Queer AF in Denim 2026

From RuPaul to Project Runway, the Queer Met Gala of Massachusetts brings stars to Worcester for a night of drag, fashion, art, and joy.

The Queer Met Gala of Massachusetts returns on Friday, Sept. 18, 2026, at Mechanics Hall in Downtown Worcester.

Doors: 7PM
Show: 8PM

The Queer Met Gala of Massachusetts is back! Queer AF, the Art+Fashion show fundraiser benefitting Love Your Labels, returns to Mechanics Hall in Worcester on Friday, Sept. 18, 2026, and invites you to be Queer AF in Denim.

Denim is more than just a fabric. It is a record of labor, resistance, reinvention, and style. This textile’s history begins with exploitation and enslaved labor. Rugged and transcendent, the garment became a symbol of resistance, solidarity with the working class, and youthful rebellion. From patchwork to embellishments, from indigo to acid wash, this textile embodies our uniqueness and authenticity. 

Queer AF uplifts LGBTQIA+ artists with a dazzling display of fashion, drag, dance, and music. Our 2026 show will be a multitude of textures. At Queer AF in Denim, designers will imagine new tales to tell with this storied fabric, and shades of blue will pop on the runway. Drag and performance artists will shine on stage. Our home-grown runway features dozens of local models strutting in bespoke looks. Join us and let your imagination and creativity drive — we encourage you to take a well-loved, worn-in pair of jeans to the sewing machine for an evolution. What is your story, and how can you weave it into one of the world’s most beloved fabrics? 

If you need a starting point for inspiration, consider the four denim archetypes Queer AF is exploring this summer:

• The Renegade: This punk-rocker or outsider doesn’t play by the rules
• The Throwback: This character is all about vintage charm, reinventing storied looks
• The Shapeshifter: A style chameleon, this persona knows fashion transcends norms and binaries
• The Truthteller: This historian honors the realities and complexities of denim and the people who wear it

The magic of Queer AF is in presenting ourselves authentically: Every body is beautiful and worthy of the spotlight. Get ready to turn up and turn out for the ultimate night of queer joy, art, and community. Stay tuned and follow @thequeeraf on Instagram this summer as we announce headlining talent, drag performers, designers, and more for the show on Friday, Sept. 18. 

Queer AF is open to everyone 13 and older. Teens 13 to 17 can enjoy the show from the Center Balcony section with a parent or guardian present. 

All show proceeds benefit Love Your Labels, a Worcester-based nonprofit that supports queer and trans youth and community by creating safe, welcoming spaces for people of all backgrounds to explore identity and celebrate who they are through creativity and fashion.

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Age
Queer AF is a 13+ event. Teens ages 13 to 17 must be accompanied by a 21+ family member or guardian. Our Family Section (13+) is located in the Center Balcony. Runway and GA seats are 18-21+. Accessibility accommodations will be made for anyone attending Queer AF.

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Accessibility Information
Love Your Labels will provide accessibility accommodations for anyone attending Queer AF. During the ticket-purchasing process, please ensure your accommodation needs are selected before checkout. If at any time you need to update your requirements, please reach out to experience@loveyourlabels.org.

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$145 
Front Row Runway VIP (21+)
The ultimate night out experience! Treat yourself to the front row of Queer AF 2026! These seats get you the closest look at this year’s fashion and performances, and include private cash bar service.

$85
Runway VIP (21+)
See all the fabulous looks up close in our runway VIP section. These seats include private cash bar service.

$40
General Admission (Floor Access) (18+)
General Admission is perfect for those who want to mix and mingle while taking in all the sights and sounds of the runway.

$20
College Student GA (Floor Access) (18+)
Worcester is a college town and Queer AF would love to see students from the city and across Massachusetts and New England at the show. College students must present their college ID at the door. Use code STUDENT to unlock the discount.

$0 – $50
Center Balcony (13+)
Enjoy a bird’s eye view of all the runway action from the Center Balcony — perfect for soaking in every detail. This section is for guests of all ages and includes an option for youth attendance.

Accessibility Note: This section is not wheelchair accessible. If a member of your party requires accessible seating, we’re happy to make arrangements in an accessible area on the floor. Please indicate accessibility needs during your ticket purchase process. If you have questions or concerns, please reach out to dani@loveyourlabels.org.

Youth Ticket Option (Ages 13–17):

• Free tickets available for youth ages 13–17 with the purchase of at least one paid adult ticket (21+).
  
• Limit 4 youth tickets per adult/order. Additional Adult with youth tickets must be placed in a separate order. 
  
• Adults are responsible for the youth they bring. This is not a supervised or alcohol-free area.
  

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Mechanics Hall is proud to participate in the Card to Culture program through the Massachusetts Cultural Council.
Limited number of DISCOUNTED GA and Balcony tickets available, limit of 4 per order. Use promo code QAF26 to redeem. If code does not work, all tickets have been claimed. For eligibility requirements, please see Mechanicshall.org/cardtoculture