There are two things you’re sure to find in abundance during ABQ Pride: queer people and dancing. And lots of queer people dancing. And lots of not-queer people dancing because the queer people are having so much fun dancing everyone has to join in. It’s a fabulous cycle.For your partying pleasure, here’s a quick round-up of the events happening off the fairgrounds this Pride weekend.
¡Fiesta!
CeCe Peniston
Evolution Nightclub
2500 Yale SE • 615-8960www.evolutionabq.comWhile the latest addition to Albuquerque’s GLBT club scene isn’t technically operational yet, Evolution couldn’t resist opening its doors wide open for a big Pride bash. Be one of the first to see the new disco on Saturday night at 7 p.m. with the added bonus of DJ Eddie X, DJ George Jackson and house DJs, a special performance by local garage/house artist RaShaan Houston and dance music legend CeCe Peniston (renowned for 1991’s international club hit "Finally"). Tickets are available at the door—$20 for 21-and-over and $15 for ages 18 to 20. On Sunday, lounge poolside with a circuit-style Tea Dance/Pool Party starting at noon at the Wyndham Hotel with DJs DeLorenzo, Eldon and Justin Case. Tickets are $10 day of the event, or free with the special hotel packages (visit the Evolution Nightclub website for details).Áfiesta!
Exhale Bar and Grill
6132 Fourth Street NW • 342-0049www.exhaleabq.comAlbuquerque’s only lesbian bar starts the party on Friday with a night of cover-free dancing featuring DJ Madie. After a sun-soaked day at the fairgrounds on Saturday, grab your girlfriends for a barbecue on Exhale’s patio starting at 4 p.m. and dance all night with the musical assistance of DJ Mike. The $15 cover includes food. If you’ve still got some party left in you on Sunday, head back for Us Featuring You at 5 p.m. followed by karaoke by Boop at 7:30 p.m.Áfiesta!
Lady Bunny
Pulse/Blu
4100 Central SE • 255-3334www.pulseandblu.comBe ready to laugh your cottontail off when Lady Bunny takes the stage on Friday night. This drag queen isn’t just a fabulous dresser, she’s a comedienne, singer, songwriter, actress, DJ and the founder of Wigstock. And she’s dirty—definitely dirty. On Saturday, keep the party rolling by taking the courtesy shuttle from Pulse to Pride and back as much as you’d like for cocktails and dance music. Stay into the evening for the real Sandy B, a chart-topping (and Grammy nominated) dance/house diva with rich, gospel-inspired vocals. Guaranteed to put some groove into your weekend! Tickets for each night are $12, or $20 for both Pride-filled events.Áfiesta!
Kimberly Locke
