7 Ways to spend Labor Day Weekend 2023 in USA

June 08 2023

by Lachlan

Everyone loves Labor Day weekend in the States. It's a three-day weekend which means one extra sleep-in, the potential to recover from a Friday night bender on the town fully, and a great chance to finally see that friend you've been taking a raincheck on for the last three months. But along with all of this, there's also a heap of gaytastic parties and events which happen over this weekend. What better occasion to get out that brand new pair of shoes and get mingling? From Austin to Provincetown, we've bundled the best gay events for Labor Day weekend 2023 in the USA. Which one will you be seen at?

What? Southern Decadence 2023

Where? New Orleans, Louisiana 

When? August 31 - September 4

_{©Flickr/Infrogmation of New Orleans}

2023 sees the 51stth edition of the iconic Southern Decadence Festival, held every year in New Orleans over the Labor Day weekend. The streets of New Orleans' gayborhood, the French Quarter, will come alive for five days. Expect nightly circuit parties, big-name DJs, and plenty of dancing. The event will culminate in a festive parade on Sunday at 2 pm, which will wind its way through the French Quarter, finishing up at the crossroads of Bourbon and St. Anne Streets. Learn more about Southern Decadence.

What? Splash Days 

Where? Austin, Texas

When? August 31 - September 1

 _{©FB/Splash Days}

Splash Days is a not-for-profit event that benefits the LGBTQ community, and it is arguably Austin's largest and best gay dance party weekend. Over two days, you can expect various water-related parties at different venues throughout the city. On Sunday, there will be 'Get Wet,' a lake party at popular gay hangout Hippie Hollow. It will take place on a barge from 10 am to 4 pm, so bring your sexiest pair of swimmers and get ready to take a dip. You can also look forward to drag brunches and circuit parties in the city - we said Austin reaches new heights this Labor Day weekend! Take a look here for more info on Splash Days.

What? Burning Man

Where? Black Rock Desert, Nevada

When? August 27 - September 4

_{©Flickr/Marco Verch}

How do you like the sound of rounding up your best mates, heading into Nevada's desert, and being a part of a community of self-expression and self-reliance? Welcome to Burning Man. Although not explicitly a gay festival, the incredibly relaxed vibes at Burning Man continue to attract members of the LGBTQ community each year. The theme of this year's festival is Animalia, which will celebrate the animal world and ask you to recognize your place in it. You can expect art installations and theme camps over the eight days. Truly a unique way to spend the Labor Day weekend, which will undoubtedly be worthwhile. Learn more about this unique experience here.

What? Key West Brewfest

Where? Key West, Florida

When? August 31 - September 4

As the first eight editions of Key West Brewfest were so popular, this festival is back by popular demand this year for its ninth installment. While Key West Brewfest is not specifically a gay festival, Key West continues to be a popular LGBTQ destination thanks to its highly welcoming attitude and plentiful gay-owned and operated businesses. Over five days, the Brewfest will feature pool parties, beer seminars, beer brunches, and more. The festival's signature event is the Key West Brewfest Tasting Festival, which will take place on Saturday. Prepare your stamina and taste buds for this one; it's going to be hectic. Find out more here.

What? White Party 2023

Where? Provincetown, Massachusetts

When? September 2, 2023

Provincetown White Party is an annual event held in Provincetown, Massachusetts, a popular LGBTQ+ destination. It's a celebration of inclusivity, self-expression, and community spirit within the LGBTQ+ community. The party often features live entertainment, music performances by renowned DJs, dancing, and a festive atmosphere. This year, the event will be held at Delft Haven by the Bay - and naturally, the dress code is white! See more here. 

What? Sacramento Rainbow Festival & Street Fair

Where? Sacramento, California

When? September 4, 2023

_{©FB/Sacramento Rainbow Festival}

The Sacramento Rainbow Festival and Street Fair is an annual event celebrating the local LGBTQ+ community. The festival is centered around a lively street fair, which takes place in the heart of Sacramento. The festival offers a wide range of entertainment and activities. There are typically live music performances by local and nationally recognized LGBTQ+ artists and DJs spinning energetic beats. See more here. 

What? LeiBear Weekend 

Where? Honolulu, Hawaii  

When? Awaiting dates

If you like the idea of a last-minute island getaway for the Labor Day weekend, head to Hawaii for LeiBear Weekend. Hosted by The Aloha Bears, this five-day party is not for the faint-hearted. You can look forward to a sunset pool party on Friday night, the Lei-a-Bear dance party at Atlas Honolulu on Saturday, an open bar booze cruise on Sunday, and plenty of other activities to help you make new friends and create some incredible memories. If you think this event has your name written all over, find out more here.

Are you looking for a more relaxing Labor Day weekend? Why not book a stay in one of these gorgeous LGBTQ+ hotels on the West Coast, USA?

Cover Image: ©FB/Sacramento Rainbow Festival