For Manayunk, Out & About is more than a festival — it’s a declaration.
The three-day extravaganza will celebrate National Coming Out Day with a packed lineup of drag shows, live music, queer art, film, and family-friendly events.
Running Friday, Oct. 3, through Sunday, Oct. 5, the festival centers on LGBTQ+ performers, makers, and organizations, and transforms Manayunk into a living, breathing celebration.
“Out & About in MNYK highlights the diversity and heart of Manayunk,” said Janine Gasarowski, Manayunk Development Corporation Branding & Digital Marketing Manager. “We’re proud to stand with the LGBTQ+ community and create a space where everyone feels seen, celebrated and welcomed.”
A festival rooted in community
Since its launch in 2019, Out & About has built its reputation on two pillars: high-energy performances and authentic community partnerships. The festival was created as a way to connect local businesses, artists, and performers with the LGBTQ+ community.
Over the years, it has grown into a marquee fall event, attracting both neighbors and visitors who are looking for a weekend that blends neighborhood charm with queer creativity. This year’s schedule underscores that mission, featuring everything from drag brunches and artisan markets to fitness events and cult cinema.
Friday night warm-up
The weekend kicks off on Friday, Oct. 3, with Drag Bingo at Winnie’s, hosted by the fabulous Brittany Lynn (7 p.m., $25 per person, which includes 5 bingo games). Also on Friday night, Fat Lady Brewing will transform into a cabaret stage for Broadway’s Baddest: A Miscast Villains of Broadway Night of Cabaret by the Pretzel Theater Company (7:30 p.m., $15 per person).
Saturday on Main Street
Saturday, Oct. 4, is the centerpiece of the festival, beginning at 9 a.m. with the Out & About Queer Run. Hosted by Philadelphia Runner and Queer Run, the no-cost, 5K-style fun run invites runners of all levels to lace up and celebrate visibility through movement.
By late morning, Main Street will be buzzing with activity. Two artisan vendor markets — at Canal View Park and RichardsApex Lot — will be open for browsing (11 a.m. to 4 p.m.), while Philly Drag Mafia takes over Gay Street with a free drag story time hosted by Brittany Lynn (11 a.m.). A second story time will be held at Cupid’s Bookshop, 106 Grape Street (noon).
At 12:15 p.m., the Philadelphia Freedom Band marches through Manayunk with its signature sound. The volunteer-based band, known for its mix of amateur and professional musicians, has become a highlight of Out & About thanks to its visible show of LGBTQ+ solidarity.
Also in the afternoon, Philly Drag Mafia and DJ Da Boo Boo bring the party to the streets with an open-air drag show (1 p.m.), followed by the inaugural Manayunk Idol Karaoke Competition (3 p.m.). Contestants will compete for $150 in prizes — and the chance to perform alongside Philly Drag Mafia.
The night belongs to ‘The Rocky Horror Picture Show,’ screened twice (6 and 9 p.m.) at the Venice Island Performing Arts Center. Philly’s own Transylvanian Nipple Productions, who’ve been shadowcasting ‘Rocky Horror’ since 1997, will lead the live experience. Costumes, prop bags, and audience participation are not only encouraged — they’re expected. Tickets are $20 per person.
Sunday wind-down
Out & About closes with a Sunday drag brunch at Fat Lady Brewing (noon). Hosted by Philadelphia’s own Ms. Terr, Dinah Lonliness, and Hungry da Clown — the event provides a relaxed (and delicious) finale to a packed weekend.
If you go
The Out & About festival takes place Friday, Oct. 3 through Sunday, Oct. 5 along Main Street in Manayunk. Many events are free; However, tickets are required for ‘Rocky Horror,’ Drag Bingo, and Broadway Cabaret. For more information and a complete schedule, visit manayunk.com
