TRUE Fest in Amherstburg
Unleashes a Blizzard of Drag Delights
Amherstburg, ON — On the chilly night of January 27, the streets of Amherstburg heated up with the fierce and fabulous TRUE Fest. This winter street party, sponsored by Windsor-Essex Pride Fest, Caesars Windsor, Rotary Club of Amherstburg, and The House Youth Centre, and hosted by AM800’s Dan MacDonald, brought a blizzard of drag delights to this small Southwestern Ontario town.
Outdoor Extravaganza: The festival featured two outdoor stages, each a block apart, creating a drag duet of dueling queens. Edie Violet from Woodstock and Phoenix Black from London kicked off the spectacle at 6:30 pm, and 7:30 pm, followed by Dulce from London and Koko Starr from Windsor at 8:30 pm and 9:30 pm.
Fire, Ice, and Everything Nice: Between sets, attendees could switch things up at the other stage and witness mesmerizing fire and glow performances by Hoop You. To keep the winter chill at bay, hot chocolate and apple cider were on the menu, courtesy of the Rotary Club of Amherstburg. A street lined with patio heaters, cornhole, s'mores stations, hotdogs, and a hot bar on Dalhousie Street added to the festive atmosphere. Lot 10 kept spirits warm with craft beer and s'mores kits, while an Igloo by the Embrace Group at The House Youth Centre offered games and prizes, including coveted tickets to see Canada's Drag Race at Caesars Windsor on April 4.
Community Vibes and Royal Memories:
The event drew a diverse crowd of families, kids, and drag enthusiasts of all ages. The sense of community was palpable as the night progressed, bringing warmth to the frozen streets.
Royal Performances:
Edie Violet and Phoenix Black dazzled with stunning looks and shared memories from their TV appearances. Koko Starr's high-energy performances left the crowd in awe, and Dulce lit up the night with her playful attitude. An impromptu extra song from Dulce added an unexpected treat that left the audience wanting more.
After-Party Bliss:
The festivities continued at Burger 67 with an after-party featuring a DJ and an open kitchen for apps until midnight. Downtown Amherstburg was alive and buzzing, defying the January cold with a celebration that resonated throughout the town.
Stay tuned for more drag delights in the next edition of DRAG MAG!
Photos and Review by Kevin Blondin