The Charlotte Pride Drag Pageant is a vibrant and inclusive event held annually as part of the Charlotte Pride Festival. Scheduled for August 17, 2024, it celebrates drag performers from various gender identities, competing for the titles of Mr., Ms. and Mx. Charlotte Pride. Contestants are evaluated on interviews, talent showcases, and creative interpretations of Pride, reflecting the diversity and talent found in the drag community.
The pageant started in 2005 and has become an integral part of the annual Pride festival.
“It’s one of the biggest draws to Pride,” said Liz Schob of Charlotte Pride. “Because there are a lot of prides that either don’t have drug pageants, or they don’t have them as front and center within their festival like we do.”
Contestants must meet the following criteria in order to participate in the 2024 Charlotte Pride Pageant:
- They must be at least 18 years of age.
- They must reside within a 100-mile radius of Charlotte.
- They can’t be a current or former Charlotte Pride titleholder in any division.
This event serves as a platform for LGBTQ+ visibility and empowerment, aligning with the broader mission of Charlotte Pride to foster an inclusive and supportive environment. By participating, winners not only earn prestigious titles but also take on the responsibility of promoting and supporting Charlotte Pride’s initiatives throughout the year. The pageant is free for both participants and attendees, making it an accessible celebration of drag culture and community spirit.
“Drag is under attack — our whole community is under attack,” Schob said. “I think it makes a pretty big statement, having drag at the forefront of our festival so visible in terms saying we are not ashamed of our community — we’re proud of them.”
The Charlotte Pride website reads:
“Our pageant winners are more than title holders … They envision a world in which all LGBTQIA+ people are affirmed, respected, and included — free from any discrimination, rejection, or prejudice. They commit their volunteer work, time, and energy to the Charlotte Pride mission to enrich, empower, strengthen, and make more visible the lives and experiences of LGBTQ people in Charlotte and the Carolinas.”
The Charlotte Pride Drag Pageant is more than just competition; it is a celebration of identity, creativity, and community. It provides a space for performers to showcase their talents and for the community to come together in support and celebration of LGBTQ+ pride. The event highlights the importance of visibility and representation, offering a stage where diverse voices and talents can shine.
“Come with an open mind and ready for a really fun show,” Schob said. “Come ready to witness performers who give their heart and soul to what they do and lay it all out on the stage for the audience.”
For more information, visit the Charlotte Pride Drag Pageant page.
