Beloved LGBTQ+ Garage Party to return in April

Local organizations are teaming up to bring back Garage Party, the once beloved Indy-based fundraiser and dance party celebrating the LGBTQ+ community.  

“We’re excited to join forces with IYG and the Indy Bag Ladies to resurrect and commemorate this cherished event that began four decades ago as an electrifying dance party,” Alan Witchey, president and CEO at the Damien Center, said in a statement. “By uniting Indianapolis’ LGBTQ+ community, we not only pay homage to our roots but also celebrate our collective dedication to cultivating a dynamic, inclusive, and compassionate city where individuals living with HIV/AIDS receive unwavering support.” 

Garage Party was originally created in 1984 by the Indy Bag Ladies — a collection of grassroots fundraisers that raised money and support for HIV/AIDS not-for-profits by way of drag show performances and various other events. The event quickly grew in popularity, becoming a 20-year tradition as one of the largest party/fundraisers in the Midwest.   

This Spring, the Damien Center and Indiana Youth Group will carry on the tradition of Garage Party by partnering with Indy Bag Ladies to engage and celebrate the community as well as raise funds for both organizations, which remain pivotal to the LGBTQ+ community. 

“For the better part of four decades, IYG, Damien Center, and the Indy Bag Ladies have been collaborating to create safer spaces and make Indiana a more welcoming, inclusive, and affirming place for the LGBTQ+ community,” Chris Paulsen, CEO at IYG, said in a statement. “In a time where there are groups of people attempting to erase queer people from public life, it just makes sense for our three organizations to reignite our partnership and revive this iconic event. Garage Party will create space for queer individuals to come together for a night of fun and socializing while also directly supporting LGBTQ+ young people.”  

Garage Part is set for Saturday, April 6, 2024, from 8 p.m. to midnight at the Wabash Event Center, 416 Wabash St. Tickets are $15 for general admission and $50 for VIP, which includes access to the VIP balcony and one drink ticket. For more information and to purchase tickets, visit damien.org/special-events.