Fire Island, which is located in the state of New York in the US, has long been considered an ideal LGBTQ+ vacation spot, but far fewer people have heard of Galveston Island in Texas, on the beautiful Gulf Coast.
Fire Island is known for its thriving gay party scene; Joel Kim Booster played on that reputation when he set his 2022 queer rom-com there, but Galveston also has a lot to offer LGBTQ+ travellers looking for fun in the sun.
In recent years, Galveston, with its 32 miles of beaches and scores of attractions, has gained a reputation for being a great short-term vacation spot for gay visitors, partly thanks to the yearly three-day-long Pride celebration, as well as multiple action-packed queer bars and clubs that are open all year round.
Robert’s Lafitte, for example, is the oldest LGBTQ+ bar in the entire state of Texas, as well as Galveston’s original drag show bar, hosting drag shows every Friday, Saturday and Sunday night from 10.30pm.
If you’re looking for somewhere with a glorious view, then look no further than Rumors Beach Bar. They have a beautiful outdoor patio overlooking the sea, and also put on regular drag nights and fabulous queer parties.
A huge amount of fun can also be had at 23rd Street Station Piano Bar, which often hosts performances by the Galveston Gay Chorus, plus live piano every night. Owner Dan says: “23rd Street Station is proud to be Galveston’s premier neighborhood gay bar. We’re all about good drinks, good people, and good times, and we hope everyone who walks through our doors feels comfortable and at home with us.”
If you’re after an LGBTQ+ friendly eatery, check out Island Time Beach Bar & Grill, who advertise themselves as being an inclusive place for “all,” and fly a rainbow Pride flag outside all year round to show their support for the community.
Pride Beach Bash & Block Party
Unsurprisingly, given its reputation as a queer vacation destination, Galveston goes to town when it comes to celebrating Pride, which is a three-day event on the island. East Beach, at the island’s eastern tip, is the site of the annual Galveston Pride Beach Bash & Block Party, which this year will be held on Saturday, August 30.
After that, on Sunday 31, there’s going to be a wild pool party at Roberts Lafitte, which promises: “We will have several mini drag shows, male exotic dancers, a live DJ by the pool, and several vendors.”
Galveston Pride was founded by Terry and Jamie Fuller-Waymire, who moved to Galveston in 2013. Last year they told OutSmart Magazine: “We always wanted to create an event where everyone felt proud to be themselves.” This year’s Pride weekend kicks off on August 29 with a free drag extravaganza performance.
In conclusion: Fire Island who?? We don’t even know her.
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