What made RuPaul’s DragCon LA 2024 the ultimate drag celebration?

RuPaul’s DragCon Los Angeles 2024, held at the Los Angeles Convention Center on July 19 and 20, marked a vibrant return of the much-anticipated event. This year’s convention was a grand spectacle, bringing together fans and drag artists from around the globe. The event, presented by World of Wonder Productions, saw a multitude of activities, including meet and greets, photo ops, cast reunions, and booth signings.

The Grand Opening

The festivities kicked off with a pink ribbon-cutting ceremony presided over by RuPaul himself, alongside “RuPaul’s Drag Race” judge Michelle Visage. This ceremonial start was followed by an energetic DJ set that set the tone for the rest of the event. The Queens Walk, often referred to as the drag world’s Met Gala, saw renowned queens like Nymphia Wind, Jimbo, Aquaria, Trinity the Tuck, Alaska, Blu Hydrangea, Ra’Jah O’Hara, Marina Summers, and Gotmik gracing the main stage.

Highlights and Activities

The convention floor was a hive of activity with live tapings of popular shows such as “Bring Back My Girls,” “Hey Qween!,” “Live From The Pink Carpet,” and “Touch Ups” with Raven. These tapings, which featured special guests like Jimbo, were open to all attendees and will air on WOW Presents Plus later this year. This represents WOW Presents Plus’ largest footprint in the convention’s history.

Fans had the opportunity to meet over 200 former “Drag Race” contestants, including Mayhem Miller, LaLa Ri, Trinity The Tuck, Jaida Essence Hall, Aquaria, Ra’Jah O’Hara, Kerri Colby, Adore Delano, TS Madison, Shea Couleé, Scarlet Envy, La Grande Dame, and Lolita Banana. The event was a melting pot of charisma, uniqueness, nerve, and talent, drawing thousands of attendees from diverse backgrounds.

Special Appearances and Performances

The convention also featured special appearances by fashion designer Betsey Johnson and performances that kept the crowd on their feet. Tia Kofi’s performance with the Teletubbies was a crowd-pleaser, while Heidi N Closet teamed up with e.l.f. cosmetics to share essential products, take photos with fans, and offer glow-ups at glam stations. Attendees were treated to product samples, adding an extra layer of excitement to the event.

The casts of “Drag Race Mexico” Season 1 and “Canada’s Drag Race” Season 4 reunited for live tapings of “Bring Back My Girls,” hosted by TS Madison. These sessions, filmed live, will be released later this year. Additionally, “Touch Ups with Raven,” an original series on WOW Presents Plus, was taped live, featuring makeup artist Raven and special guest La Grande Dame.

Our Advice on the City

Los Angeles, the host city for RuPaul’s DragCon, offers a plethora of attractions for visitors. For those attending the convention, we recommend taking some time to explore the city’s vibrant arts scene. The Getty Center, with its impressive art collection and stunning architecture, is a must-visit. Additionally, the Griffith Observatory offers breathtaking views of the city and the Hollywood Sign.

For expert travelers, consider exploring the lesser-known neighborhoods of Los Angeles. Areas like Silver Lake and Echo Park are known for their eclectic mix of shops, cafes, and street art. These neighborhoods offer a unique glimpse into the city’s diverse culture and are perfect for those looking to experience Los Angeles beyond the typical tourist spots.

In conclusion, RuPaul’s DragCon LA 2024 was a spectacular celebration of drag culture, bringing together fans and artists in a vibrant and inclusive environment. Whether you’re a seasoned traveler or a first-time visitor, Los Angeles has something to offer everyone. Take the time to explore the city’s rich cultural landscape and discover the hidden gems that make it truly unique.