After a successful one-day event in Boston last April, the Big Queer Food Fest (BQFF) is set to expand into a week-long celebration of food and community.
The festival will take place from April 28 to May 4, featuring a variety of free and ticketed events.
Attendees can look forward to many tastings, dinners, soirees, and panels that culminate in a grand tasting event at the downtown Boston food hall High Street Place.
“We’re thrilled to expand BQFF into a week-long experience that shines a spotlight on the remarkable talent within the LGBTQIA+ food community and Boston’s dynamic culinary scene,” said Chad Hahne, co-founder of BQFF.
The festival aims to create a space for queer voices in food, celebrating creativity, resilience, and talent that often goes unnoticed.
Hahne emphasized that this year’s events are about more than just great food—they focus on visibility, connection, and community.
This year, the festival will feature culinary talents from both near and far, including Boston restaurateur and James Beard Award-winning chef Karen Akunowicz, restaurateur and Food Network fixture Tiffani Faison, and Tatiana Rosana of Para Maria at the Envoy hotel.
In addition to the culinary lineup, attendees can expect vibrant performances from drag artists, including RuPaul’s Drag Race favorite Jujubee, as well as influencers and authors.
Akunowicz shared her perspective on the importance of the festival, noting, “In an industry that has long been dominated by rigid hierarchies and outdated norms, queer chefs have often had to fight harder to be recognized, respected, and safe in their kitchens.”
She continued, “A queer food festival provides not only a platform for incredible culinary talent but also a space where joy, community, and authenticity are celebrated without fear.”
In a move that reinforces its commitment to social responsibility, the festival is partnering with local nonprofits such as the Boston Alliance of LGBTQ+ Youth, which offers health services and social support for queer youth, and Community Servings, which provides meals for Boston-area families and individuals facing chronic and critical illnesses.
David Lewis, BQFF co-founder, remarked, “Even in today’s climate, we’re finding power and resilience in the connections between food and community.”
He elaborated, “We’re building more than a festival—we’re creating a platform where food becomes a tool for storytelling, visibility, and connection.”
The week-long festival promises a diverse array of events, each with its unique focus and theme.
Kicking off on Monday, April 28, is the Opening Night Sizzle at Sweet Cheeks Q, hosted by Tiffani Faison.
Scheduled from 6 to 9 p.m. and priced at $50, this event will mark the festival’s official launch with food, drinks, and festive activities.
On Tuesday, April 29, Big Queer Beer Time will take place at Dorchester Brewing Co. from 6 to 9 p.m.
This free event—although RSVPs are encouraged—will offer attendees a chance to enjoy food from M&M BBQ, paired with a selection of beers, hard seltzers, and mocktails plus a sweet treat crafted by pastry chef Robert Gonzalez.
Wednesday, April 30, will feature the Big Queer Chefs Dinner at Bar Volpe, starting at 6 p.m. for VIP guests and 7 p.m. for dinner, with ticket prices ranging from $250 to $500.
Celebrity chefs Melissa King and Gabe Bertaccini will join Karen Akunowicz for an exquisite four-course meal at her renowned Italian restaurant.
VIP ticket holders will also get access to an intimate cocktail hour with the chefs prior to the dinner.
Thursday, May 1, welcomes guests to the Big Queer Tea Party at the Boston Tea Party Museum from 7 to 10 p.m., with tickets priced at $75.
In an exciting blend of themes, this event features drag performances by Jujubee, alongside wine, tea-infused cocktails, and high tea bites prepared by pastry chef Mai Nguyen.
On Friday, May 2, attendees can experience Serving the Look: Queer Identity in Food Photography & Storytelling at High Street Place at 5 p.m., free of charge—though RSVPs are required.
Pastry chef Justin Burke will engage in conversation with Boston-based food photographer Brian Samuels and stylist Catrine Kelty about capturing stories of community, history, and joy through food visuals.
They will also discuss the cookbook Potluck Desserts, inspired by Burke’s experiences at queer potlucks, with All She Wrote Books selling copies at the event.
Saturday, May 3, marks the first day of the Grand Tasting Weekend at High Street Place, commencing at 11:30 a.m. for VIP guests, with general admission starting at 1 p.m.
Prices range from $25 to $250 for this all-you-can-eat celebration featuring an array of plates, cocktails, sweets, and entertainment including DJs and drag performances.
Finally, on Sunday, May 4, the festival will conclude with the Grand Tasting Weekend Day 2: Drag Brunch Edition, also at High Street Place.
This lively event, starting at 11:30 a.m. for VIP guests and 1 p.m. for general admission, promises a festive atmosphere as attendees enjoy delicious food and captivating drag performances—remember to bring cash to tip the performers.
The Big Queer Food Fest is not only set to provide unforgettable culinary experiences, but also to foster a sense of belonging and celebration within the LGBTQIA+ community.
For a complete menu of events and more information, visit the BQFF website.
image source from：https://boston.eater.com/2025/4/18/24406895/boston-big-queer-food-festival-2025
