Naturally, Ward knew virtually every bartender, DJ, and patron at the club, and was greeted by almost everyone we passed. With a crowded dance floor, great DJs, an outdoor patio, and weekly parties, Rain is Austin’s favorite spot to dance the night away. Later in the night, we headed to Rain on 4th, which is conveniently located next door. Every death drop, sashay, and wig reveal was met with roaring applause from the crowd. Despite a smaller crowd than the later show attracts, the audience was loving every minute of it. Ward whispered into my ear that early-evening shows like this are how they break into the scene, giving them a space to hone their skills and solidify their on-stage persona. When we arrived, the bar was doing its 9pm early show, which tends to be made up of newer queens. From karaoke nights to talent contests and more, drag queens and kings host a variety of shows and events every night of the week. It’s known for its various drag shows that take place throughout the week. Ward said this is one of Austin's oldest gay bars and has been around for over 25 years. Ward wanted to show me around 4th Street, and our first stop was the bar where she began her drag career, Oilcan Harry’s.
LaGina Harry outside Oilcan Harry, one of Austin's oldest LGBTIQ+ bars © Annie Ray
