Windsor-Essex PrideFest 2024

A Weekend of Unity, Glamour, and Celebration

WINDSOR, Ontario - Windsor-Essex Pride Fest 2024 was a resounding success, bringing together the LGBTQ+ community and allies for a weekend full of vibrant performances, joyful celebrations, and unforgettable moments. From August 9th to August 11th, the festival transformed Lanspeary Park into a haven of pride and unity, showcasing a diverse lineup of drag performances, dance parties, and community events that left attendees buzzing with excitement.

Friday Night: United Dance Party

The weekend kicked off on Friday night with the United Dance Party at Lanspeary Park, a free event that brought out the best in Windsor’s LGBTQ+ nightlife. DJ Kevin Bailey set the tone with infectious beats, while special guests Mercury Retrograde, Angelina Lepore, Hudson Bae, B. Martini, and Epoxy—who stepped in for Lua—kept the energy soaring.

Hudson Bae’s striking leather ensemble set the mood for a night of fierce fashion and dance. B. Martini, living her Pink Pony Club fantasy, delivered a show-stopping performance to Chappell Roan's "HOT TO GO," while Angelina Lepore captivated in an all-black ensemble, exuding elegance and mystery. Mercury Retrograde brought her burlesque roots to the forefront, wowing the crowd with her big Peggy Bundy red wig, leopard print dress, and fire act, which included setting her tongue ablaze. Epoxy, initially there to MC, couldn’t resist the stage and joined in with her signature blue hair and fearless attitude. The United Dance Party was a dynamic start to the weekend, setting the bar high for the events to follow.

Saturday: Queens of Pride

Saturday’s Queens of Pride event at Lanspeary Park was the festival’s crown jewel, featuring an all-star lineup of drag performers. Trinity The Tuck Taylor, from RuPaul’s Drag Race season 9 and All Stars season 4 winner, and Aimee Yonce Shennel from Canada’s Drag Race season 4 headlined the event, delivering show-stopping performances that had the audience on their feet.

The first set opened with Epoxy in striking black and white zebra stripes, followed by Vanity Affair in a hot pink and black vinyl outfit. Benz Menova teased the audience with a pole dance, while Venom Vonsnaps, with backup dancers Hudson Bae and Belle Vyra, delivered a high-energy performance. Lena Di amazed with her silver coat and electric blue dress, while Star, full of life in a skin-toned bodysuit with primary colors, dazzled the audience. Aimee Yonce Shennel brought the crowd to life in a black and lime green vinyl coat, while Trinity The Tuck seduced the audience with a slow and sultry number, leaving everyone wanting more.

The second set saw Venom Vonsnaps returning in a hot pink gown, Benz Menova in a seductive pole dance, and Epoxy in an iridescent ensemble. Star shone in a light blue blazer with shimmering tinsel, Vanity Affair made a bold statement with a black-hands-with-red-nails ensemble, and Lena Di brought high-energy dance moves in red feathers. Aimee Yonce Shennel returned in a sexy genie look, granting every audience’s wish, while Trinity closed the show with a shimmering black and red outfit, showcasing her perfect curves.

Saturday Night: GLITTERBALL

After Queens of Pride, the GLITTERBALL at Waters Edge Event Centre kept the party going. DJ Josh Karmin kept the crowd moving all night, with special performances by Van Goth, Dulce, Liquorice, and Elixia adding to the electric atmosphere.

Sunday: Pride Day and Show Your Colours Parade

Sunday’s events kicked off with the 2024 Parade: Show Your Colours, a vibrant and colorful display of community pride. Following the parade was Pride Day! at Lanspeary Park, a free admission event featuring performances by Detroit's Drag Royalty Sabin, Windsor’s Comedy Queen Mel Lucier, musical acts like Alisabeth Von Presley, Nikki Holland & the Dirty Elizabeths, Carly Thomas, Saints Down, and drag performances by Subrina Kink, Aurora Bore Alice, Daisy, Dawn Key, and Mina Gorgina.

Windsor-Essex Pride Fest 2024 was a testament to the power of community, bringing together people from all walks of life to celebrate love, diversity, and self-expression. From the United Dance Party to the Show Your Colours Parade, every event was filled with joy, laughter, and unforgettable performances, making this year’s festival one for the books.

For exclusive interviews with Trinity The Tuck Taylor, and Aimee Yonce Shennel visit the links below.

Photos and review by Kevin Blondin

Dragtastic Blowout Unleashes Glamour and Laughter at Five15!

In a dazzling extravaganza on Sunday, December 10th, 2023, the illustrious Five15 in Royal Oak, Michigan, hosted the Dragtastic Blowout, featuring the sensational Miss Vanjie alongside special guests Sabin, Iowna, Victoria, Lex, and Emma. The night unfolded as a testament to unparalleled glamour and entertainment, leaving the audience in awe.

Headlining the event was the one and only Vanessa Mateo Vanjie, renowned from her unforgettable appearances on the 10th and 11th seasons of RuPaul's Drag Race. Vanjie graced the stage with stunning looks, a hilariously loud personality, and an ass that could only be described as fantASStic! The audience was treated to a show-stopping performance, with Vanjie captivating hearts while dancing to the fierce beats of a Beyoncé anthem.

The festivities continued beyond the spotlight, as Vanjie showcased her friendly and personable side during the meet and greet. Fans had the opportunity to connect with the queen herself, receiving autographs that will undoubtedly become prized possessions.

However, the night did experience a minor hiccup as the 2 pm show commenced fashionably late, around 2:30 pm, causing a delay in the eagerly anticipated meet and greets. Yet, the crowd's excitement remained undiminished, eagerly awaiting the stellar lineup that awaited them.

Special guest Sabin brought an electrifying energy to the stage, contributing to the overall spectacle of Dragtastic Blowout. Each performer, including Iowna, Victoria, Lex, and Emma, added their unique flair to the evening, creating an unforgettable experience for drag enthusiasts and newcomers alike.

Our very own THIS is DRAG US correspondent, David Benvenuto, was on the scene to witness and capture every captivating moment. Dragtastic Blowout at Five15 undoubtedly proved itself as a must-see event, leaving the audience buzzing with anticipation for the next extraordinary drag spectacle.

Stay tuned for more exclusive event coverage and drag insights from THIS is DRAG!

By Kevin Blondin
With photos and videos by David Benvenuto