Gay Skate Portland 2026
- January 20, 2025
- Portland, OR
Gay Skate Portland 2025 invites skaters of every age and identity to lace up and spin under the disco lights in the Oaks Park Roller Rink. This long‑running lgbtq+Q+ community tradition dates back to the early 1990s and has grown into one of Portland’s most beloved recurring social events. The 2025 season kicks off on Monday, January 20th at 7:00 PM and continues on the first and third Monday evenings of each month throughout the year, providing a reliable and welcoming space for the queer community and its allies. Each session runs from 7:00 PM to 9:30 PM and the admission price of $13 includes your standard skate rental.
Gay Skate is an all‑ages event designed to celebrate queer culture in a safe environment. While the Oaks Park Roller Rink is known for its classic maple floors and vintage charm, organizers transform it into an inclusive dance floor for each session. Resident DJs spin an eclectic soundtrack of disco classics, pop anthems and contemporary dance music, and special guest hosts like drag performer Bolivia Carmichaels keep the energy high with playful commentary and impromptu performances. The music and lighting change with the seasons; Pride Month sessions feature rainbow spotlights and themed playlists, while the annual “Pride Rides Edition” collaborates with Oaks Park’s amusement rides to deliver a festive hybrid carnival and skate night. Some sessions also benefit local non‑profits, giving attendees an opportunity to support lgbtq+Q+ causes while having fun.
The rink’s atmosphere is intentionally inclusive. Families bring young children to learn to skate alongside teenagers discovering a supportive peer group and seasoned adults reliving the joy of skating to disco. Volunteers from Quest Center for Integrative Health and other community organizations often host information tables, offering resources on health, wellness and social services. All gender restrooms and accessible seating ensure that people of all gender identities, sexual orientations and physical abilities feel respected and comfortable. Oaks Park staff are trained to assist guests with mobility or sensory needs, and there is seating around the rink for people who prefer to watch. A small arcade with classic games and refreshments adds to the community feel, giving attendees a place to relax between songs.
Admission policies are straightforward: anyone attending Gay Skate must sign an online waiver before skating. Skaters can rent inline skates or four‑wheel “quads,” or they can bring their own skates; specialty skate rentals are available for an additional fee. To protect the historic rink floor and keep the session safe, Oaks Park requires skaters to wear socks and to follow directional signs and posted safety policies. Attendees are asked to refrain from rough play, and security staff are present to handle any issues. The rink is accessible via bicycle and public transportation, and there is free parking on site, but sessions often sell out during Pride Month and other popular nights. Organizers recommend reserving tickets through the official Oaks Park ticketing portal well in advance to avoid disappointment.
A typical Gay Skate night begins with check‑in and skate rental at the entrance to the roller rink. Once inside, participants can warm up to house music before the DJs launch into a carefully curated playlist that spans decades of queer culture, from 1970s disco to current pop hits. Midway through the evening, a drag host or community leader might take the microphone to announce upcoming lgbtq+Q+ events or to lead a group skate in honour of a local cause. Experienced skaters often offer tips to newcomers, and the crowd regularly breaks into spontaneous dance lines and conga trains. The final half‑hour is reserved for requests and slow songs, creating space for couples and friends to share quieter moments on the rink.
The January 20th session in 2025 is more than just the first event of the year; it sets the tone for a season of inclusive fun. By holding the event on the first and third Mondays, organizers intentionally avoid conflicting with weekend nightlife and create a consistent, predictable schedule that encourages regular attendance. For visitors planning a trip to Portland, Gay Skate offers a slice of authentic local culture. It is a prime opportunity to meet residents, enjoy nostalgic music, and experience a unique twist on roller skating that highlights the resilience and creativity of the city’s lgbtq+Q+ community.
Although Gay Skate has its roots in queer liberation, it welcomes everyone who supports equality and diversity. Allies are encouraged to attend, and many families of all configurations make it a monthly outing. Over the decades, the event has grown not just as a party but as a fundraising platform; proceeds from certain nights support organizations like Quest Center, Cascade AIDS Project, the Q Center and other local charities. In 2025, organizers hope to expand their charitable partnerships and continue integrating educational programming, such as health fairs and information booths. The inclusive environment also fosters social connections; many long‑term friendships and even relationships have begun beneath the rink’s glittering disco ball.
For up‑to‑date session dates, ticket information, and guest DJ announcements, visit the official Oaks Park Gay Skate event page. Whether you are strapping on skates for the first time or returning as a seasoned pro, Gay Skate Portland 2025 promises a joyful evening of music, movement and community. Bring your friends, wear comfortable clothing, arrive early to snag a locker, and get ready to glide to the rhythm of Portland’s ever‑diverse queer scene.
Gay Skate is an all‑ages event designed to celebrate queer culture in a safe environment. While the Oaks Park Roller Rink is known for its classic maple floors and vintage charm, organizers transform it into an inclusive dance floor for each session. Resident DJs spin an eclectic soundtrack of disco classics, pop anthems and contemporary dance music, and special guest hosts like drag performer Bolivia Carmichaels keep the energy high with playful commentary and impromptu performances. The music and lighting change with the seasons; Pride Month sessions feature rainbow spotlights and themed playlists, while the annual “Pride Rides Edition” collaborates with Oaks Park’s amusement rides to deliver a festive hybrid carnival and skate night. Some sessions also benefit local non‑profits, giving attendees an opportunity to support lgbtq+Q+ causes while having fun.
The rink’s atmosphere is intentionally inclusive. Families bring young children to learn to skate alongside teenagers discovering a supportive peer group and seasoned adults reliving the joy of skating to disco. Volunteers from Quest Center for Integrative Health and other community organizations often host information tables, offering resources on health, wellness and social services. All gender restrooms and accessible seating ensure that people of all gender identities, sexual orientations and physical abilities feel respected and comfortable. Oaks Park staff are trained to assist guests with mobility or sensory needs, and there is seating around the rink for people who prefer to watch. A small arcade with classic games and refreshments adds to the community feel, giving attendees a place to relax between songs.
Admission policies are straightforward: anyone attending Gay Skate must sign an online waiver before skating. Skaters can rent inline skates or four‑wheel “quads,” or they can bring their own skates; specialty skate rentals are available for an additional fee. To protect the historic rink floor and keep the session safe, Oaks Park requires skaters to wear socks and to follow directional signs and posted safety policies. Attendees are asked to refrain from rough play, and security staff are present to handle any issues. The rink is accessible via bicycle and public transportation, and there is free parking on site, but sessions often sell out during Pride Month and other popular nights. Organizers recommend reserving tickets through the official Oaks Park ticketing portal well in advance to avoid disappointment.
A typical Gay Skate night begins with check‑in and skate rental at the entrance to the roller rink. Once inside, participants can warm up to house music before the DJs launch into a carefully curated playlist that spans decades of queer culture, from 1970s disco to current pop hits. Midway through the evening, a drag host or community leader might take the microphone to announce upcoming lgbtq+Q+ events or to lead a group skate in honour of a local cause. Experienced skaters often offer tips to newcomers, and the crowd regularly breaks into spontaneous dance lines and conga trains. The final half‑hour is reserved for requests and slow songs, creating space for couples and friends to share quieter moments on the rink.
The January 20th session in 2025 is more than just the first event of the year; it sets the tone for a season of inclusive fun. By holding the event on the first and third Mondays, organizers intentionally avoid conflicting with weekend nightlife and create a consistent, predictable schedule that encourages regular attendance. For visitors planning a trip to Portland, Gay Skate offers a slice of authentic local culture. It is a prime opportunity to meet residents, enjoy nostalgic music, and experience a unique twist on roller skating that highlights the resilience and creativity of the city’s lgbtq+Q+ community.
Although Gay Skate has its roots in queer liberation, it welcomes everyone who supports equality and diversity. Allies are encouraged to attend, and many families of all configurations make it a monthly outing. Over the decades, the event has grown not just as a party but as a fundraising platform; proceeds from certain nights support organizations like Quest Center, Cascade AIDS Project, the Q Center and other local charities. In 2025, organizers hope to expand their charitable partnerships and continue integrating educational programming, such as health fairs and information booths. The inclusive environment also fosters social connections; many long‑term friendships and even relationships have begun beneath the rink’s glittering disco ball.
For up‑to‑date session dates, ticket information, and guest DJ announcements, visit the official Oaks Park Gay Skate event page. Whether you are strapping on skates for the first time or returning as a seasoned pro, Gay Skate Portland 2025 promises a joyful evening of music, movement and community. Bring your friends, wear comfortable clothing, arrive early to snag a locker, and get ready to glide to the rhythm of Portland’s ever‑diverse queer scene.