Bisbee has established a solid reputation as a place where one can spend time in some notable ways. Whether you fancy racing up 1,000 stairs, zipping downhill in a coaster car or taking in some outdoor blues, Bisbee bills itself as a place where anyone is invited to βbe yourself, in all your glory.β
At no time is that more true than during the annual Bisbee Pride Festival, a three-day romp that includes concerts, comedy, costumes and dancing in the streets. Events kick off with deals and music on Friday, June 17, and really heat up with a no-cover lingerie pub crawl beginning at 6 p.m.
Tucsonβs own kings of cabaret, the Manly Manlesque show, hit the stage at the Quarry, 40 Brewery Ave., at 9 p.m. in a flurry of sweaty, manly exhibitionism. The $5 price tag is a break from the usual $10 tickets at their home venue, the Surly Wench Pub, 424 N. Fourth Ave. The cabaret continues at the Bisbee Grand Saloon, 61 Main St., where you can catch a preview of some of the headliners who will be at Saturdayβs βLaugh Out Loudβ main event.
The main event begins at 8 p.m. Saturday, June 18, at Old City Park, 62 Brewery Ave. Performers include comedian Sandra Valls, humorous singer and self-described βfemale drag queenβ Wendy Ho, and Phoenix personality Pandora DeStrange, hosted by Manhattan-based drag performer Sherry Vine.
The parade starts at 7 p.m. but those who want to participate must gather at 6:30 at the Cochise County Courthouse and register in advance online. Find the schedule, parade registration and more at bisbeepride.com .
