicago drag star/stand-up comedian, Derry Queen!
February
Drag Queen Bingo at Hop Haus Brewing Co. | TBA 2027
Join Bianca Lynn Breeze, Anita Bobbypin, Venezia Sodi and Angel Voyer for bingo and a show at Hop Haus Brewing Co. in Fitchburg. Tickets are required prior to the event.
Miss Rigby 2026 | TBA 2027
Join others at The Rigby for an unforgettable night of glamour, talent and competition as Miss Rigby 2026 snatches her crown. This is a Miss Club Wisconsin qualifying contest.
Queer and Ally Craft-A-Long | TBA 2027
Every other Friday, The Sow's Ear in Verona hosts their free Queer and Ally Crafting Night. Bring your own craft, learn a new skill, make a new friend or just enjoy a crafty, wholesome hangout.
Love vs. Hate: Drag Brunch | TBA 2027
Celebrate the aftermath of Valentine’s Day with a deliciously campy showdown of passion, sass and self-love. This event is hosted by Bianca Lynn Breeze and includes performances by a powerhouse cast at The Bur Oak.
Drag Bingo with Bianca Lynn Breeze | TBA 2027
Enjoy a fabulous night of drag bingo featuring Bianca Lynn Breeze at Doundrins Distilling. Admission gets you 10 rounds of Bingo and a shot.
Drag Queen Bingo! | TBA 2027
On the third Tuesday of every month, head to Delta Beer Lab for Drag Queen Bingo nights, hosted by local queen, Kendra Banx$. This is a first-come, first-served event, so arrive early to secure your spot.
Burlesque Show | TBA 2027
Burlesque at The Rigby is a queer, Black varie-tease show presented by Melanin Moonlight Magix. Enjoy drag performances, live singing and more!
Queer & Trans Open Mic Night | TBA 2027
On the last Wednesday of each month from 7–9 p.m., A Room of One's Own Bookstore hosts an open mic night for queer and transgender authors and artists to share their work. Arrive early if you're hoping to perform as there are only 15 slots available! Allies are welcome to attend in the audience—performance time is held for LGBTQIA2S+.
Idol Worship: Mink Stole & Peaches Christ | TBA 2027
Peaches Christ and Mink Stole are bringing their Idol Worship tour to Atwood Music Hall this February. Expect outrageous stories, revelations, film clips and rare archival moments.
