Steel City Softball to Debut “Gloves & Glitter” Charity Drag Game During Pride Weekend

Softball meets sequins Pride Weekend as the Steel City Softball League launches its first-ever “Gloves & Glitter” charity drag softball game, a spirited mashup of camp, competition, and community. Inspired by Columbus’s iconic “Bat-n-Rouge,” now celebrating its 38th year, this Pittsburgh edition aims to carve out its own legacy of laughter, glam, and giving back.

Set for Saturday, May 31, 2025 at Les Getz Memorial Park in Swissvale, the event invites the public to witness a fabulous transformation. League players ditch their standard uniforms for wigs, lashes, and lewks in a game where athleticism meets artistry. With drag performances woven into the innings and every play promising a fresh dose of hilarity, this isn’t your average day at the ballpark.

Gates open at Noon, with the game set to start at 1:00 PM. The always electrifying Indi Skies will host the festivities, serving sass, jokes, and high energy as emcee. Attendees can enjoy local eats and drinks from an on-site food and beer truck, keeping the vibes festive and the fans well-fed.

Tickets are $10 in advance or $15 at the gate, with outfield tent spaces available for $100, a perfect setup for groups wanting to spread out in style. Each tent reservation includes two admission tickets.

Proceeds from “Gloves & Glitter” will support the Steel City Softball League’s mission of inclusivity, empowerment, and community-building through sport. Whether you’re a die-hard softball fan, a drag enthusiast, or just love queer joy in public spaces, this event is poised to become a can’t-miss highlight of Pride weekend.

Don’t strike out on this one! For more information or to snag your tickets, tap the button below.

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Jeff Freedman (he/him) is a Pittsburgh native celebrating his fourth decade of LGBTQ+ community volunteerism. A co-founder of the Steel City Softball League in 1981, Jeff has remained a dedicated advocate ever since. His leadership includes serving on the Pennsylvania Governor’s Advisory Commission for LGBTQ Affairs, chairing Pittsburgh Pride celebrations from 2005 to 2007, and currently serving as the Pittsburgh Pride March & Parade Co-Chair. In recognition of his lifelong dedication, Jeff was named the 2025 Pittsburgh Pride Grand Marshal. Regular parade-goers will recognize him as the enthusiastic voice on the megaphone organizing the march participants. Jeff looks forward to sharing his best stories—at least the printable ones—with the QBurgh community.