They may be hibernating for the long, cold winter, but bears now have something to mark on their spring calendar.
Bearracuda, one of the world's biggest names in gay dance parties, is coming to Auckland on November 13.
The promoters have teamed up with Urge Bar to create a one-off event at 4:20 Bar on Karangahape Rd.
Bearracuda started in 2006 as an alternative dance and social space for bears and friends in San Francisco. It has expanded up and down the west coast of America and Canada ad is now making its first stop ever in the Southern Hemisphere.
The idea behind Bearracuda is to "create a friendly dance space for Bears, cubs and everything in between".
Promoter Matt Mikesell says it is a no-brainer to come to New Zealand, having already been here twice as a tourist.
"New Zealand is my favourite country in the world and it is a big honour to be throwing a party there. We'll be working hard to promote the party up and down the country for a big turnout. I have mates travelling from Oz and the West Coast of the US to attend, so we've got high hopes."
There will be an all-American DJ line-up, led by Florida-based spinner Francisco Guerra who has played at Sydney Mardi Gras, Bearcelona, MadBear Madrid, Oktobearfest Munich, Gay Days Disneyworld and New York City Pride.Joining him will be DJ 50 Pound Note who has played at Bearracuda events in Portland, Seattle, Vancouver and in his home town of San Francisco.
Urge co-owner Alan Granville says it is a huge honour to have Bearracuda come to NZ.
"Matt told us he made up his mind to bring his event to New Zealand after hearing all the positive reports of our first Bear New Zealand week. This will be a fantastic night, not just for our bears, but for everyone who wants to let their hair down."
The second Bear New Zealand week was recently confirmed for February 13-20, 2011.
