Tips to Host the Best Queer Party
Although summer has passed and fall is slowly creeping in, friends can still meet to share good energy, great food, and, of course, celebrate every shade of the rainbow. An inclusive gathering can help foster stronger connections among LGBTQ+ folks and allies, and a party filled with pride and creativity is always worth the effort.
Picking a Creative Theme
Think outside the box. Why not host a Pride flag party where all the guests choose outfits inspired by the flag that best represents them? To make it extra fun, you could set up a mini runway for people to show off their looks, add themed cocktails or mocktails that match each flag’s colours, and decorate the space with banners, balloons, and lights in diverse Pride palettes.
Games are also important. It’s best to consider adding fun online activities for entertainment. You can play house games like Trivia or beerpong, but also explore online casino in Ontario for free spins if you want a casual online competition among the group.
Group Activities
Everyone can be a part of the party with a few low-pressure games, like LGBTQ+ trivia. But what about creating something bigger? For example, organising a drag show or costume contest and inviting everyone to participate, not just watch. A well-chosen playlist with anthems from queer icons will get the whole party dancing and singing along.
Support Local Queer Artists
Bring local queer flavour to your party by featuring Quebec’s huge range of talents. Larger events can accommodate legendary drag performers like Mado Lamotte, a cornerstone of Montreal’s drag scene, or Rita Baga, a celebrated drag queen known for her performances and activism. You might also include Mona de Grenoble, known for her camp style and comedy shows, or Gisèle Lullaby, the first Montreal queen to win Canada’s Drag Race.
Booking a queer DJ from the local scene, like DJ Sam and DJ Del Pilar, well-known in Montreal’s LGBTQ+ nightlife, adds flavour to your party. Other influential names are Yaya, Tati Au Miel, and Glowzi, who have carved out unique spaces with their eclectic mixes spanning Afrobeat, techno, and experimental sounds. For a more intimate vibe, hosting a cozy film marathon showcasing LGBTQ+ stories is perfect, whether indoors or under the stars.
Food, Drinks, and Rainbow Decorations
Keep your event fresh and fun with a colourful taco bar featuring a variety of toppings and salsas, paired with refreshing infused waters like cucumber-mint or citrus-berry blends. Sparkling mocktails are always a must. With rainbow napkins and colourful candles, the atmosphere will be perfect. For sweet treats, consider rainbow macarons or a layered jelly dessert in Pride colours.
Creating a DIY glitter face-paint station for guests is also a great choice to add a bit of sparkle to everyone’s look. Set up a photo area with props for instant memories; pride flags, oversized sunglasses, and hats are great starters.
It doesn’t matter if the gathering is large or small, or what decorations you choose for your party. Above all, the goal is to celebrate queerness, leaving guests with lasting memories and stronger bonds after being a part of an event where everyone is included and celebrated.
Please play responsibly. The 2SLGBTQiA+ community is known to be at higher risk for gambling-related harm due to a range of social and economic factors. If you or someone you know is struggling with gambling, there are support services available in British Columbia. Contact the BC Gambling Support Line at 1-888-795-6111, available 24/7, or visit www.bcresponsiblegambling.ca for confidential help, information, and free counselling.