Castro’s Juneteenth Block Party: Lil Nas X Outdoor Screening & Drag Show

Submitted by the Event Organizer

Curtain up and light the lights – and let them be neon in rainbow hues. Hosted by the arts nonprofit Frameline, (www.frameline.org) the San Francisco International LGBTQ+ Film Festival (Frameline48) kicks off its 48th edition with a first-of-its-kind outdoor special event and film screening in front of its “Forever Home,” San Francisco’s Castro Theatre (429 Castro Street at Market).

On Wednesday, June 19 beginning at 7pm, Frameline48’s Juneteenth Opening Night Film and Block Party will coincide with the official re-lighting of the Castro Theatre’s iconic neon blade sign and marquee, as part of Another Planet Entertainment’s restoration and renovation efforts. The event is free and open to the public. Attendees are encouraged to bring lawn chairs.

Headlined by D’Arcy Drollinger of Oasis Arts, San Francisco’s Drag Laureate, the evening will be filled with live performances, music, and film. Frameline48’s first-ever Juneteenth Block Party will feature dynamic drag performances from Reparations, including Drag Queen of the Year Pageant winner Nicki Jizz, Afrika America, and Mudd the Two Spirit; live music by the San Francisco Pride Band and DJ Die Wies; and a special screening of Lil Nas X: Long Live Montero shown on big screens outside the Castro Theatre. Following the live pre-show, the film screening will begin at 8:20pm.

This block party and screening is FREE and open to the public. All ages are welcome. There are no entrance gates and no tickets are required. RSVP HERE to receive updates and help us track the attendance of this historic event!

Location

400 block of Castro Street between Market & 18th Street. The screens will be at both Castro & 17th and Castro & 18th. The stage will be located at Castro & 18th.

Schedule

7:00-8:20pm Pre-Show
Drag performances from Reparations including, Nicki Jizz, Afrika America, and Mudd the Two Spirit, with live tunes from DJ Die Wies, festival remarks from Frameline and local community leaders. Plus, a surprise reveal presented by D’Arcy Drollinger!

8:20-10:00pm Film
Free screening of Lil Nas X: Long Live Montero

Seating

Seating is not provided for enjoying the film on Castro Street. Please bring small beach chairs. Tall chairs and furniture are not allowed because they will make it harder for others to see. There will be an ADA section for those in wheelchairs.

Remember to bring blankets and wear layers. June in the Castro doesn’t always feel like summer!

Food/Drink

Meals, snacks, and non-alcoholic drinks will be available to purchase from local Castro businesses. We will also be selling popcorn. Be sure to pick up a Castro Passport in order to receive discounts from Castro businesses and be entered to win prizes!

Accessibility

There will be ADA access. Reach out directly to operations@frameline.org for any accessibility or mobility questions, concerns, or requests. The box office line also provides assistance: 415.552.5580.

Disclaimer: Please double check event information with the event organizer as events can be canceled, details can change after they are added to our calendar, and errors do occur.