Strut, don’t walk, and kick off Pride weekend in SF at this annual NightLife fave. Join us as we celebrate LGBTQ+ pride with a night dedicated to community, activism, and joy. With fierce drag performances by the one and only Oaklash, we're serving a night of unapologetic self-expression and empowerment. Plus, vibe to soulful music by Azuah; join a down-to-earth panel discussion about what it means to be “queer enough”; pour your heart out in a letter-writing session in support of the global trans community with Point of Pride; meet local queer community orgs and bookstores, and more.

Sounds by MAKEROOM DJs

Check out MAKEROOM's exclusive NightLife playlist on the NightLife Spotify page.

Nightlife is supported by Local Motion® Vodka Sodas, light, refreshing, and simply made with vodka, carbonated water, and natural flavors. Grab Local Motion® at all bars throughout NightLife this year. Plus, snag a sample of Local Motion® during this event!

Music

Queer Enough - Live Panel in African Hall - 7:30pm

Queer Enough (Live Panel)
African Hall
7:30 PM

Gather around for candid discussion and Q&A moderated by the Academy's Senior Manager of Digital Engagement & Community, Sadie Samuels, featuring Board of Directors President Liz Byrne from Point of Pride and artist Car Nazzal of Thank You Ceramics. In this conversation, they will explore personal experiences and systemic pressures that leave some communities questioning if they’re “queer enough” for LGBTQ+ spaces (spoiler: they are).

Azuah - Live music in the East Garden at 8pm

Azuah
East Garden
8:00 - 8:30 PM

Enchanting audiences for over a decade with their unique blend of alternative soul and folk music, get ready to vibe to soulful sounds from Bay Area native Azuah.

OAKLASH - Drag Festival in the West Garden at 8:30pm

OAKLASH
West Garden
8:30 - 9:30 PM

With a focus on “mindful joy” brace yourself for an unforgettable night filled with jaw-dropping drag performances, stunning lewks, and legendary music from Oaklash, the Bay Area’s first and only drag and queer performance festival. *Note: Drag performances will be ASL interpreted.

Accompanied by DJ Beverly Chills

Check out Beverly Chills' exclusive NightLife playlist on the NightLife Spotify page

Point of Pride - letter-writing activity in the Swamp

Point of Pride
Swamp
6:00 - 10:00 PM

Support the larger global trans community in a letter writing activity with Point of Pride, a non-profit organization that provides financial aid and direct support to transgender and non-binary folks in need of health and wellness care. Grab a pen and a card to send notes of encouragement, words of wisdom, positive affirmations and more that provide powerful reminders that trans folks are seen, supported, and valid.

Community Corner - tabling and vendors in the Swamp

Community Corner
Swamp
6:00 - 10:00 PM

Connect with organizations that are making strides in the community and say hello to:

The Menu - Drinks and Bites from Liquid Happiness and Chef Rob

The Menu
Drinks and Bites from Liquid Happiness and Chef Rob

In The Academy Cafe:

Late Night Bagel - Rainbow bagel breakfast sandwich
Perfect Pie - Veggie rainbow pizza

At The Swamp & Aquarium Bars:

Love Juice - Vodka, lavender syrup, lemon, soda

A few don't-miss NightLife details:

NightLife is for adults 21+ only. Valid, physical photo ID required.
Last entry into Osher Rainforest is 7:30 pm — our animals need their sleep.
Gems and Minerals Unearthed opens to the public at 8:30 pm. It is reserved for NightLife Plus guests from 6 - 8:30 pm.
Morrison Planetarium passes are available online in advance for $5 each while supplies last. Showtimes are 6:30, 7:30, 8:30, and 9:30 pm. A limited number of standby seats will be available for all showtimes as space allows on a first-come, first-served basis.
Food and drink are not permitted in Osher Rainforest, Morrison Planetarium, or the Swamp.
While not required, we encourage all guests to stay up-to-date on their vaccinations and to mask up indoors. If you’re feeling sick or have been in close contact with someone who has recently tested positive for COVID-19 or another respiratory virus, please visit another time. View our health and safety page.
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