The Catskills are more than just a picturesque escape. They’ve long been a cherished haven for LGBTQ+ New Yorkers, rich with queer history and cultural significance.
This June, the mountains will sashay back into the spotlight as Drag Me to the Catskills returns for its second annual celebration, taking place June 13–15, 2025, at the Forestburgh Playhouse Tavern. The three-day extravaganza promises a fabulous fusion of fierce performances, music and camp, headlined by drag royalty including Lady Bunny, Mrs. Kasha Davis, Thorgy Thor, Joey Arias and music diva Inaya Day.
The weekend kicks off Friday with the return of Comedy Queens of the Catskills. Then on Saturday, the glam dial turns up to 11 with a revival of NYC’s legendary Wigstock festival. Wigstock in the Catskills, hosted by Lady Bunny, begins at 7 p.m. and will feature an all-star lineup of iconic performers.
The grand finale is the crowd-favorite Drag Me to Brunch at 11 a.m.: a decadent blend of eggs and eleganza.
For those looking to escape NYC in style, a party bus package is available, hosted by the incomparable Kiki Ball-Change. The ride includes roundtrip travel, live drag performances, trivia, karaoke and over-the-top entertainment from the moment the wheels start rolling.
We caught up with Thorgy Thor and Kiki Ball-Change to talk about drag, deer and doing karaoke on the highway.
Wigstock in the Catskills?! Tell us, how big is the hair going to get on Saturday?
Thorgy Thor: Well, let’s start by saying that no one’s hair is as big—or disgusting!—as Lady Bunny’s. I’m offended already, and it hasn’t even begun! I’m planning some colorful looks for sure… guaranteed to infuse the ‘drag camp’ vibe into the evening!
Are you bringing the violin to Wigstock or is it strictly wigs and wackiness?
Thorgy Thor: I am juggling ideas back and forth and can’t decide!!! Should I bring my violin? Who knows? (wink)
If Wigstock had a dress code, would it be “camp chic,” “drag disaster” or “Thorgy realness”?
Thorgy Thor: Is there a difference between the three?! Just kidding, but honestly, that’s a good title for my book: Thorgy’s Really Campy-Chic Drag Disaster, which I guess would be a choose-your-own-adventure Young Adult fiction fantasy.
What’s your pre-show ritual before storming the Wigstock stage? Meditation or margaritas?
Thorgy Thor: Did someone say tequila?! (Laughing) Meditation is for an ashram!
What makes performing in the Catskills different from a big city gig?
Thorgy Thor: I’ve only performed in the Catskills one time, and that was last year’s event. It was literally in the middle of the woods! The quietness was deafening, until the show started. Let me tell you, the audience showed up and showed out! We gave them one hell of a show. I’m hoping I can harness a family of wild deer to pull a wagon for me to ride in on! The deer will obviously be in full drag and paid handsomely! No deer were hurt in the process of this ridiculous comment.
Finally—if someone only makes it to one event this weekend (though they should go to all), why should it absolutely be brunch with you?
Thorgy Thor: Are you kidding me? Bring electrolytes and get your ass to all the events!
Kiki, you’re hosting a party bus headed to the Catskills. Should we pack glitter, vocal cords or both?
Kiki Ball-Change: Bring cash because I’m performing!
What kind of chaos can guests expect the moment they step on board?
Kiki Ball-Change: I’ve never performed on a moving bus traveling down the highway before, so expect me to wear a nice chunky heel to keep my balance.
What’s more challenging: delivering a snatched lip sync while dodging potholes or keeping everyone’s attention when the drink cooler starts making the rounds?
Kiki Ball-Change: Definitely the potholes! I hope the potholes don’t bump me onto some unsuspecting handsome man’s lap!
Give us a peek inside your party bus playlist. What songs are guaranteed to turn a sleepy morning rider into a full-on dancing diva by exit 12?
Kiki Ball-Change: Oh, baby. We gotta have some Pride classics! Diana Ross, Lady Gaga, the Weather Girls, Charli XCX, Sylvester…the list goes on!
Finally, once you all roll into the Catskills, what’s the post-bus vibe? Are you more “Let’s go hiking in heels” or “Get me a cocktail and a chaise lounge, dahlin’”?
Kiki Ball-Change: Me?! Hiking in heels? Who do you think I am, Pattie Gonia?! I am looking forward to walking off that bus and right into a bar, then back to my hotel for a little post-ride ride…if you know what I mean.
Visit DragMetotheCatskills.com.
