Nearly 200 drag queens converged in East London for the kickoff of DragCon UK. The annual event, now in its third year, plays host to Drag Race enthusiasts and featured international queens at ExCel London.
The convention offers live performances, opportunities for fans to meet their favorite queens, and a variety of shopping booths.
The BBC’s LGBT & Identity Producer, Josh Parry, attended the Saturday morning ribbon-cutting and celebrated the event's vibrant atmosphere.
At the grand opening, about 180 queens made their grand entrance along the pink carpet, with Drag Race UK judge Michelle Visage extending a warm welcome.
Drag queen Ella Vaday of Dagenham highlighted the significance of fan interaction, emphasizing the chance to connect and the positive vibes the event fosters.
Cheryl Hole, a contestant from the first series of Drag Race UK and a Chelmsford native, praised the event as an exceptional weekend where people worldwide can rejoice in their shared passions.
Fenton Bailey, the head of the US production company responsible for RuPaul's Drag Race, expressed awe at the community's representation on TV and the joy of face-to-face gatherings. He noted the event's chaotic yet wonderfully communal energy.