“In light of the events that happened in Orlando, this year’s Pride theme is extremely appropriate. I know it might sound trivial, but if we can’t have fun at Pride, then terror wins.”
—Heklina
One of San Francisco’s most well-known drag queens, Heklina, certainly knows who’s hosting the best parties on Pride weekend. What better source for Pride veterans and newbies alike to get the hookup from? This week, I sat down with her to pick the brain under that fabulous wig — and to hear her picks for the best Pride party options for any and every stripe.
Sarah: You’ve been called “Queen of Queens” and “SF Royalty.” How did you arrive at such a place of pride?
Heklina: I’ve been called that? Really? I’m flattered. I just do what I do. People also call me a legend and an institution, but that just means I’m old!
Sarah: What have you been up to in 2016?
Heklina: I’ve really just been focusing on Oasis, my new-ish nightclub that I opened last year. It’s keeping me a busy girl.
Sarah: What do think about this year’s Pride theme, “For Racial and Economic Justice”?
Heklina: In light of the events that happened in Orlando, this year’s Pride theme is extremely appropriate. I know it might sound trivial, but if we can’t have fun at Pride, then terror wins.
Sarah: What headlines will emerge from Pride this year?
Heklina: Remembering the victims in Orlando.
Sarah: How have you seen Pride evolve over the 25 years you’ve been in the city?
Heklina: Of course, I can say it’s become much blander, corporate and mainstream as there has been more acceptance. On the flip side of that, more acceptance was needed, so I guess you can say it has evolved in a natural way.
Sarah: Any tips for first-time attendees?
Heklina: Sunscreen! Water! Sensible shoes!
Sarah: What was the best thing you ever wore to Pride?
Heklina: The best thing I ever wore was my pink dress by Mr. David when I was Pride grand marshal in 2004.
Sarah: Where are the best places to pee?
Heklina: In Civic Center, you’ll need to use the porta-potties, or be like everyone else along the parade route and use the bathrooms in Starbucks, etc. Just don’t pee in the street, please!
Sarah: What Pride events are you involved with this year?
Heklina: I’ll be performing at Cal Academy’s Pride NightLife party on Thursday the 23rd. On Saturday the 25th (Pink Saturday), I host Mother: With Cazwell at Oasis. On Sunday I will be hosting the Frameline Film Festival closing-night party.
Sarah: Best party for a newbie to attend?
Heklina: Juanita More’s legendary Pride Party is the best intro for the newbie!
Sarah: If you could go to only one party this year, what would it be?
Heklina: Hard French Hearts Los Homos, because I’m excited to see Psychic TV!
Sarah: Best party on a budget?
Heklina: Civic Center on Pride Sunday after the parade. Great people-watching and entertainment on the main stage. And I believe it’s free, or maybe they ask for a small donation at the gates.
Sarah: Best sober party?
Heklina: Soberfest 2016.
Sarah: Best party for celebrity sightings?
Heklina: I would say the Frameline Film Festival closing party. The cast of Looking will be there, but good luck getting a ticket to that.
Sarah: Best party for EDM?
Heklina: Shenanigans at Oasis on Friday the 24th. If you want a thump-thump-shirtless-boys party, this is it!
Sarah: Best place for impromptu parties?
Heklina: The Castro on Pink Saturday. But be careful!
Sarah: Party with the best eats?
Heklina: Gary Virginia and Donna Sachet’s Annual Pride Brunch, benefiting the Positive Resource Center.
Sarah: Party with the best people-watching?
Heklina: The Pride parade itself. Go grab a spot along the route on Market Street and join the party.
Sarah: Best party for networking?
Heklina: Official SF Pride VIP Party.
Sarah: Best after party?
Heklina: After parties on Pride day itself are tricky, as EVERYONE is exhausted by the time Sunday night rolls around. If you still have the energy, go to this …
