For many gay and lesbian students, high school dances are not their idea of a welcoming or fun evening.
“In the school community it’s hard to find other gays since there are people who don’t accept us,” junior Christopher Bullock said. “Its nice to escape and get away to our own section.”
Fortunately, in Austin there is an event that caters to these students. Queer Prom is just around the corner this Saturday, starting at 7 p.m. and lasting until midnight.
This year’s prom theme is masquerade; prom goers can either bring people own mask or make one at the event. The prom will have a section where you can build a mask themself.
“ My friend Deandra and I are going to Queer Prom this year, ” senior Jessica Strange said. “(We are) expecting to see the drag show, where men dress up as women and it’s like models so they’re competing to see who’s the better drag.”
Strange and other students are planning to go to Queer Prom as a safe place to express themselves and find others with the same interests. There they can express themselves freely without oppression.
“(It’s a chance to see) all the different people and get to know your type of people in the community and its really fun,” senior Blaise Corona said.
The first two hours is open to the public. After 9 p.m. the event is only for 12 to 18 years olds so they can create their own prom experience.
Tickets are suggestion donations, which are $5 to $10 at the door. Money will pay for prom expenses.
Free food and drinks will be provided at the event. There will also be a photographer on site capturing moments of the prom.
A dance competition will also be expected so you can show off your moves on the dance floor.
“Last year we had a little over 200 people come,” said, Natalie Ornelas.” This year we expect around 200 to 300.”
Since 2010 Whole Foods has been the primary sponsor of Queer Prom. This event is being held on the terrace of its downtown location on South Lamar Boulevard.
“It’s a different scene. It has a lot of different people out there,” Strange said.  “ I guess I’m only use to seeing that kind of people at school and you see it outside of school in a different community and different setting.”