WHEN LIFE’S A DRAG, there’s one sure thing that will save you from the tedium: watching a drag queen read a room to shreds. Fortunately, there are plenty of drag shows in Houston where the queens come ready to throw the shadiest of shade and to don wigs so bouffant and meticulously coiffed they would put a Tammy Wynette hairpiece to shame.
We’re here to spill the tea on the best drag shows in Houston. Whether you’re in the mood for an old-school show at Michael’s Outpost or you’re itching for a lively drag Sunday Funday activity, we’re here to make sure your drag-watching plans are always the most fabulous.
The Stars and Legends Show at Barcode
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Houston has many LGBTQ+ bars, but it only has one fully dedicated to drag. While Barcode has had many names over its 50-year history, it remains one of the top spots in town to watch drag performances. The Stars and Legends show, hosted by a living legend every Friday and Saturday at 10:30pm, is a guaranteed fun-filled night of big wigs and sequined ensembles.
Sunday Spotlight at Eagle Houston
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This show is hosted by Alexyeus Paris every Sunday at 7:30pm at Eagle Houston. The show is open to all and includes four new entertainers every month. The music, all tunes the audience can sing along to, usually includes lots of Ariana Grande, Beyoncé, and other Top 40 treats. Enjoy the show with $4 well drinks and $5 Wheatley vodka from noon to 9pm.
The Broad’s Way and Laugh Track at Michael’s Outpost
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This bar may be more on the laid-back side of a night out, but the drag entertainment throughout the week is nothing short of spectacular. Think Off Broadway–level vocal talent from local leading ladies, snazzy bartenders, and, of course, show tunes from every era. Grab a nightcap on a Monday and watch the Broad’s Way, hosted by Regina Thorne-Dubois, also known as “the Broadway Beard of Houston,” or catch the comedy showcase Laugh Track on Tuesday at9pm for some not-so-clean jokes and a hearty chortle.
Snatched at Ripcord
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Get turned up on a Tuesday (bimonthly) this drag show hosted by Reign LaRue at 10:30pm. Since Ripcord is Houston’s oldest leather bar, consider dressing the part by coming by in your favorite leather harness, latex ensemble, or sports gear. These high-energy shows are intimate affairs thanks to the bar’s small size, meaning you’ll be able to get right up next to the queens as they skulk their way through the crowd.
Millennial Dolls at South Beach
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Every Thursday at 11pm, legendary bar South Beach and diva extraordinaire Reigh LaRue host this spirited drag show right under the bar’s famous spinning chandelier. Held during the bar’s $1 Well Drink Wednesday night, the show features a rotating cast with weekly special guests. Upbeat music is provided by DJ Atreyu Frausto, who spins only the hottest, newest tracks beginning at 9pm.
