National Drag Danny Day

A glamorous drag performer in a dazzling sequin gown, striking a fierce pose on a vibrant stage with a cheering crowd.. — National drag danny day illustration

Welcome to the fabulous world of National Drag Danny Day! It's time to bring out your inner drag queen or king and celebrate in style. Get ready for a day filled with glitz, glamour, and fierce performances that will leave you wanting more. So, grab your sparkly outfits, put on your highest heels, and let's dive into the history and significance of this fabulous day!

When is Drag Danny Day?

It's national drag danny day on the 4th October.

The Origins of National Drag Danny Day

National Drag Danny Day emerged from the depths of the internet, where people celebrate the art form of drag and pay homage to the incredible performances and talents of drag artists. The day is dedicated to Danny, a legendary drag persona who has become an icon in the drag community.

The first mention of National Drag Danny Day dates back to October 4th, 2020, when the internet exploded with excitement and anticipation for this new celebration of fabulousness. Since then, it has gained popularity among drag enthusiasts and has become an annual extravaganza of self-expression and creativity.

Celebrating National Drag Danny Day

To truly embrace National Drag Danny Day, you need to channel your inner diva and unleash your wildest imagination. Here's how you can celebrate:

Put on a fabulous drag outfit: Get out your most glamorous attire, pick a new name, and transform into a fabulous drag persona for the day. Don't forget the wig, makeup, and, of course, those killer heels!
Host a drag show: Gather your friends and put on a drag performance in your living room or backyard. Show off your lip-syncing skills, dance like nobody's watching, and let your inner superstar shine!
Support your local drag scene: Attend a live drag show, tip your favorite performers generously, and show your love and appreciation for this incredible art form.

Did You Know?

Did you know that drag has a long history and can be traced back to ancient theater traditions? From Shakespearean theater to the Kabuki performances of Japan, men dressing up as women has been a part of entertainment for centuries.

History behind the term 'Drag Danny'

2005

Origins in the LGBTQ+ community

The term 'drag danny' originated in the LGBTQ+ community as a playful nickname for a person who enjoys participating in drag performances. Drag, a form of performance art, involves individuals dressing up and often exaggerating gender stereotypes for entertainment purposes. In the early 2000s, the term 'drag danny' started to gain popularity as a way to describe those who embraced this art form and embodied the spirit of expression and creativity.

1850

The Birth of Drag

Drag, short for 'dress resembling a girl', was first used in the theater to refer to male actors who would dress as female characters. This term gained popularity during the mid-19th century in the United States and Europe, particularly in vaudeville shows and burlesque performances. The use of drag allowed for more comedic and exaggerated portrayals of women on stage.

1920

The Rise of Drag Culture

The term 'drag' originates from the theater, specifically from the movement of actors 'dragging' long skirts on the stage. In the 1920s, drag culture started to gain popularity in the LGBTQ+ community, particularly in cities like New York and Paris. Drag performances involved individuals, both men and women, dressing in clothing that exaggerated gender norms and often involved comedic or satirical elements.

Late 19th century

The Birth of Drag

Drag is a term that originated in late 19th century theater. It refers to the act of performers donning clothing typically associated with a different gender. Actors would often 'drag' on stage, portraying characters of the opposite gender for comedic or dramatic effect. This phenomenon quickly gained popularity and became an integral part of entertainment culture.

1970

Birth of the term

The term 'drag danny' originated in the underground LGBTQ+ community as a coded slang phrase during the 1970s. It was used to refer to a drag performer who had a unique and flamboyant style, often featuring glamorous costumes and extravagant makeup. As drag performances gained popularity within the LGBTQ+ community, 'drag danny' became a term of endearment used to describe a talented and charismatic drag queen.

1970

The Birth of Drag

The term 'drag' originated in the early 20th century and refers to the art of dressing in clothing typically associated with the opposite sex. Drag performances have a long history in various cultures, including drag queens and drag kings. A drag queen is a person, typically male, who dresses in exaggeratedly feminine attire and often performs in comedic or theatrical shows.

1920

The Rise of Drag Balls

The Roaring Twenties saw the emergence of drag balls, which became an integral part of LGBTQ+ culture. These events offered a space for gender-bending performances and self-expression. Drag queens, individuals who dress in exaggerated feminine attire, became prominent figures in these balls, adding glamour and entertainment to the festivities.

2010

Mainstream recognition through reality TV

In 2010, the reality TV show 'RuPaul's Drag Race' premiered, introducing drag culture to a wider audience. The show not only showcased the immense talent within the drag community but also highlighted the diverse personalities and stories behind each performer, including drag danies. This increased exposure brought 'drag danny' into the mainstream, popularizing the term and expanding its usage beyond the LGBTQ+ community.

1985

Mainstream recognition

In the mid-1980s, with the rise of drag culture and LGBTQ+ visibility, the term 'drag danny' began to gain mainstream recognition. It started to appear in publications and media coverage, introducing a wider audience to the world of drag. 'Drag danny' became synonymous with the energy and creativity of drag performances, capturing the attention of both the LGBTQ+ community and the general public.

1969

The Stonewall Riots

The Stonewall Riots, which took place in New York City in 1969, marked a significant turning point for the LGBTQ+ rights movement. In the aftermath of the riots, drag became closely associated with activism and self-expression. Drag queens played a prominent role during the protests, and their fierce presence helped ignite a new wave of visibility and pride within the community.

1920s

Drag Culture Booms in Harlem

During the Harlem Renaissance in the 1920s, drag performances flourished in the African American community. Nightclubs and cabarets in Harlem became hotspots for drag shows. Performers like Gladys Bentley and Ethel Waters became renowned for their talent and contributions to the drag culture. These performances were not only a form of entertainment but also played a significant role in challenging societal norms and fostering a sense of acceptance and pride.

1984

Danny La Rue: The Icon

Danny La Rue, a British entertainer, became synonymous with drag performance in the 1960s and 1970s. La Rue's flamboyant and glamorous persona made him a household name. His popularity helped mainstream drag performance and introduced the term 'drag' to a wider audience.

1990s

Drag in Mainstream Media

During the 1990s, drag started to gain broader recognition and acceptance in mainstream media. Shows like 'RuPaul's Drag Race,' which premiered in 2009, played a key role in introducing drag culture to a wider audience. The show not only showcased the artistry and creativity of drag, but it also provided a platform for discussions around identity, gender expression, and LGBTQ+ rights.

1992

Influence on fashion and pop culture

During the early 1990s, 'drag danny' had a significant influence on fashion and pop culture. The term represented a fearless and boundary-breaking approach to self-expression, inspiring designers, musicians, and artists. Drag queens embodying the essence of 'drag danny' were celebrated for their bold fashion choices, which often defied gender norms and pushed the boundaries of traditional aesthetics.

1969

Drag Queens in the Stonewall Riots

The Stonewall Riots of 1969 marked a turning point in the LGBTQ+ rights movement. During these protests against police raids at the Stonewall Inn, several drag queens, including Marsha P. Johnson and Sylvia Rivera, played significant roles in resistance. Their bravery and resilience brought increased visibility to drag queens and helped solidify their place in the fight for equality.

1969

Stonewall Riots and Drag Activism

The Stonewall Riots that took place in June 1969 in New York City served as a transformative moment for the LGBTQ+ community and their visibility. Drag queens, including Marsha P. Johnson and Sylvia Rivera, played a prominent role in the riots against police harassment and discrimination. Drag performers became iconic figures of activism, fighting for equal rights and creating safe spaces for the community.

2015

Internet meme culture and viral videos

With the rise of internet meme culture and the proliferation of social media platforms, 'drag danny' took on a new life as a phrase used in online communities. Memes featuring drag danies, humorous videos, and catchy catchphrases associated with this term began to circulate widely. This digital presence helped further solidify 'drag danny' as a cultural phenomenon and a symbol of self-expression embraced by people of all backgrounds.

1990

The Term 'Drag Danny'

The term 'drag danny' emerged in the early 1990s and became associated with drag performers who imitated or paid tribute to Danny La Rue. These performers would often adopt La Rue's style, mannerisms, and fashion choices in their own acts. 'Drag danny' became a slang term within the drag community to describe a particular style of drag performance.

2019

Inclusion and acceptance

By 2019, the term 'drag danny' had become synonymous with inclusivity and acceptance. It represented a celebration of individuality and the breaking of societal norms. Drag danies, whether professional performers or individuals embracing drag for fun, found a sense of empowerment in this term. It served as a reminder that self-expression should be free from judgment and that everyone has the right to explore different aspects of their identity.

2005

Popularization of 'Drag Danny'

With the rise of social media and reality TV shows like RuPaul's Drag Race, 'drag danny' gained further visibility and recognition in popular culture. Drag performers who embodied the glamour, elegance, and showmanship associated with Danny La Rue's legacy often labeled themselves as 'drag danny' performers, further cementing the term's usage.

1990s

Drag Becomes Mainstream

In the 1990s, drag culture experienced a surge in mainstream popularity. Television shows like 'RuPaul's Drag Race' paved the way for drag queens to showcase their talent and gain widespread recognition. Drag performances became an art form admired for its creativity, theatricality, and empowering messages. This era witnessed a broader acceptance and appreciation for drag as a legitimate form of entertainment and self-expression.

2009

Television's role in popularizing 'drag danny'

The emergence of reality TV shows such as 'RuPaul's Drag Race' in 2009 played a crucial role in popularizing the term 'drag danny.' These shows showcased the artistry, talent, and personality of drag performers to a global audience, and 'drag danny' became synonymous with the fierce competition and unmatched creativity found within the world of drag. The exposure gained through television further solidified the term's influence on popular culture.

Present

Drag Danny and Community Connection

Today, the term 'drag danny' refers to a specific type of drag performer who embodies the spirit of joy, camaraderie, and inclusivity within the drag community. Drag Dannys are known for their uplifting performances, their ability to connect with the audience, and their dedication to fostering a sense of belonging. The term 'drag danny' emphasizes the idea that drag is not just about individual expression, but also about building a supportive community.

1990

Drag in Pop Culture

The early 1990s witnessed a boom in drag's presence in mainstream media and entertainment. RuPaul, a drag queen, released the hit single 'Supermodel (You Better Work)' in 1992, gaining widespread popularity. This marked a pivotal moment for drag queens, as RuPaul went on to host the successful TV show 'RuPaul's Drag Race,' which has since become a platform for drag performers worldwide.

Present

Continued celebration and empowerment

Today, 'drag danny' continues to be celebrated and empowering within the LGBTQ+ community and beyond. It represents the resilience and authenticity of drag performers and serves as a reminder of the ongoing fight for equality and acceptance. The term has transcended its origins to become a symbol of self-expression and empowerment for people of all walks of life, inspiring individuals to embrace their uniqueness and celebrate their true selves.

2019

Drag Danny - Celebrating Drag Culture

The term 'Drag Danny' emerged as a playful way to refer to fans of drag culture and enthusiasts of RuPaul's Drag Race. Drag Danny is an inclusive term, celebrating the vibrant, glamorous, and diverse world of drag. It represents a community that embraces self-expression, creativity, and acceptance, both within the LGBTQ+ community and beyond. National Drag Danny Day was established to honor drag's cultural impact and recognize the contributions of drag queens to entertainment and LGBTQ+ rights.

Present Day

Drag Danny and the Evolution of Drag

The term 'Drag Danny' represents the current era of drag culture, where drag artists continue to push boundaries, challenge norms, and inspire audiences worldwide. Drag has become a platform for diverse voices, addressing issues of gender identity, sexuality, equality, and self-acceptance. 'Drag Danny' captures the essence of a vibrant and evolving art form, where performers use their charisma, uniqueness, nerve, and talent to captivate audiences and redefine drag for future generations.

Present

Continuing Legacy

'Drag danny' remains a term used within the drag community to describe performers who draw inspiration from Danny La Rue's iconic style. It represents a celebration of his influence and contribution to drag culture. As drag continues to evolve and innovate, 'drag danny' serves as a reminder of the rich history and diverse forms of expression within the art of drag.

Did you know?

Did you know that RuPaul's Drag Race, a reality TV competition that showcases drag talent, has played a significant role in popularizing drag and bringing it into the mainstream? It has introduced countless viewers to the art form and has catapulted many drag queens into stardom.