National Drag Day

A stunning drag performer strutting down the runway, adorned in glamorous attire, with a colorful crowd cheering in the background.. — National drag day illustration

Hey there, drag enthusiasts! Get ready to rev up your engines and unleash your inner diva because it's National Drag Day! Prepare to be entertained, inspired, and dazzled as we dive into the fabulous world of drag. Whether you're a fan of drag queens, drag kings, or anything in between, this day is all about celebrating the artistry, talent, and sheer fabulousness of drag performers. So, let's sashay down the runway and explore the vibrant history of National Drag Day!

When is Drag Day?

It's national drag day on the 27th January.

The Birth of National Drag Day

National Drag Day was born out of the love and admiration for the incredible art form of drag. It all started when a group of passionate drag enthusiasts decided that drag needed its own special day of celebration and recognition. They wanted to honor the drag performers who have been instrumental in breaking boundaries, challenging societal norms, and entertaining audiences worldwide. And thus, National Drag Day came into existence.

This fantastic holiday aims to showcase the stunning creativity and undeniable talent that exists within the drag community. It's a day to honor the performers who have perfected the art of transformation, embodying their larger-than-life alter egos with grace, humor, and style.

A Day to Embrace Individuality

At its core, National Drag Day is all about embracing individuality and self-expression. Drag allows performers to shed societal expectations and explore different facets of their personalities. It's a form of liberation, a way to challenge norms, and a celebration of diversity.

So, whether you're a seasoned drag aficionado or someone who's curious about the art form, National Drag Day encourages everyone to appreciate and respect the talent, hard work, and dedication that goes into creating a captivating drag performance.

Join in the Celebration!

Wondering how you can celebrate National Drag Day? Well, the possibilities are as endless as a drag queen's wardrobe! Here are a few ideas to get you started:

Attend a live drag show in your area and support local drag performers.
Explore the rich history of drag through documentaries, books, or online resources.
Invite your friends over for a fabulous drag-themed movie night.
Try your hand at drag makeup and create your own fierce look.

No matter how you choose to celebrate, be sure to spread the love and show appreciation for the incredible drag artists who continue to inspire and entertain us.

History behind the term 'Drag'

1870

Theatrical Origins

In the late 19th century, the term 'drag' originated in the theater scene. It referred to men who would dress in women's clothing and perform female roles on stage. This practice became popular in the British music hall tradition, where it was common for comedic actors to portray women characters in exaggerated costumes and makeup.

1870

Slang Term Emergence

As 'drag' became associated with men dressing in women's clothing for entertainment purposes, it also started to be used as a slang term amongst performers themselves. They used 'drag' as a code-word to refer to their costumes and apparel, which were often designed to create an exaggerated feminine appearance.

1920

Underground LGBTQ+ Culture

During the 1920s, the term 'drag' began to be used as a part of the secret language of the underground LGBTQ+ community. It served as a euphemism for the act of cross-dressing, which was often considered taboo at the time. 'Drag' allowed LGBTQ+ individuals to communicate covertly about their shared experiences and identities.

1940

Drag Balls and Pageants

In the 1940s, 'drag' became associated with a new form of social events known as 'drag balls' or 'drag pageants.' These gatherings, primarily within LGBTQ+ communities, featured drag performers who competed in categories showcasing their costumes, performances, and transformative abilities. Drag balls became an important space for self-expression and community building.

1990

Mainstream Popularity

The term 'drag' gained mainstream popularity in the 1990s with the rise of drag culture in mainstream entertainment. Television shows like 'RuPaul's Drag Race' brought drag performance to a wider audience. Drag queens and kings gained recognition as skilled artists, blurring the lines between gender, and reshaping the understanding of beauty and self-identity.

Did you know?

Did you know that RuPaul's Drag Race, a popular reality TV show that has introduced drag to a wider audience, has won multiple Emmy Awards? That's right, queens and kings are slaying not only on the runway but also on the award stage!