World Bear Weekend 2026
- October 30 – November 2, 2025
- Lexington, KY
World Bear Weekend 2025 is moving to Lexington, Kentucky from October 30 to November 2, 2025, marking the seventh year of this inclusive celebration of bear culture. Instead of the Orlando edition that last took place in 2024, the organizers are embracing the spirit of Halloween and Día de los Muertos by hosting a four‑day event in the heart of Kentucky. People from around the world are making plans to reunite with friends and chosen family at the Embassy Suites by Hilton on Newtown Pike, where the convention becomes a small city of its own. The atmosphere has always been friendly and laid‑back; you can wear a costume one night, float in the pool the next afternoon and never feel judged for being yourself.
This year’s programme is carefully layered with fun, community and moments of rest. On Thursday the welcome pool party sets a playful tone, followed by social mixers where newcomers can meet seasoned attendees without the pressure of formal introductions. Friday evening features a Halloween Costume Dance with prizes for the most creative outfits, while Saturday’s Day of the Dead–themed dance invites everyone to honour loved ones who are gone by bringing small tributes or wearing colourful sugar‑skull makeup. Between the big dances there are daytime workshops on everything from queer history to mental health, vendor markets selling clothing and art, and casual games around the host hotel. Educational sessions are kept approachable; you might find yourself at a discussion on consent one moment and laughing during a craft class the next.
A highlight for many is the entertainment lineup. Comedian Brad Loekle returns to host a Friday night comedy show. His irreverent humour—gleaned from years as a commentator on television and as a radio personality—keeps the audience roaring while still leaving room for poignant observations about life in the lgbtq+Q+ community. On another evening, the charismatic drag performer Divinity Holeburn presides over “Divine Intervention,” a game show inspired by Family Feud where audience members compete for silly prizes and enjoy tongue‑in‑cheek commentary. Throughout the weekend, local DJs, gogo dancers and surprise guest artists pop in to keep the energy high.
The event would not be complete without the World Bear Weekend Contest. Dozens of contestants representing categories such as Bear, Cub, Daddy, Chaser and Admirer participate in a multi‑night competition that emphasises personality and community involvement as much as looks. Preliminary rounds are scattered through the weekend; some are playful, like the “bear gams” runway, while others ask contestants to speak about what the bear community means to them. Finals take place on Saturday night and often draw standing‑room‑only crowds. Even if you’re not competing, you can feel the camaraderie and support when the crowd cheers for contestants who have become friends over the years.
Tickets are organised into tiers to accommodate different budgets. Bronze day passes offer single‑day access to most events at a low cost, while the Silver weekend pass covers all four days and includes extras such as priority entry. Those who want an elevated experience often opt for the Gold VIP weekend pass, which adds exclusive meet‑and‑greets and reserved seating at shows. Prices rise as the event approaches, so many regulars purchase early to lock in the lowest rates. Beyond the basic passes there are à‑la‑carte add‑ons like the Cigar Social, bourbon tastings, a pumpkin carving contest and a Sunday drag brunch. These extras allow you to tailor your weekend and often sell out quickly.
The Embassy Suites at Coldstream serves as the host hotel and central hub. Each reservation is a two‑room suite, and there’s a three‑night minimum stay. The organisers have negotiated a group rate, but demand is high, and a non‑refundable deposit is required when booking; the remainder is due forty‑five days before arrival. Staying on‑site means you’re only steps away from your room if you need a midday nap or want to change outfits between events. It also makes spontaneous hangs in the lobby or at the breakfast buffet more likely; many friendships start in these casual moments.
Lexington itself is an underrated host city. If you arrive early or extend your stay, you can explore bourbon distilleries, visit horse farms or take a stroll through the historic downtown. The organisers often schedule optional excursions such as haunted tours or trips to local restaurants, giving visitors a taste of Kentucky culture. Even small details—like the welcome bags filled with local snacks and informational brochures—reflect the care that goes into planning the weekend.
By moving the gathering to Kentucky and leaning into Halloween and Día de los Muertos themes, World Bear Weekend 2025 promises a refreshed experience without losing the warmth and inclusivity that long‑time attendees cherish. Whether you’re a veteran of bear events or considering your first, the combination of comedy, drag, contests, pool parties and community makes it easy to feel at home. Just remember to pack your costume, an open mind and maybe a bit of courage to strike up a conversation with a stranger; chances are good you’ll leave Lexington with new friends and plenty of stories to tell.
Official Website: https://worldbearweekend.com/