Rock M. Sakura is a Bay Area queen featured on Season 12 of RuPaul's Drag Race
San Francisco is known for its vibrant and diverse LGBTQ+ community, and one of the most entertaining aspects of this community is the drag scene.
Drag shows have become a staple in the city, offering a fun and fabulous night out for locals and tourists alike. From glamorous queens to incredible performances, the city offers a variety of drag shows that are not to be missed.
See also: The Ultimate Guide To The Castro's Gay Bars & Clubs
Whether you're a seasoned drag enthusiast or new to the scene, if you're looking to experience the best of San Francisco drag, here are some of the historic and cutting-edge drag shows that you shouldn't miss. Don’t forget to tip your drag queens!
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298 11th St.; 415-795-3180 / Website
Located in the heart of the city's vibrant SoMa district, Oasis is a premier venue for drag shows in San Francisco. Known for its extravagant productions and diverse lineup of performers, Oasis offers a unique experience for drag fans. From weekly shows featuring local talents to special events with renowned drag queens, there's always something exciting happening at Oasis.
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Various Locations / Website
The Stud is one of the most historic names on our list, having been a staple of San Francisco's LGBTQ+ community since 1966. An eclectic queer bar and nightclub for decades, The Stud was forced to shutter its permanent doors post-COVID but has sense reinvented itself as a roving event brand and space takeover. With its inclusive and welcoming atmosphere, The Stud hosts a range of drag performances, from traditional drag to avant-garde shows that push the boundaries of the art form. Drag Alive is one of its premiere events that showcases up-and-coming drag performers ready to shine and express their creativity. The show features a mix of lip-sync performances, live singing, and comedy acts, offering a diverse range of entertainment for the audience.
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4149 18th St.; 415-863-4027 / Website
The Monster Show is a must-see drag show held at The Edge, a popular gay bar in San Francisco's Castro district. Known for its themed performances and extravagant costumes, The Monster Show never fails to deliver a memorable experience. From Halloween-themed shows to tributes to iconic divas, each Thursday night performance is filled with excitement and surprises.
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133 Turk St.; 415-441-2922 / Website
Located in the Tenderloin district, Aunt Charlie's Lounge is a beloved dive bar that hosts some of the best drag performances in the city. The venue has a retro vibe and features drag shows that pay homage to the golden era of drag. With its intimate setting and talented performers, Aunt Charlie's Lounge offers a unique and memorable drag experience.
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2344 Market St. / Website
Beaux is a trendy nightclub in the Castro district that offers a vibrant drag show experience. Featuring a state-of-the-art sound system, fabulous lighting, and talented performers, Beaux guarantees a night filled with high-energy performances and unforgettable moments.
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375 11th St.; 415-626-1409 / Website
DNA Lounge has been an iconic drag show venue in San Francisco for more than three decades. The calendar bursts with events, including all-ages live music, 18+ dance parties, burlesque shows, lecture series and private parties. The drag performances feature artists who push the boundaries of gender and drag, making it a favorite among drag enthusiasts.
Looking for more LGBTQ+ fun in the Bay Area? Check our comprehensive guide to the Castro’s gay nightlife, and learn a bit of history from these 10 famous LGBTQ+ icons of SF.
Photography by: San Francisco Chronicle/Hearst Newspapers via Getty Images
