Good health care ain’t cheap, and ASHwell sexual health clinic’s alllllll about providing low-cost, high-quality care to Central Texans. So what’s an org to do when they need 1) cash and 2) awareness of their need for cash? No duh: They throw a party, or in this case: a HoeDown.
ASHwell’s country-queer “anti-gala” gayla, aka the HoeDown, gallops into town this Friday, Nov. 1, at Distribution Hall – fast becoming the hot spot for queer functions of a certain size. Attendees can take part in games, an auction, a mechanical bull, and enjoying loverly performances from local icons such as Bobby Pudrido, Louisianna Purchase, and Aira Juliet as the night’s emcee. You’ll also be chowing on barbecue courtesy of Urban Cowboy: Menu spotlights include crispy street-corn skillet cakes, bacon-wrapped jalapeños, and glazed mixed mushrooms – plus a big ol’ buffet.
Each $100+ ticket puts bucks in the pocket of an org that works year-round providing care for HIV and Hep C positive Central Texans as well as other social support services. ASHwell’s marketing & outreach specialist Abraham Resendez calls the HoeDown “not just a party – it’s life-saving support in the form of health insurance, co-pays, and medication for those who might not otherwise have access. … The HoeDown makes sure we can keep doing what we do best: putting health equity front and center, every single day.”
Okay, okay: Enough serious biz. What’s this about a down being hoed?
“The HoeDown isn’t about the usual fancy dress or formal vibes,” Resendez explains. “it’s a full-on country-queer, stigma-busting bash. We’re talking leather, rhinestones, bull-riding, and barbecue, not quiet speeches and seated dinners.” Recently risen to the top of the trend cycle, country-queer style has always been in fashion around these parts. While the traditional Western wear scene has a mixed history with the LGBTQ community, this particular party asks its guests to bring their own queer flair.
“The queer community has turned boots, denim, and fringe into bold, personal statements that break down old gender rules with a wink and a little sparkle,” Resendez says. “It’s this mix of grit and glam – like a classic cowboy hat, but with flair – where toughness and individuality come together.”
Getting to dress up in rhinestones, leather, and a 10-gallon hat for a good cause? Yee-haw! Sounds like a fabulous Friday to me.
Rocky’s Horror Happy Hour
Thursday 31, Austin Motel
Shivers abound at this new bar, where your Halloween pregame features spins by DJ Boi Orbison and a drag show featuring Lawrie Bird, Sinful Purchase, and Owie!
Two Ghouls, One Show
Thursday 31, the Iron Bear
Hallo your ween with co-hosts Chique Fil-Atio and Miss Good for a sexy li’l show that goes all night.
ErotiQueer Presents: Fight! Flight! Freeze! Or Fuck?
Friday 1, Austin Playhouse
Scary is the new sexy, at least at this show. ErotiQueer BurlesQue turns fears into fun at this phobia-themed burlesque performance that’ll also be ASL interpreted.
Brewskies and Baddies: the Brunch of 1000 Flops
Saturday 2, the ABGB
This one’s for the losers: Host Tara Cotta and cast celebrate “artists and music that have blossomed to new heights but still continue to flop.” Special guest Aeon Mavis York appears, with music spun by DJ Lavender Thug.
Fall ’24 K9-9K
Sunday 3, Walnut Creek Metro Park
Texas Pup 2024 runner-up Champ the Fox alongside Central Texas Boop Society invites all critters, handlers, and friends to join in a jaunt through the park, all in support of Transgender Awareness Month.
Lady Like
Sunday 3, AustinVentures Studio at Ballet Austin
Austin Dance Festival pairs up with aGLIFF to screen drag doc Lady Like, starring Drag Race’s Lady Camden. The star will also appear for a live Q&A alongside director Luke Willis after the film.
Outdoor Line Dance
Sunday 3, Lampkin Pavilion
Local Queer ATX and Country Fried Dance combine forces for an all-ages, where the local two-step teachers will attempt to set a personal record for their biggest event yet. Don’t worry about the weather report; that’s why this whole biz is UNDER the pavilion.
C U Next Tuesday
Tuesday 5, Cheer Up Charlies
It’s all about da femmes and da thems at BABE ATX’s open decks night, with special guest DJs and plenty of cool peeps to become BFFs with.
This article appears in November 1 • 2024.
