Drag Kings and Drag Queens at The Winter is a Drag Ball
Drag Kings, Drag Queens, and more are celebrating LGBTQIA2S+ diversity and expression in Burlington, Vermont
In the heart of Vermont, amidst the snowy landscapes and cozy communities, there shines a vibrant celebration of lgbtqia2s+ diversity and self-expression known as the Winter is a Drag Ball. Drag Kings and Drag Queens brave the cold weather and gather annually for this incredible event. Held annually in Burlington, this event has become a beloved tradition, drawing participants and spectators from all walks of life, and from around the country and Canada, to revel in the joyous spirit of lgbtqia2s+ and drag culture.
The Winter is a Drag Ball, organized for 23 of its 29 years by the legendary House of LeMay, is a glittering extravaganza that transcends boundaries and embraces the spectrum of gender identities and expressions. With its roots dating back to the early 1990s, this event that was started by Chris Moes and Rev. Yolanda has evolved into a dazzling spectacle that not only entertains but also serves as a platform for advocacy and inclusivity.
Chris Moes and Rev. Yolanda
At the core of the Winter is a Drag Ball is the art of drag itself—a form of performance that challenges conventional notions of gender and beauty. Drag performers, known for their flamboyant costumes, extravagant makeup, and larger-than-life personas, take to the stage to showcase their talents and creativity. From lip-sync performances to musical productions to high-energy dance numbers, each act is a celebration of individuality and empowerment.
Drag queens of the House of LeMay and Rev. Yolanda performing at a drag ball.
One thing that sets the Winter is a Drag Ball apart from a standard nightclub event, is a commitment to fostering a welcoming and safe environment for all attendees. In a state known for its progressive values, the event serves as a beacon of acceptance and solidarity, where people of all backgrounds can come together to celebrate their differences and embrace their true selves. In fact, sometimes over 1000 people attend the event in one night at Higher Ground! Check out the videos above to see all the costumes and performances!
The Winter is a Drag Ball is more than just a spectacle for the LGBTQIA2S+ community—it's also a fundraiser for important causes. Over the years, the event has raised hundreds of thousands of dollars for organizations that support the LGBTQ+ community, such as Vermont Cares. Through the power of community and compassion, the Winter is a Drag Ball demonstrates the profound impact that art and activism can have on society.
Beyond its entertainment value, the Winter is a Drag Ball carries a deeper significance for many attendees. For some, it's a chance to escape the confines of everyday life and step into a world of fantasy and glamour with drag kings and drag queens. For others, it's a form of self-expression and empowerment, a way to assert their identities and defy societal norms. And for all who attend, it's a reminder that love and acceptance are the ultimate forces of change.
As the lights dim and the music swells, the Winter is a Drag Ball comes to life in a dazzling display of color and creativity. In Burlington, Vermont, amid the chill of winter, there burns a flame of passion and pride that warms the hearts of all who experience it. And as the music fades at the end of the night, one thing is clear: the spirit of the Winter is a Drag Ball will continue to shine brightly, lighting the way towards a more inclusive and compassionate world. And next year will bring new, different, and exciting changes. The House of LeMay is passing the torch and will no longer host this incredible event. Drag King Mike Oxready is taking over, bringing new energy and ideas to The 30th Winter is a Drag Ball! We can’t wait.
Drag King Mike Oxready will host the 30th Winter is a Drag Ball in 2025
—This article was written, restructured, or adapted by Russell with information gathered from sources around the internet. Russell is the producer of Amber Live and is greatly overworked to pull it all together. If it’s on the internet, it must be true. (We’re kidding.) BUT, if you find any errors or omissions in the article, please let us know so that we may correct the issue. Thanks for your support!
