How Halloween Became "Gay Christmas"
Discover how Halloween became the biggest gay festival in America
You’ve heard the expression “camp as Christmas”, but can anything be as camp as Halloween? For the LGBTQ+ community, Halloween has evolved into something much more than just a night of spooky fun. It has become a cultural phenomenon, often called "Gay Christmas."
This transformation from a traditional holiday to the biggest festival on the LGBTQ+ calendar is rooted in historical context, the embrace of theatricality, and the creation of safe spaces. In this blog, we'll explore how Halloween became the biggest gay festival and what it means for the community today.
The Historical Roots of Halloween in the LGBTQ+ Community
The relationship between Halloween and the LGBTQ+ community dates back to the early 20th century. In a time when being openly gay was socially unacceptable and, in many places, illegal, Halloween offered a rare opportunity for LGBTQ+ individuals to express themselves more freely. The holiday's tradition of dressing up in costumes provided a socially acceptable outlet for cross-dressing, which was otherwise taboo.
During Halloween, the societal rules around clothing and behavior were temporarily relaxed. This allowed gay men, in particular, to explore their identities through costume and drag, often in ways that would have been dangerous or frowned upon during the rest of the year. The anonymity of a mask or costume offered a sense of freedom, and LGBTQ+ individuals began to seize this opportunity to express aspects of themselves that they had to keep hidden in everyday life.
Creating Safe Spaces: Halloween as a Refuge
As Halloween celebrations grew in popularity, they also became increasingly important as safe spaces for the LGBTQ+ community. In the mid-20th century, LGBTQ+ people began organizing their own Halloween parties and gatherings. Oscar Wilde said “Give a man a mask and he’ll tell the truth” for a reason. As a gay man, he knew the value of disguise and theatricality.
In cities with significant LGBTQ+ populations, such as New York, San Francisco, and Los Angeles, Halloween became synonymous with large, inclusive gatherings where people could connect.
In the Castro District of San Francisco and Greenwich Village in New York, Halloween parades and street parties emerged as key events on the LGBTQ+ calendar.
The Embrace of Theatricality and Camp
Naturally, the campy aspects of Halloween appeal to the gays. As a viral Tweet once said, are you even living if you’re not someone the church would have burned 400 years ago?
A disproportionate number of gays work in the fashion and beauty industries. Having a legit opportunity to dress up as a witch (or some other demon) is appealing: it’s also a chance to show off your sewing skills.
Fans of Paris is Burning will recognize the links between Halloween and ballroom culture. It’s all about dressing up, living out a fantasy and suspending the rules that usually govern our lives.
Today, Halloween is the most anticipated event on the LGBTQ+ calendar, often overshadowing Pride in terms of sheer enthusiasm and participation.
Here are some of our favorite LGBTQ+ Halloween events in the USA
Halloween New Orleans (HNO) - New Orleans, LA
One of the largest and most iconic gay Halloween events in the country, HNO is a multi-day celebration featuring themed parties, costume contests, and a massive costume ball. New Orleans is one of America’s spookiest towns so it’s an ideal setting for gay Halloween.
West Hollywood Halloween Carnaval - West Hollywood, CA
The West Hollywood Halloween Carnaval is one of the most famous and largest Halloween street parties in the world. Held on Santa Monica Boulevard, this event draws hundreds of thousands of attendees, many of whom are in elaborate costumes. As this event takes place in WeHo it’s guaranteed to be very gay.
High Heel Race - Washington, D.C.
This annual event is one of the most beloved LGBTQ+ Halloween traditions in the nation's capital. Participants, many of whom are drag queens, race down 17th Street in high heels, showcasing their best costumes. A street party follows the race. The race usually takes place the week before Halloween.
Salem's Haunted Happenings - Salem, MA
Salem’s Haunted Happenings is a month-long celebration of Halloween in the historic town known for its witch trials. While not exclusively LGBTQ+, the event attracts a large queer audience, especially for the costumed parades. No city on earth is more associated with Halloween. Hocus Pocus was set in Salem for a reason.