On Sunday 31 August, Auckland’s Karangahape Road was awash with sequins, beats, and emotion as Family Bar marked its 20th anniversary in spectacular fashion. The iconic venue, renowned as Aotearoa’s longest-running LGBTQ+ bar, welcomed hundreds of partygoers through its doors for a night filled with nostalgia, love, and pride.
From the moment the music started, the dance floor became a vibrant homage to two decades of queer history. It wasn’t just a party—it was a celebration of identity, resilience, and the joyful chaos that Family has always embodied. Drag royalty, long-time regulars, local celebs, and stuff (current and former) mingled like old friends, each person adding a new beat to the venue’s enduring rhythm.
The performances throughout the night were unforgettable. Drag artists stunned with jaw-dropping looks and fierce routines, while DJs kept the vibe electric into the early hours. The air buzzed with energy—exuberant yet intimate—creating an atmosphere that felt like a heartfelt tribute to a space that has sheltered and uplifted generations.
YOUR EX Photographer Tux Hika captured every glitter-drenched moment (and yes, the photo gallery below is a must-see), documenting a celebration steeped in legacy. For many, Family is more than a nightclub—it’s a cornerstone of New Zealand’s queer history. It’s where people first danced freely with someone they loved, where chosen families formed, where drag legends launched their careers, and where countless memories were made.
Despite the changing cultural landscape and challenges along the way, Family has endured—and flourished. Its 20th birthday wasn’t just a milestone, but a testament to the strength and spirit of the LGBTQ+ community it represents.
So here’s to Family: twenty years of music, love, glitter, and chosen family—and a future just as bright.
