Start Your Engines! The Ultimate Guide to RuPaul’s Drag Race Season 18 Viewing Parties
The library is open, the engines are revving, and the “she-mergency” is officially upon us! RuPaul’s Drag Race Season 18 premieres tonight, Friday, January 2, 2026, and if there is one thing we know for sure, it’s that Drag Race is a team sport.
Watching the premiere at home is fine, but nothing beats the energy of a packed house screaming when the first “Queen of all Queens” walks into the Werk Room. Whether you are in the Windy City or the Mile High City, here is your roadmap to the best viewing parties in town.
🏳️🌈 Chicago: The North Halsted Experience
Chicago’s Boystown (North Halsted) is the undisputed heavyweight champion of Drag Race viewing.
Roscoe’s Tavern
If you want the “official” feel, Roscoe’s is your destination. They are famous for their star-studded panels and the “Roscoe’s View” YouTube videos.
- The Lineup: Hosted by Naysha Lopez, Batty Davis, and Kara Mel D’Ville.
- Special Guests: For the premiere, they’ve tapped season heavyweights Mistress Isabelle Brooks and Willam.
- The Vibe: High energy, high production, and plenty of “tea” spilled during commercial breaks.
- Check the Deets: Roscoe’s Tavernhttps://roscoes.com
Sidetrack
Looking for a massive screen and a “no cover” policy? Sidetrack is the move.
- The Lineup: Hosted by Veronica Pop and Boy J.
- The Schedule: They start with “TGIF Show Tunes” from 3 PM to 7 PM to get you in the mood, followed by the main event at 7 PM.
- Why here? The “Big Screens” at Sidetrack are legendary—you won’t miss a single lash or a stray thread.
- Check the Deets: Sidetrack Events Calendar
🏔️ Denver: Supporting Our Own
The Denver scene is absolutely electric this year, largely because we have local royalty to root for: Nini Coco is representing the 303!
ReelWorks (PlayHaus Takeover)
This isn’t just a viewing; it’s a massive homecoming celebration for Denver’s own Nini Coco.
- The Lineup: Hosted by The Breakfast Club (Raquelle C. Schelle, Banana Splits, Petty Patty, and Dr. Zackarina).
- The Plan: Doors open at 5 PM, with the episode starting at 6 PM MST. Stick around for the “Meet & Greet” and a disco house afterparty that goes until 2 AM.
- Check the Deets: ReelWorks Denver
Sie FilmCenter
For a slightly more “cinema” feel, head over to the Sie FilmCenter.
- The Vibe: FREE viewing in the lounge hosted by Talia Tucker and Holly Wood Hills.
- The Perks: Drink specials, trivia, and prizes. It’s a great spot if you want to focus on the artistry of the show.
🥂 How to Make the Most of Your Night
Before you head out, keep these tips in mind to ensure your night is a “Shantay you stay”:
- Arrive Early: For spots like Roscoe’s or Sidetrack, the “regulars” claim their seats hours before the 8/7c airtime.
- Support Local: These bars often have no cover, so show your love by tipping your bartenders and the local drag performers who entertain you during the breaks.
- Check Socials: Things change! Follow your local bar on Instagram for last-minute guest announcements or sell-out alerts.
Where are you watching the premiere tonight? Tell us who you’re rooting for in the comments!
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