Q-Seattle Events: Tacky Tourist Clubs

Local blogger "Ted" has a great video from Saturday's Blue Ball "Drag Bus" fundraiser. And it really does look like a fun time was had by all, proving that both boats and buses can successfully raise funds on the same day.

After seeing their splashy float in the downtown pride parade, we looked for a link to post something last month about the event, but didn't find it in time. We're delighted to now (even though we're way late) to find the link to event sponsor rosmariesbaby.com and to learn the history of the Drag Bus party and other parties sponsored by Philip:

John Gardner, of Aria Floral, started "Birthdays Are A Drag" years ago in New Orleans.

In order to ride the Birthday Bus, party goers were required to wear drag. The bus would take the participants on a bar tour of the city, terrorizing unsuspecting folks along the way.

In 1998, John moved to Seattle. Along with him came the party. There were 18 participants that first year. Each year thereafter, the party grew immensely - constantly changing the surprise locations, until the last party in 2005 tallied over 100 people. "Birthdays Are A Drag" was named the "Most Coveted Party Invitation" by OUT magazine in 2001. A documentary crew followed the 2002 event.

John passed on the torch to Philip Heier in 2006. The "Drag Bus" was then re-created into a charity event where drag is not required (though encouraged), the color theme mandatory, and the locations of the tour are no longer a secret.

Labels: drag show, fundraisers, gay party, Gay Seattle