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.
November
Hidden Cave Comedy: Drag Takeover | November 1
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 American Gay Again | November 6
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 | November 9
The Graduate Madison is hosting a Swiftie style party with drag performances, bingo and a buffet!
Grease Drag Brunch | November 16
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 Queen Bingo! | November 18
On the third Tuesday of every month, head to Delta Beer Lab for Drag Queen Bingo, hosted by local queen, Kendra Banx$. This is a first-come, first-served event, so arrive early to secure your spot.
Drag Bingo with Bianca Lynn Breeze | November 18
Enjoy a fabulous night of drag bingo, featuring Bianca Lynn Breeze, at Doundrins Distilling! Admission gets you 10 rounds of bingo and a shot.
Queer & Trans Open Mic Night | November 26
On the last Wednesday of each month from 7–9 p.m., A Room of One's Own Bookstore hosts an open mic night for queer and transgender authors and artists to share their work. Arrive early if you're hoping to perform as there are only 15 slots available! Allies are welcome to attend in the audience—performance time is held for LGBTQIA2S+.
December
Drag Queen Bingo with Bianca and Lucy | December 9
Enjoy a night full of lighthearted fun at Comedy on State, hosted by Bianca Lynn Breeze & Lucy Von Cucci.
A Very Mariah Drag Brunch | December 14
Bianca Lynn Breeze Productions presents A Very Mariah Drag Brunch at the Bur Oak. Hosted by Bianca Lynn Breeze, this event will feature dazzling performances to holiday songs by Montell Infiniti Ross, Eliel, Bambii Banx$ and Lucinda Reer.
Drag Queen Bingo! | December 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.
Drag Bingo with Bianca Lynn Breeze | December 16
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 | December 19–20
The mission of The Big Gay Market is to host inclusive, welcoming, and fun maker/local business markets for the Madison community and beyond. Check back for more information on the 2025 holiday-themed market.
Queer & Trans Open Mic Night | December 31
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
Wisconsin Drag Awards | January 18, 2026
The Wisconsin Drag Awards will be returning to The Sylvee. The 2026 theme is black & white, so get those dazzling, monochromatic looks ready to celebrate the incredible talent in the drag community.
February
Monét X Change at Comedy on State | February 12–14, 2026
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 in Madison, WI.
March
Trans Day of Visibility Market | March 31, 2026
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
Madison Queer & Trans Potluck | April 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.
June
Make America Gay Again: A Comedy Show | June 2026
Cheshire Cat Comedy brings back its hit show with a lineup of queer stand-up and drag performers as they unite to MAKE AMERICA GAY AGAIN at Crucible Madison. This event is hosted by Chicago-based drag star and stand-up comedian, Derry Queen.
Madison Circus Space Pride Show | June 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 | June 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 | June 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 | June 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 | June 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!
CapitalQ Theater Festival | June 2026
For the 4th year, 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 2025 | June 2026
Join The Good Neighbor City for its second 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.
Pride Night at Henry Vilas Zoo | June 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!
Drag Queen Bingo! | June 2026
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.
Pride Drag Brunch | June 2026
Get your tickets to Atwood Music Hall's drag brunch hosted by Bianca Lynn Breeze and featuring Setareh Ouellet-Sodi, Bambii Banx$, Krystal Kuttabish and Iiman K Trinidad.
Pride on the Trollway | June 2026
Join PFLAG Mount Horeb in their annual Pride walk led by the Forward Marching Band. Stick around after the walk to enjoy live music from a local band, food trucks and more family-friendly fun.
Queer & Trans Open Mic Night | June 2026
On the last Wednesday of each month from 7–9 p.m., A Room of One's Own Bookstore hosts an open mic night for queer and transgender authors and artists to share their work. Arrive early if you're hoping to perform as there are only 15 slots available! Allies are welcome to attend in the audience—performance time is held for LGBTQIA2S+.
Sun Prairie Pride Fest | June 2026
Celebrate in Sun Prairie at their annual Pride fest with food and drink, a parade, family-friendly activities and live entertainment. New in 2025, don't miss a special concert event with Grammy-nominated artists, Jennifer Knapp and Mary Lambert.
July
Hot Summer Gays at Fête de Marquette | July 2026
Hot Summer Gays is playing at Madison's 19th annual Fête de Marquette festival. You won't want to miss this big queer dance party!
Drag Queen Bingo! | July 2026
On the third Tuesday of every month, head to Delta Beer Lab for Drag Queen Bingo nights, hosted by local queen, Kendra Banx$. This is a first-come, first-served event, so arrive early to secure your spot.
Fish & Fabulous at The Forward Club | July 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 | July 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
OutReach Magic Festival: A Pride Celebration | August 2026
OutReach LGBTQ+ Community Center is hosting it's 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.
Drag Queen Bingo! | August 2026
On the third Tuesday of every month, head to Delta Beer Lab for Drag Queen Bingo nights, hosted by local queen, Kendra Banx$. This is a first-come, first-served event, so arrive early to secure your spot.
Hot Summer Gays—Picture Day | August 2026
The big queer dance party of the summer that you won't want to miss! This event is hosted at the High Noon Saloon and features DJ Sarah Akawa, DJ Femme Noir, & DJ All The Way Kay.
Madtown Scrumdown Rugby 15s Tournament | August 2026
This International Gay Rugby tournament, hosted by the Madison Minotaurs, is back for its 6th edition at the Wisconsin Rugby Complex. Register your team to play in the tournament, or mark your calendars and come cheer on your favorite team!
September
Rainbow Happy Hour | September 2026
This happy hour at Delta Beer Lab is open to ALL people who are members of the LGBTQ+ community, as well as any friends and allies. Come as you are! The happy hour is from 5-7:30pm.
Drag Bingo & Brunch at The Dane | September 2026
Fall into a fabulous, fun morning of Drag Bingo & Brunch at The Great Dane in Fitchburg. Bianca & the Babes bring Brunch Bingo!
Drag Queen Bingo! | September 2026
On the third Tuesday of every month, head to Delta Beer Lab for Drag Queen Bingo nights, hosted by local queen, Kendra Banx$. This is a first-come, first-served event, so arrive early to secure your spot.
Bad Girls Drag Brunch | September 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 & Dab For a Difference | October 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 | October 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 | October 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 | October 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 | October 2026
Bianca Lynn Breeze and Renae Sance will be a hosting a lighthearted, fun night of drag bingo at Comedy on State.
Drag Queen Bingo! | October 2026
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.
Plant Drag Bingo | October 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 | October 26
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 | October 26
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 | October 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+.
Dressed to Kill | October 31
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.
