OutSmart Magazine

The Feisty Collective Brings Queer Joy to the Heights

Kris Owens created The Feisty Collective to spotlight queer artists, build community, and offer a bright, affirming space where everyone can feel seen—and a little…

Paul Luna Brings Queer Energy and Honesty to Houston Hip-Hop

Houston’s Paul Luna blends hip-hop, soul, and poetic vulnerability in PHASES, a genre-bending new album that encourages listeners to live freely and love boldly.

Houston to Host 2025 Gay Softball World Series

The 2025 Gay Softball World Series returns to Houston this fall, led by the Montrose Softball League and the community figures who helped make it…

Artemis Hunter Serves Y2K Drag, Glitter, and Goddess Energy

Houston drag performer Artemis Hunter channels early 2000s vibes, queer pride, and trans joy into a powerful stage presence and community-driven artistry.

Patrick Sims Finds Power in Vulnerability Through Music and Community

Patrick Sims combines gospel roots, deep self-reflection, and bold storytelling in Love Notes, a new EP that redefines love through a lens of truth and…

News

National News

Lisa KeenAugust 12, 2025
0 517

New Obergefell Challenge Faces Legal and Political Hurdles

A fresh Supreme Court petition from Kim Davis targets Obergefell, but legal and political obstacles—including the Respect for Marriage Act—make…
Read More »
Community News

Staff ReportersAugust 12, 2025
0 105

JR’s, South Beach Houston Donate $10,000 to LGBTQ, Animal Charities

JR’s Bar and Grill and South Beach will give $10,000 to 10 nonprofits serving Houston’s LGBTQ community and animal welfare…
Read More »
National News

NewsroomAugust 12, 2025
0 74

Republicans Reprise Anti-Transgender Ads for the Midterms

GOP groups are recycling the “they/them” slogan in new attack ads, aiming at Democrats in North Carolina, Georgia, and Virginia…
Read More »
National News

Staff ReportersAugust 8, 2025
0 89

Air Force Blocks Retirement Benefits for Transgender Troops

The Air Force will deny early retirement to transgender service members with 15–18 years of service, forcing separation without benefits…
Read More »
Medicine

NewsroomAugust 5, 2025
0 126

Judge Pauses Termination of LGBTQ Health Research Grants

A judge pauses federal efforts to end LGBTQ health research funding, calling the terminations discriminatory.
Read More »

Queer Things to Do in Houston

August 7, 2025

Queer Things to Do in Houston This Weekend, August 7 – 10

Your weekly roundup of LGBTQ happenings.

Branded Community Content

Black Voices

Audubon StudioApril 21, 2025
164

Diamond Stylz Elevates Black Trans Stories Through Media and Advocacy

Activist and media trailblazer Diamond Stylz is empowering Black trans communities through storytelling, advocacy, and her award-winning podcast, Marsha’s Plate.
Read More »
Branded Community Content

Audubon StudioFebruary 11, 2025
94

Houston Federal Credit Union: Start Saving for Your New Car Today

Learn how to save for your next vehicle with expert tips and strategies from Houston Federal Credit Union.
Read More »
Branded Community Content

Audubon StudioDecember 5, 2024
619

Harnessing the Power of IV Glutathione for Inflammation Relief

Inflammation is a natural defense mechanism in our bodies, but when it becomes chronic, it can lead to various disorders…
Read More »
Branded Community Content

Audubon StudioNovember 15, 2024
259

Timely Care, Support Help HIV Patients Reach a Zero-Transmission Goal

Timely care and support help HIV patients reach a zero-transmission goal. Harris Health's READI program shows how to manage chronic…
Read More »

Features

Features

David ClarkeAugust 1, 2025
0 94

Paul Luna Brings Queer Energy and Honesty to Houston Hip-Hop

Houston’s Paul Luna blends hip-hop, soul, and poetic vulnerability in PHASES, a genre-bending new album that encourages listeners to live…
Read More »
Black Voices

Ian HaddockAugust 1, 2025
0 98

Patrick Sims Finds Power in Vulnerability Through Music and Community

Patrick Sims combines gospel roots, deep self-reflection, and bold storytelling in Love Notes, a new EP that redefines love through…
Read More »
Features

Zach McKenzieJuly 31, 2025
0 227

The Feisty Collective Brings Queer Joy to the Heights

Kris Owens created The Feisty Collective to spotlight queer artists, build community, and offer a bright, affirming space where everyone…
Read More »
Features

David ClarkeJuly 31, 2025
0 1,108

Houston to Host 2025 Gay Softball World Series

The 2025 Gay Softball World Series returns to Houston this fall, led by the Montrose Softball League and the community…
Read More »
Drag

Sam ByrdJuly 31, 2025
0 96

Artemis Hunter Serves Y2K Drag, Glitter, and Goddess Energy

Houston drag performer Artemis Hunter channels early 2000s vibes, queer pride, and trans joy into a powerful stage presence and…
Read More »
Arts & Entertainment

Brandon WolfJuly 22, 2025
0 1,686

Remembering Bubba McNeely: Houston’s One-Man Show and LGBTQ Icon

From drag stages to church choirs, Bubba McNeely lit up every room he entered. Friends reflect on his unmatched charisma,…
Read More »

Photos

Photos

Dalton DeHartAugust 12, 2025
0 85

2nd Annual Fort Bend County Pride Festival

The Fort Bend County Fairgrounds welcomed hundreds of attendees for the 2nd Annual Fort Bend County Pride Festival, a growing…
Read More »
Photos

Dalton DeHartAugust 6, 2025
0 220

Houston LGBTQ Indie Authors Book Fair

The Harris County LGBTQIA+ Commission and The Montrose Center hosted Houston’s first LGBTQ+ Indie Author Fair, featuring independent Houston-area LGBTQ…
Read More »
Photos

Dalton DeHartAugust 5, 2025
0 255

White Linen Night in the Heights 2025

Now in its 19th year, White Linen Night in the Heights drew an estimated 14,500 attendees for an evening of…
Read More »
Photos

Dalton DeHartAugust 5, 2025
0 410

A Benefit for Kofi at South Beach

Mistress Isabelle Brooks and Reign LaRue co-hosted a benefit show for veteran Houston drag queen Kofi. Proceeds from the evening…
Read More »
Photos

Dalton DeHartAugust 4, 2025
0 46

Main Street Theater Presents Pride Night for The 39 Steps

LGBTQ theatergoers and friends came out early to enjoy Main Street Theater’s SingOUT Cabaret Pride Night ahead of a sold-out…
Read More »
Photos

OutSmart StaffJuly 23, 2025
0 111

The T.R.U.T.H. Project Hosts A Vibe Called Rest Festival

The T.R.U.T.H. Project hosted its second A Vibe Called Rest Festival on Saturday, July 19, at MATCH (Midtown Arts &…
Read More »

Arts & Entertainment

Music

Connor BehrensAugust 1, 2025
0 271

Meet Four Queer DJs Shaping Houston’s Nightlife Sound

Houston’s queer nightlife is powered by DJs who do more than spin tracks—they create community. Meet four local artists using…
Read More »
Music

Connor BehrensAugust 1, 2025
0 126

DJ MLE Brings Afro-Caribbean Beats and Queer Joy to the Dance Floor

Blending her Afro-Panamanian roots with queer joy, DJ MLE creates spaces where BIPOC and queer communities feel joy, connection, and…
Read More »
Music

Connor BehrensAugust 1, 2025
0 235

DJ AJ Hernandez Turns Every Set Into a Celebration and a Safe Space

For 26 years, DJ AJ Hernandez has brought joy, energy, and unforgettable memories to queer spaces—spinning circuit and tribal house…
Read More »
Music

Connor BehrensAugust 1, 2025
0 235

DJ Chad Guidry Brings Smiles and Uplift With Every Set

Known for high-energy house and joyful beats, DJ Chad Guidry creates feel-good dance floors across Houston—fusing queer visibility with musical…
Read More »
Music

Connor BehrensAugust 1, 2025
0 73

DJ Ari Spins Community, Confidence, and Queer Joy in Houston

From house parties to headline gigs, DJ Ari has built a decade-long career on instinct, community, and unapologetic visibility in…
Read More »
Drag

Sam ByrdAugust 1, 2025
0 296

DragSpace Connects Houston-Area Fans to Local Performers and Shows

Launched by Colt V. Ables, DragSpace is a new digital hub that promotes Houston drag shows and performers, making it…
Read More »

Latinx Leaders

Art

OutSmart StaffJune 16, 2025
0 249

Midtown’s Pride Sign Wrap Honors Queer Icons Across Generations

A vibrant sign wrap in Bagby Park, created by artist Angel Albarran, transforms the Midtown sign into a tribute to…
Read More »
Houston Pride

Brandon WolfJune 2, 2025
0 244

Meet the 2025 Grand Marshals: Daron Yanes Perez

Male Identifying Grand Marshal Daron Yanes Perez 29, He/Him/El “Being named Grand Marshal means the world to me. It…
Read More »
Drag

Zach McKenzieMay 30, 2025
0 784

Lushious Massacr Is Living Her Realness Era—and ‘Dragvestigating’ Her Way Through It

Lushious Massacr, the Rio Grande Valley’s own viral drag diva, is using humor, Houston hustle, and homegrown pride to reclaim…
Read More »
Food + Drink

John NechmanApril 2, 2025
316

Marlén Mendoza Brews Bold Flavors at Ema HTX

Marlén Mendoza is a queer-identifying coffee roaster and co-founder of Ema HTX, a Michelin Bib Gourmand-awarded breakfast spot.
Read More »

Branded Community Content

Black Voices

Audubon StudioApril 21, 2025
164

Diamond Stylz Elevates Black Trans Stories Through Media and Advocacy

Activist and media trailblazer Diamond Stylz is empowering Black trans communities through storytelling, advocacy, and her award-winning podcast, Marsha’s Plate.
Read More »
Branded Community Content

Audubon StudioFebruary 11, 2025
94

Houston Federal Credit Union: Start Saving for Your New Car Today

Learn how to save for your next vehicle with expert tips and strategies from Houston Federal Credit Union.
Read More »
Branded Community Content

Audubon StudioDecember 5, 2024
619

Harnessing the Power of IV Glutathione for Inflammation Relief

Inflammation is a natural defense mechanism in our bodies, but when it becomes chronic, it can lead to various disorders…
Read More »
Branded Community Content

Audubon StudioNovember 15, 2024
259

Timely Care, Support Help HIV Patients Reach a Zero-Transmission Goal

Timely care and support help HIV patients reach a zero-transmission goal. Harris Health's READI program shows how to manage chronic…
Read More »
Branded Community Content

Audubon StudioOctober 22, 2024
216

Castle Air Conditioning & Heating: Exceptional Service Since 1975

Castle A/C & Heating offers high-quality HVAC services, including air conditioning repair and replacement.
Read More »
Branded Community Content

Audubon StudioOctober 21, 2024
196

Understanding Rolfing: The Art and Science of Structural Integration

Rolfing, developed by Dr. Ida Rolf, aims to better organize the body's structure and function.
Read More »

OutSmart Community

Our Music Issue

Music

Connor BehrensAugust 1, 2025
0 271

Meet Four Queer DJs Shaping Houston’s Nightlife Sound

Houston’s queer nightlife is powered by DJs who do more than spin tracks—they create community. Meet four local artists using…
Read More »
Music

Connor BehrensAugust 1, 2025
0 126

DJ MLE Brings Afro-Caribbean Beats and Queer Joy to the Dance Floor

Blending her Afro-Panamanian roots with queer joy, DJ MLE creates spaces where BIPOC and queer communities feel joy, connection, and…
Read More »
Music

Connor BehrensAugust 1, 2025
0 235

DJ AJ Hernandez Turns Every Set Into a Celebration and a Safe Space

For 26 years, DJ AJ Hernandez has brought joy, energy, and unforgettable memories to queer spaces—spinning circuit and tribal house…
Read More »
Music

Connor BehrensAugust 1, 2025
0 235

DJ Chad Guidry Brings Smiles and Uplift With Every Set

Known for high-energy house and joyful beats, DJ Chad Guidry creates feel-good dance floors across Houston—fusing queer visibility with musical…
Read More »
Music

Connor BehrensAugust 1, 2025
0 73

DJ Ari Spins Community, Confidence, and Queer Joy in Houston

From house parties to headline gigs, DJ Ari has built a decade-long career on instinct, community, and unapologetic visibility in…
Read More »

AAPI Leaders

Asian American and Pacific Islanders

John NechmanMay 30, 2025
0 394

Luis Chen Brings Flavor, Visibility, and Heart to Houston’s Asian LGBTQ Scene

From Taiwan to South America to Houston’s Bellaire Asian District, Luis Chen has built a vibrant life of activism and…
Read More »
Art

Rich ArenschieldtMay 29, 2025
0 166

ISHIDA Contemporary Dance Company Offers World Premieres at Asia Society

Nationally recognized ISHIDA Dance Company returns to Houston with a bold new program, featuring a world premiere by Brett Ishida…
Read More »
Asian American and Pacific Islanders

John NechmanMay 2, 2025
406

Houston’s Henry Lu Brings the Heat on Top Chef Canada

At JŪN in Houston, chef Henry Lu blends Asian heritage, global influences, and personal storytelling—bringing bold, boundary-pushing cuisine to the…
Read More »
Asian American and Pacific Islanders

Olivia Flores AlvarezMay 2, 2025
289

Bibi Xia Creates Spaces for Sapphic Joy and Belonging in Houston

Bibi Xia is reshaping Houston’s LGBTQ+ scene with joyful, intentional events at Pearl Bar, creating space for sapphic women, queer…
Read More »

PRIDE 2024 🏳️‍🌈🏳️‍⚧️

Photos

Dalton DeHartJuly 18, 2024
252

Rainbow on the Green

Rainbow on the Green, Discovery Green’s annual Pride event, was especially festive this year with KPRC2’s Derrick Shore as the…
Read More »
Photos

Victor ContrerasJuly 11, 2024
363

DNVRMX ‘Everything’s Bigger’ Pride Festival 2024

Houston’s Pride Weekend: Everything’s Bigger Pride Festival, hosted by DNVRMX’s Marti Frieson at NOTO Houston, was a sold out event.…
Read More »
Photos

OutSmart StaffJuly 10, 2024
198

The Big Queer Quiz 2024

The Big Queer Quiz 2024, Grace Place’s annual Pride Month fundraiser, was a huge success. This year, over 300 guests came…
Read More »
Photos

Dalton DeHartJuly 8, 2024
219

Pride Night 2024 with the Houston Astros

The Houston Astros celebrated Pride Night 2024 at Minute Maid Stadium with a special pre-game reception honoring the LGBTQ community…
Read More »
Cover Story

Connor BehrensJuly 3, 2024
1,197

Pride Galveston: A Celebration of Love and Acceptance

Terry and Jamie Fuller-Waymire‘s ongoing mission to foster love and inclusivity on the Island.
Read More »
Photos

Dalton DeHartJuly 2, 2024
635

Pride Houston 365: 2024 Festival

Thousands of Houstonians came out for Pride Houston 365’s Pride Festival at Houston City Hall. This year’s main stage host…
Read More »

Trans Visablility

National News

NewsroomAugust 12, 2025
0 74

Republicans Reprise Anti-Transgender Ads for the Midterms

GOP groups are recycling the “they/them” slogan in new attack ads, aiming at Democrats in North Carolina, Georgia, and Virginia…
Read More »
National News

Staff ReportersAugust 8, 2025
0 89

Air Force Blocks Retirement Benefits for Transgender Troops

The Air Force will deny early retirement to transgender service members with 15–18 years of service, forcing separation without benefits…
Read More »
Politics

Texas TribuneAugust 5, 2025
0 108

Texas Senate Panel Advances New Bathroom Bill Targeting Trans People

The Texas Senate State Affairs Committee has approved SB 7, a new version of the so-called bathroom bill that would…
Read More »
Film/DVD

Olivia Flores AlvarezAugust 1, 2025
0 82

Vera Drew’s The People’s Joker Gets the Last Laugh

In The People’s Joker, Vera Drew turns her life story into a sharp, surreal parody—coming soon to Museum of Fine…
Read More »

Queer in Galveston

Community News

Brandon WolfJuly 3, 2025
0 183

Galveston Pride Weekend 2025

Pride Galveston returns once again in late August 2025 to the island south of Houston. What started as a single…
Read More »
Community News

David ClarkeJuly 3, 2025
0 216

Lindsey White Leads with Love at United Way of Galveston

From disaster recovery to Born Learning Trails, Lindsey White’s work with United Way of Galveston is rooted in love—for her…
Read More »
Black Voices

Ian HaddockJuly 3, 2025
0 689

Galveston Native Returns Home to Uplift Community Through Beauty and Healing

After years of transformation and care work in Atlanta and NYC, Franklin Berry returns to Galveston to open a salon,…
Read More »
Community News

Connor BehrensJuly 3, 2025
0 525

Pride Center Galveston Builds a Safe, Social Space for LGBTQ Community

Navy veteran Brandt Molitor founded Pride Center Galveston to offer community, housing, and healing for LGBTQ islanders—creating a space grounded…
Read More »

Black Voices

Black Voices

Ian HaddockAugust 1, 2025
0 98

Patrick Sims Finds Power in Vulnerability Through Music and Community

Patrick Sims combines gospel roots, deep self-reflection, and bold storytelling in Love Notes, a new EP that redefines love through…
Read More »
Black Voices

OutSmart StaffJuly 16, 2025
0 141

A Vibe Called Rest Festival Centers LGBTQ BIPOC Wellness

The T.R.U.T.H. Project’s one-day festival promotes joy, rest, and wellness for LGBTQ BIPOC individuals and their allies through curated programming,…
Read More »
Black Voices

OutSmart StaffJuly 9, 2025
0 115

Equality Texas to Host Inaugural Barbara Jordan Garden Party

Equality Texas will hold its first Barbara Jordan Garden Party on July 27, celebrating LGBTQ advocates and honoring the late…
Read More »
Art

Brandon WolfJuly 3, 2025
0 581

Nonbinary Houston Artist Wyntress X’ion Shines Through Art and Advocacy

Wyntress X’ion, a Houston native and nonbinary artist, blends vibrant art with queer advocacy, reflecting on their identity journey and…
Read More »
Black Voices

Ian HaddockJuly 3, 2025
0 689

Galveston Native Returns Home to Uplift Community Through Beauty and Healing

After years of transformation and care work in Atlanta and NYC, Franklin Berry returns to Galveston to open a salon,…
Read More »
Black Voices

Brandon WolfJune 2, 2025
0 224

Distinguished Grand Marshal: Brandon Mack

Distinguished Grand Marshal Brandon Mack 41, He/Him “I am incredibly honored to be named a Grand Marshal. It represents being…
Read More »

Food + Drink

Books

Marene GustinJune 3, 2025
0 166

Pride Picks: Books, Bakes, Brews, and Bold Flavors

Celebrate Pride Month with some of Houston's noteworthy authors, bakers, and brewers bringing bold stories, flavors, and community spirit to…
Read More »
Asian American and Pacific Islanders

John NechmanMay 2, 2025
406

Houston’s Henry Lu Brings the Heat on Top Chef Canada

At JŪN in Houston, chef Henry Lu blends Asian heritage, global influences, and personal storytelling—bringing bold, boundary-pushing cuisine to the…
Read More »
Food + Drink

Olivia Flores AlvarezApril 2, 2025
415

Montrose Country Club: Houston’s New Hub for Dining, Poolside Fun, Nightlife

The new Montrose Country Club is a luxurious social hub with a 65-foot pool, upscale dining, and vibrant nightlife.
Read More »
Cover Story

John NechmanApril 2, 2025
604

Corey Scranton Brings Heart to Houston Dining

Barcelona Wine Bar brings the spirit of Las Ramblas to Westheimer Road.
Read More »
Food + Drink

John NechmanApril 2, 2025
316

Marlén Mendoza Brews Bold Flavors at Ema HTX

Marlén Mendoza is a queer-identifying coffee roaster and co-founder of Ema HTX, a Michelin Bib Gourmand-awarded breakfast spot.
Read More »
Black Voices

Ian HaddockApril 2, 2025
297

Boogie’s Boilin’ Serves Up Love, Seafood, and Southern Hospitality

Denita Forges and Whitne Dilliehunt are partners in love, parenting, and business.
Read More »
Food + Drink

David ClarkeApril 2, 2025
157

Beloved Queer Bar Star Sailor Closes, Leaves Lasting Houston Legacy

Although Star Sailor, Houston's beloved queer-owned eatery and bar, closed due to financial struggles, its impact on the community remains…
Read More »
Food + Drink

Karen DerrApril 2, 2025
379

John Frels Builds Community Through Houston Heights Foodies Group

John Frels, a successful mortgage broker in Houston, is the admin of the popular Facebook group Houston Heights Foodies.
Read More »

Allyship in Action

Allyship in Action

Sarah GishAugust 4, 2025
0 164

Ally PRIDE is Important Too

Allyship is not a trend or a season. OutSmart contributor Sarah Gish reflects on a lifetime of standing with LGBTQ…
Read More »
Allyship in Action

Brandon WolfJuly 31, 2025
0 481

Local Allies Share Their Paths to LGBTQ Advocacy and Support

To mark International Allyship Day, OutSmart spotlights three straight Houstonians who have taken meaningful, long-term actions to support the LGBTQ…
Read More »
Allyship in Action

Brandon WolfJune 2, 2025
0 177

Meet the 2025 Grand Marshals: Rep. Jon E. Rosenthal

Ally Grand Marshal Rep. Jon E. Rosenthal 61, He/Him/His “I’m really amazed and honored to be named Ally Grand Marshal…
Read More »
Allyship in Action

NewsroomApril 24, 2025
108

Pedro Pascal Wears “Protect the Dolls” Shirt in Support of Trans Women

Pedro Pascal showed support for trans women at the London premiere of Thunderbolts by wearing a “Protect the Dolls” shirt,…
Read More »

Gayest & Greatest 2023

Cover Story

OutSmart StaffOctober 3, 2023
5,382

OutSmart’s 2023 Readers’ Choice Awards Winners

OutSmart magazine is excited to once again honor our community’s best and brightest—individuals and businesses who were this year’s top…
Read More »
Gayest & Greatest

Jenny BlockOctober 4, 2023
2,395

Breaking Boundaries

Pooja Lodhia’s unlikely path to becoming an advocate in the media.
Read More »
Cover Story

Ryan LeachOctober 4, 2023
1,232

Houston’s TV Gem

For six years, Derrick Shore has co-hosted Houston Life on Houston’s KPRC 2.
Read More »
Gayest & Greatest 2023

Dalton DeHartOctober 20, 2023
957

OutSmart’s 26th Annual Gayest & Greatest Readers’ Choice Awards – Part I

Nearly 500 guests gathered at South Beach Houston for the 2023 Gayest & Greatest Readers’ Choice Awards celebration, presented by…
Read More »
Gayest & Greatest 2023

Guest ContributorOctober 24, 2023
772

OutSmart’s 26th Annual Gayest & Greatest Readers’ Choice Awards – Part III

Houston’s “Gayest and Greatest” gathered at South Beach Houston for this year’s celebration of the community’s favorite personalities and businesses.…
Read More »
Gayest & Greatest 2023

Dalton DeHartOctober 20, 2023
700

OutSmart’s 26th Annual Gayest & Greatest Readers’ Choice Awards – Part II

Close to 500 guests rubbed elbows with 2023 winners and finalists at the 2023 Gayest & Greatest Reader’s Choice Awards…
Read More »

Food + Drink

June 3, 2025

OutSmart at 30

Arts & Entertainment

Sam ByrdNovember 14, 2023
223

The Triumph of Persistence

Chloe Knox claims Miss Gay Texas crown on the fourth attempt.
Read More »
Black Voices

Sam ByrdJune 2, 2023
527

Commercial Success

Blackberri shines again in Lizzo's YITTI ad campaign.
Read More »
Black Voices

Sam ByrdMay 3, 2023
200

Trailblazing Journey

Harrison Guy continues to break barriers at City Hall and in the arts.
Read More »
OutSmart at 30

Zach McKenzieApril 5, 2023
338

An OutSmart Magazine 30th Retrospective

We look back on the last 30 years and recognize how far we’ve come—and how far we still have to…
Read More »
Arts & Entertainment

Ryan LeachApril 4, 2023
297

Shattering Barriers

Jessica Zyrie graced the cover of OutSmart magazine in February 2019. As a Black trans woman and model, Zyrie uses…
Read More »
COVID-19 Coverage

Ryan LeachApril 4, 2023
497

Prioritizing Mental Health

Nicholas Olaverria speaks out on his experience during the pandemic.
Read More »

Columns

MoneySmart

Grace S. YungAugust 1, 2025
0 165

How the ‘One Big Beautiful Bill’ Could Affect Your Finances

The sweeping 'One Big Beautiful Bill' brings changes to taxes, retirement, healthcare, and estate planning. Here's what it means for…
Read More »
Drag

Sam ByrdJuly 31, 2025
0 96

Artemis Hunter Serves Y2K Drag, Glitter, and Goddess Energy

Houston drag performer Artemis Hunter channels early 2000s vibes, queer pride, and trans joy into a powerful stage presence and…
Read More »
SignOut Horoscope

Lilly RoddyJuly 31, 2025
0 1,195

August 2025 Horoscope: Celestial Reset

August begins with Mercury retrograde and continues a pattern of celestial tension. The month favors introspection over new ventures, with…
Read More »
Black Voices

OutSmart StaffJuly 16, 2025
0 141

A Vibe Called Rest Festival Centers LGBTQ BIPOC Wellness

The T.R.U.T.H. Project’s one-day festival promotes joy, rest, and wellness for LGBTQ BIPOC individuals and their allies through curated programming,…
Read More »
MoneySmart

Grace S. YungJuly 3, 2025
0 360

Medicaid and Long-Term Care

As care costs rise and insurance remains inaccessible to many, Medicaid may offer essential long-term support—if you know how to…
Read More »
Business

Brandon WolfJuly 3, 2025
0 408

Legacy Builder: Tim Martinez’s Lifelong Commitment to Houston’s LGBTQ Health

After two decades with Legacy Community Health, Tim Martinez reflects on its growth from a local clinic into a statewide…
Read More »

Lifestyle

Features

David ClarkeJuly 31, 2025
0 1,108

Houston to Host 2025 Gay Softball World Series

The 2025 Gay Softball World Series returns to Houston this fall, led by the Montrose Softball League and the community…
Read More »
Wedding Guide

David ClarkeJuly 31, 2025
0 93

Even in Crisis, Pamela and Malissa Dunnings Show Love’s Strength

Pamela and Malissa Dunnings planned a beach wedding—but a medical emergency led them to marry in front of first responders,…
Read More »
National News

NewsroomJuly 23, 2025
0 62

US Olympic and Paralympic Committee Bans Transgender Women in Women’s Sports

The U.S. Olympic and Paralympic Committee will enforce a Trump administration executive order banning transgender women from women’s sports, aligning…
Read More »
Black Voices

OutSmart StaffJuly 16, 2025
0 141

A Vibe Called Rest Festival Centers LGBTQ BIPOC Wellness

The T.R.U.T.H. Project’s one-day festival promotes joy, rest, and wellness for LGBTQ BIPOC individuals and their allies through curated programming,…
Read More »
International News

NewsroomJuly 10, 2025
0 98

Caster Semenya Wins Partial Legal Victory in Human Rights Court

Caster Semenya won a partial victory in her fight against track’s testosterone rules as a European court ruled Switzerland failed…
Read More »
National News

NewsroomJuly 9, 2025
0 54

Trump Administration Sues California over Transgender Athlete Policies

The Trump administration has sued California over policies allowing transgender girls to compete on girls’ sports teams, a move LGBTQ…
Read More »

Wigging Out

Drag

Sam ByrdJuly 31, 2025
0 96

Artemis Hunter Serves Y2K Drag, Glitter, and Goddess Energy

Houston drag performer Artemis Hunter channels early 2000s vibes, queer pride, and trans joy into a powerful stage presence and community-driven artistry.
Read More »
July 3, 2025

Malibu Blake Von Schweetz Serves Cake by Day, Drag Realness by Night
June 2, 2025

Rachel B*tchface Is the Queen of Expression and Elegance
April 30, 2025

Wigging Out: Padma Azz Brings the Brass, Sass, and a Touch of Class
April 1, 2025

Wigging Out with Iris Seymour, Visionary Drag Queen

Wedding Guide

Wedding Guide

David ClarkeJuly 31, 2025
0 93

Even in Crisis, Pamela and Malissa Dunnings Show Love’s Strength

Pamela and Malissa Dunnings planned a beach wedding—but a medical emergency led them to marry in front of first responders,…
Read More »
Wedding Guide

David ClarkeJuly 3, 2025
0 110

A Cosplay Meet-Cute, a Gas Station Proposal, and a Dream Wedding

Kal and Bree’s love story began at a cosplay convention and led to a handfasting ceremony in a castle, complete…
Read More »
Houston Pride

Dalton DeHartJune 23, 2025
0 733

“Proudly Ever After” Celebration at the Montrose Center

In celebration of the tenth anniversary of the historic U.S. Supreme Court decision recognizing same-sex marriage nationwide, the Montrose Center…
Read More »

Pride in the Media

Arts & Entertainment

Brandon WolfJuly 31, 2025
0 189

Deborah Moncrief Bell Reflects on Decades in Houston LGBTQ Media

For nearly five decades, Deborah Moncrief Bell has shaped Houston’s LGBTQ media—spanning print, radio, listservs, and podcasts—while spotlighting voices from…
Read More »
Arts & Entertainment

David ClarkeMay 1, 2025
1,034

Ernie Manouse and Frank Billingsley Bring Fresh Energy to Hello, Houston!

Houston media icons Ernie Manouse and Frank Billingsley join Celeste Diaz Schurman to host Hello, Houston!—a new daily radio show…
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Front Page A&E

Connor BehrensNovember 6, 2024
435

Jay Michaels: A Voice of Authenticity and Connection

Jay Michaels, a beloved radio personality, shares his passion for media and his journey in the industry.
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Pride 2024

Zach McKenzieJune 3, 2024
225

Stellar Storyteller

Everyone has a unique story to tell, and Baytown native David Clarke is devoted to making sure they get told.…
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Health and Wellness

Black Voices

OutSmart StaffJuly 16, 2025
0 141

A Vibe Called Rest Festival Centers LGBTQ BIPOC Wellness

The T.R.U.T.H. Project’s one-day festival promotes joy, rest, and wellness for LGBTQ BIPOC individuals and their allies through curated programming,…
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Health & Wellness

Rich ArenschieldtJuly 8, 2025
0 311

FDA Approves First Twice-Yearly PrEP for HIV Prevention

Lenacapavir, the first FDA-approved, twice-yearly injectable PrEP for HIV prevention, shows 96% efficacy and offers unprecedented convenience, marking a major…
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Health & Wellness

NewsroomJune 20, 2025
0 147

What Is Gender-Affirming Care? Your Questions, Answered

Gender-affirming care, supported by every major U.S. medical group, includes mental health support, medication and more. Experts warn political efforts…
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Health & Wellness

NewsroomJune 18, 2025
0 172

FDA Approves Twice-a-Year Injection for HIV Prevention

The FDA has approved a groundbreaking biannual injection for HIV prevention, offering near-total protection and new hope for ending the…
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Health & Wellness

NewsroomMarch 25, 2025
111

Trump Administration Cuts Funding for HIV Research Grants

The Trump administration's decision to cut funding for HIV research grants could lead to a surge in AIDS deaths and…
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Health & Wellness

NewsroomMarch 25, 2025
114

Trump Administration Cancels LGBTQ Health Grants

The Trump administration has canceled at least 68 grants focused on LGBTQ health, totaling nearly $40 million. The grants were…
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Health & Wellness

NewsroomMarch 24, 2025
94

Researchers Accuse US Government of Censoring Data on Sexual Orientation

US government tried to erase sexual orientation from scientific findings, say California researchers. They withdrew their paper to avoid censorship.
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Health & Wellness

NewsroomMarch 3, 2025
91

Judge Blocks Trump’s Funding Order Targeting Transgender Youth Care

Federal judge blocks Trump order threatening funding for institutions providing gender-affirming care for transgender youth. Judge finds the order violates…
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Community

Features

Zach McKenzieJuly 31, 2025
0 227

The Feisty Collective Brings Queer Joy to the Heights

Kris Owens created The Feisty Collective to spotlight queer artists, build community, and offer a bright, affirming space where everyone…
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Art

Zach McKenzieJuly 3, 2025
0 778

Galveston Couple Shapes a Creative Life Through Clay, Community, and Love

Galveston’s Erica and Kristen Williams turned a shared love of art, community, and each other into THrō Ceramics, a creative…
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Beyond the Binary

Brandon WolfJune 2, 2025
0 149

Meet the 2025 Grand Marshals: Nakita Bowman

Gender Non-Binary/Gender Non-Conforming Grand Marshal Nakita Bowman 41, She/He/They “Being named a Grand Marshal is both an honor and…
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Black Voices

Ian HaddockJune 2, 2025
0 500

Drag University Returns to Houston to Uplift a New Generation

Drag University returns nearly 20 years after its launch, offering Houston’s rising drag stars skills in performance, advocacy, and HIV…
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