Leather and chest hair and bears, oh my! Bears are coming out of hibernation and ready to celebrate for the 25th anniversary of Bear Bust, the longest-running event catering to bears in Florida.
After a hectic transition when the Bears of Central Florida dissolved and Parliament House took over the festivities three years ago, Bear Bust is once again trying to establish its status as the can’t-miss spectacle of the season for the bear community across the nation.
“We’re really just trying to bring it back to what it always should be… and that’s an entertainment force,” said Pat O’Rourke, an organizer for the event.
Over the course of three days, expect concerts by singer-songwriters Matt Alber, Matt Zarley, Eric Himan and Keith London, the first openly-gay contestant on American Idol to make it through to Hollywood Week.
“I really tried to find musicians that really have a strong presence and are a big part of the community, and that are extremely talented on top of everything else,” O’Rourke said. “I’m trying to make sure that everybody has a chance to see and appreciate that these guys are making strides for the LGBT community in the music world.”
In addition to the live singers, attendees can dance to the spins of DJ Walter, DJ C-Rail and Neon the GlowGoBear, all back by popular demand. Comedy fans can meet the cast of web series, Where the Bears Are and watch Varla Jean Merman perform a one-woman show. Attendees can also participate in or cheer on the Mr. Perky Butt and Mr. Bear Bust 2016 contests.
Bear Bust will feature two auctions for underwear and jocks. All proceeds will benefit The Orlando Sisters of Perpetual Indulgence, a charity promoting HIV awareness, safe sex and queer rights and visibility.
O’Rourke said attendees can also expect about 20 vendors, including Adonis Leather Crafters, Go Bearr, Hungry Bear Pizza and Barber Pete, who will be doing shaves, haircuts and beard trims.
“No matter what you’re into, you’ll be able to find something there to enjoy, and you’ll want to come back next year because you enjoyed it so much this year.” O’Rourke said. “Whether you’re a part of the bear community or not, it’s always just a lot of fun.”
The event kicks off with a Bearaoke party the night of Oct. 15 and runs through early Monday morning. Space at the Parliament House is filling up fast, but those who don’t reserve a room can still purchase run passes to enjoy all of the festivities at BearBust.org.
