Manchester’s LGBTQ+ creative scene is getting a exciting new event. QuAC (Queer Art Community) has announced its very first festival, Queer Con. This full-day event is all about celebrating the amazing, and often overlooked, talent of local queer artists and performers.
The goal of Queer Con is to create a welcoming space for new queer voices. The event will run from day to night in the heart of Manchester’s Gay Village, and there is a lot to look forward to.
Here is what you can expect from the lineup:
Part 1: Daytime Market & Talks (12 PM – 6 PM)
Start the day by exploring a huge art market with over 25 local artists and independent businesses. It is the perfect place to shop for unique items, including:
Visual art and zines (mini-magazines)
Fashion and jewellery
Ceramics and handmade designs
During the afternoon, you can also sit in on live book and script readings, casual chats with local artists, and helpful discussions led by sex educators.
Part 2: Evening Variety Show (8 PM – 2 AM)
When the sun goes down, the event turns into a high-energy variety show. This part of the night will feature some of Manchester’s best queer talent, including drag artists, musicians, comedians, and cabaret acts.
The organizers have also announced a major headline act: Lill, a popular star from RuPaul’s Drag Race UK, will be hitting the stage for a special performance.
The Perks: Cheap Pizza and Drinks!
The fun does not stop at the main venue. Queer Con has partnered with Nell’s Pizza to offer a great food deal. If you have an event wristband, you can get a slice of pizza and a pint for only £8 between midday and 8 PM.
Supporting Local Artists
QuAC hopes to make Queer Con a regular event in Manchester. By coming along to this first festival, you get a fun day out and directly support the next generation of local LGBTQ+ talent.
Queer Con takes place in Manchester’s Gay Village. Ticket details and the full list of artists will be announced soon.