This content was created by Xtra's branded content team alongside Mosmann Australia, separate from Xtra's editorial staff.
Summer ushers in so many queer festivals, pool parties and socials that it’s hard to keep track. Picking which event to attend can be just as stressful as deciding which bathing suit to wear. And while we can’t help you rummage through your closet, we’ve rounded up some of summer 2017’s best queer celebrations across North America for you catch some rays and strut your stuff.
Temptation Sundays Pool Party
Luxor Resort, Las Vegas, NV, USA
Every Sunday 1–7pm
Slip into as little fabric as possible at the Luxor Resort for a full day of wet fun in (and then possibly even out of?) the resort’s oasis pool. The party already started on June 4, but every Sunday the gay pool party sees men and women sipping cocktails as rotating DJs remix summer tunes. There are also special guests each Sunday.
Pride Cabana Pool Party
Toronto, ON, CAN
June 21, 2017
Toronto’s Cabana Pool Bar turns into a luxurious soiree for one evening when the city’s Pride festival is in full swing. Private cabanas, fancy drinks, a breathtaking view of Toronto’s skyline, what’s not to love? This year’s guest DJ is LA-based Hector Fonseca spinning with Toronto’s own Ticky Ty, so you’ll have the best music to pair with cocktails and stellar views.
HER Long Beach Summer Daze
Long Beach, CA, USA
July 2, 2017
The lesbian dating app HER brings its first-ever Long Beach event this summer to BO-beau kitchen + roof tap for a Sunday-funday to remember. Kick back with a cocktail or two (or three), and mingle with singles, those who are taken and those who are just unsure. The social is oriented towards lesbian communities, but you’re more than welcome to bring a wingman or two of any sexual orientation.
Bear Week Provincetown
Provincetown, MA, USA
July 8–16, 2017
Provincetown does everything it can to welcome bears and cubs from all over North America. Working with local club managers, everyone can find some fun. While the bars and clubs are strictly for men over 21, younger guys have beaches, Spiritus Pizza, and Town Hall. Commercial Street and pool decks are where all can socialize and party.
Girl Splash
Provincetown, MA, USA
July 18–22, 2017
When most of the bears leave Provincetown, Girl Splash offers five days for lesbians (and gay men) to stroll through the seaside town to beach parties, bike trails, dance parties, a garden party and comedians at the height of summer. Home to one of the few lesbian beaches in the United States, Girl Splash will ensure fun and entertainment for everyone.
Multicolor Fest LGBTTI
Texcoco, MX, USA
Aug 5, 2017
No discrimination, all colour: that’s what the Multicolor Fest in Mexico is all about. With international and Mexican DJs throughout the day blasting music, bodies dance through a variety of coloured powders underneath the Mexican sun. The festival caps off Mexico’s Pride, so what better way is there to conclude the celebration than dancing in a rainbow of colour?
Out & Out’s Jamboree LGBT Summer Camp
Haliburton County, ON, CAN
Aug 21–27, 2017
If you’re looking for a more lowkey way to celebrate the sunshine, try Out & Out’s 19+ LGBT Summer Camp. Beach volleyball, kayaking, hiking, canoeing and four tennis courts are only a few of the activities at your disposal. Accommodations are not high-end, however, each cabin houses 10 to 12 adults. But you have Xtra’s scout’s honour that it’ll really be worth it in the end.
Lezathlon Summer Camp
Lake Hughes, CA, USA
Sept 1–3, 2017
One ticket into the Lezathlon camp includes all meals, housing, transport and access to every single party in between the sporting events. Events range from two-legged races, obstacle courses, wheelbarrow races, and tug of war. Housing is extremely accommodating, with cabins for singles, couples, teams and spectators. To register for Lezathlon, you’ll need a team with a minimum of eight members.
Mosmann Australia
mosmannaustralia.com.au