On Friday, January 3, 2025, Pittsburgh’s LGBTQ+ community gathered in full force to celebrate local drag sensation Lydia B. Kollins’ debut on RuPaul’s Drag Race Season 17. The evening kicked off with a packed viewing party at 5801 Video Lounge, hosted by Indica and Dixie Surewood, with Lydia herself in attendance. The venue buzzed with excitement as both Lydia’s biological and drag families came together, embodying the unity and support of Pittsburgh’s vibrant queer scene.
Following the premiere, the celebration continued over at P Town Bar with hosts Indica, Jaxa Froot, and Joe My Gosh, where the after-party featured electrifying performances from a lineup of local queens, including Jezebel, Kierra Darscell, Anemia Blunt-Young, Miley Michaels, Cherri Baum, Jackie Dior, Махху Rainbow, Blade Matthews, Joey Young, Kaydence McQueen, Bebe Beretta, Luna Skye, Zelda Kollins, Gwen Kollins, Dezz, Catty Wampus, and, of course, Lydia B. Kollins. A heartfelt highlight of the night was a surprise video message from Scarlett Fairweather, which moved Lydia to tears, underscoring the deep bonds within the drag community.
The overwhelming turnout and palpable energy throughout the night showcased the city’s pride and unwavering support for Lydia as she steps onto the national stage. #TeamButthole
Photos by Ava Grace.
