This October, the historic streets of Manayunk will once again come alive with vibrant energy and LGBTQ+ pride as the Out & About in MNYK Festival returns for its 2024 edition. Set for Saturday, October 5th, the event is a key celebration in honor of National Coming Out Day and promises a day filled with inclusivity, creativity, and joyous entertainment. From drag shows and artisan markets to family-friendly activities and iconic late-night entertainment, Out & About in MNYK is shaping up to be a landmark event for the Philadelphia LGBTQ+ community and allies.

A Day of Inclusivity and Entertainment

Manayunk’s Main Street will serve as the heart of the festival, where locals and visitors alike can explore a variety of unique experiences tailored for the LGBTQ+ community. From 11:00 a.m. to 4:00 p.m., festival-goers can enjoy an LGBTQ+ artisan market, which will showcase the work of over fifteen local artists offering handcrafted goods ranging from jewelry to fine art. The day’s events will also feature Drag Queen Storytime hosted by Philly’s renowned Philly Drag Mafia, bringing interactive and engaging stories for children and families at Launchpad Fitness.

As part of the festivities, Philadelphia Freedom Band will energize the crowd with their upbeat marching performance along Main Street at 1:00 p.m., offering hits from Elton John and Lady Gaga. Philly Drag Mafia will also return later in the day for an outdoor drag show at 2:00 p.m. on Gay Street, promising show-stopping performances, dazzling costumes, and all-around fierce energy.

Philly Drag Mafia and Community Collaborations

Philly Drag Mafia, two-time winner of Philly Magazine’s Best of Philly award, continues to be a cornerstone of this festival. This year, they are expanding their presence through multiple events, including their anticipated Drag Storytime and Drag Spin for Charity. In collaboration with Visit Philadelphia and Philadelphia Gay News, they recently broke the Guinness World Record for most attendees at a drag storytime—a monumental achievement that further highlights their influence and community outreach.

Beyond the stellar performances, the festival will also serve as a platform for numerous local LGBTQ+ organizations such as The Attic Youth Center and PFLAG Philadelphia, helping to raise awareness and provide resources for queer youth and families. Free Mom Hugs Pennsylvania, known for their unwavering support for LGBTQ+ individuals, will also be present to spread love and affirmation.

Rocky Horror Picture Show: An Evening Spectacular

As the day turns to night, Manayunk will continue to celebrate in style with a double feature of The Rocky Horror Picture Show, hosted by Transylvanian Nipple Productions at Venice Island Performing Arts Center. This 6:00 p.m. and 9:00 p.m. event invites fans of the cult classic to don their best costumes and take part in the interactive spectacle that has become synonymous with LGBTQ+ culture. The live shadowcast performance will transport the audience into a world of glam, camp, and unabashed fun, ensuring a night to remember.

A Growing Tradition of LGBTQ+ Pride

Since its inception in 2019, Out & About in MNYK has become an annual tradition, with each year growing larger and more diverse in its programming. This festival is more than just an event—it’s a celebration of the LGBTQ+ community’s resilience, creativity, and pride. “Each year, our goal is to expand this event and further collaborate with different LGBTQ+ organizations, performance groups, and artists,” says Caitlin Marsilii, Events Coordinator at the Manayunk Development Corporation. “It’s a day to feel welcome, seen, heard, and appreciated.”

Manayunk’s businesses and merchants also play a vital role in making the event a success, offering discounts and hosting events throughout the weekend. Local favorites such as Hotbox Yoga, Taqueria Amor, and The Goat’s Beard will be involved, ensuring that the celebration extends to every corner of the neighborhood.

Join the Celebration

The 2024 Out & About in MNYK Festival is set to be a highlight of Philadelphia’s LGBTQ+ calendar. Whether you’re participating in a charity spin class with VinChelle or cheering along to the tunes of the Philadelphia Freedom Band, there’s something for everyone to enjoy. With daytime activities for families, artist markets for shoppers, and thrilling evening performances, the event serves as a vibrant reminder that Manayunk is a welcoming and inclusive space for all.

For tickets, updates, and the full event schedule, visit www.manayunk.com/events/out-and-about-in-mnyk.html. Don’t miss out on an unforgettable day of community, creativity, and celebration!

Out & About in MNYK Festival: Event Schedule

Friday, October 4th, 2024

• Out & About Drag Bingo
  7:00 PM at Winnie’s Manayunk (4266 Main Street)
  Join the Philly Drag Mafia for an unforgettable bingo night filled with laughter, music, and fabulous prizes.
  
  

Saturday, October 5th, 2024

• Pop Icon Drag Spin with VinChelle
  9:00 AM at The Wall Cycling (132 Levering Street)
  Start the day with a high-energy spin class hosted by drag star VinChelle. A portion of proceeds will go to the Trevor Project.
  
  
• Out & About Artisan Market
  11:00 AM – 4:00 PM at Richards Apex (4202 Main Street)
  Shop from a curated collection of over fifteen LGBTQ+ and local artisans offering handmade goods across various mediums.
  
  
• Drag Storytime with Brittany Lynn
  11:00 AM at Launchpad Fitness (106 Gay Street)
  Enjoy a fun and interactive story hour with Philly Drag Mafia’s Brittany Lynn, perfect for families and kids.
  
  
• Philadelphia Freedom Marching Band
  1:00 PM – 2:00 PM on Main Street
  The Philadelphia Freedom Band brings a high-energy marching performance to Main Street, featuring LGBTQ+ anthems from Lady Gaga and Elton John.
  
  
• Gay Street Drag Show with Philly Drag Mafia
  2:00 PM at Gay Street and Main Street
  Get ready for an electrifying drag show with some of Philly’s top drag performers, showcasing dazzling costumes and fierce performances.
  
  
• Rocky Horror Picture Show with TNP Live Shadowcast
  6:00 PM and 9:00 PM at Venice Island Performing Arts Center
  Enjoy a double feature of the cult classic The Rocky Horror Picture Show with audience participation encouraged. Costumes are welcome!