Winter Pride turns 21 this month! Chase away the winter blues with ten days of celebrations in Queenstown from Thursday, 22 August, to Sunday, 1 September. Here are YOUR ex’s picks of the festival’s must-attend events:
Pride Dinner 2024 | Friday 23rd August
Kick off the festivities with a stylish dinner at Yonder, Queenstown’s best cafe. Guests can enjoy delectable grazing platters in a warm, inviting atmosphere, perfect for reconnecting with old friends and making new ones. With limited seating, it’s best to book early!
Festival DJs Cardrona 2024 | Saturday 24 August
Head to Cardrona Alpine Resort for a day of music and merriment, with the Winter Pride DJ spinning lively tunes from noon till 3 PM. Whether you’re hitting the slopes or soaking in the vibrant atmosphere, this event is a fantastic way to celebrate pride amidst the snow.
Opening Party – The Lavender Lounge | Saturday 24 August
The Lavender Lounge at Queenstown Memorial Centre kickstarts the festival with a queer cabaret and circus extravaganza. Featuring dance, aerial performances, drag, and burlesque, this event is a tribute to queer love and club culture. The night promises a euphoric experience with a live DJ and an after-show dance party.
The Western Party at Cowboy’s | Tuesday 27 August
Dust off your cowboy boots for a night of Western-themed fun. Dress code is Western realness. Think hats, holsters, chaps, spurs, and, of course, swagger! Be ready to dance into the early hours to a line-up of local and international DJs.
Dinner & Drag with KITA MEAN | Thursday 29 August
Join RuPaul’s Drag Race winner, Kita Mean, and her fellow queens at The Assembly Queenstown for an evening of drag, comedy, lip-syncs, and fine dining. This cabaret-style show includes a three-course meal and promises an evening full of outrageous laughs.
Ayrburn Long Lunch 2024 | Friday 30 August
Enjoy a luxurious long lunch featuring a banquet, wine tasting, and live DJ at the picturesque Woolshed at Ayrburn. Hosted by iconic drag queens, this event offers a day of celebration and unity. Complimentary transport from Queenstown is provided.
SKYN Presents SHE-SKYN (Ladies Night) | Friday 30 August
This ladies-only night is a celebration at Lonestar Cafe & Bar for female and gender-minority guests, featuring DJs and a fun, flirty, and inclusive atmosphere. It’s a highlight for women and non-binary individuals who enjoy a lively party scene.
SKYN Presents HE-SKYN (Men’s Night) | Friday 30 August
A men’s-only underwear party at The Assembly Queenstown invites MSM, trans men, and non-binary individuals for an evening of scantily-clad dancing. The event includes DJs and erotic dancers, providing a relaxed, sexy experience that you won’t find in Queenstown outside of Pride!
The Bikini Pride Run at Cardrona Ski Field | Saturday 31st August
Participants can don their best swimwear for a fun and cheeky run down the slopes. The event includes a lunchtime DJ set and a vibrant, cheeky atmosphere.
THE KITA & ANITA SHOW! | Saturday 31 August
Enjoy a night of comedy and drag at SkyCity Queenstown Casino with Kita Mean and Anita Wigl’it. This show features dazzling performances and interactive audience games from everyone’s favourite drag duo!
Winter Pride Finale Party 2024 | Saturday 31 August
Celebrate the grand finale of Winter Pride’s 21st birthday with the biggest and most spectacular party yet. The event features incredible stage shows, drag performances, and DJ sets hosted by the drag queen with the incredible voice, Nova Starr. The line-up includes performances by Ardon England and Oblivion Westwood, with DJ sets from Australian DJ Flatline and American DJ Ty Jordan. Venue TBC.
Don’t miss this vibrant festival celebrating love, diversity, and LGBTQ+ pride. Secure your tickets at winterpride.co.nz and join the Winter Pride whānau for an unforgettable experience! And don’t forget that this year, you can ‘Spread the Rainbow’ as Winter Pride introduces the ‘Spread the Rainbow’ ticket option, allowing attendees to sponsor others’ festival experiences, spreading joy and inclusivity throughout the event.
