Bask in one last summer afternoon of music, drag and good food while supporting local LGBTQ+ services, Gayer Than a Picnic Basket returns Saturday, September 5, at Washington Park Stone Pavilion, with picnic lunch, lawn games, and community connection to fund year‑round WCGSA programmes.

Essential Takeaways

  • What: Annual fundraiser "Gayer Than a Picnic Basket" with live drag, music, lawn games and picnic lunch.
  • When and where: Saturday, 5 September 2026, noon–6:00 p.m., Washington Park Stone Pavilion.
  • Tickets and cost: Pre‑sale $30 via Eventbrite; day‑of $35 at check‑in. Picnic served 1:00–5:00 p.m.; soft drinks included, alcohol available for 21+.
  • Who benefits: Proceeds support Washington County Gay‑Straight Alliance, Inc.'s year‑round programming across ages.
  • Age rules: Attendees must be 18+; drinking restricted to 21+.

A sunny celebration with a serious purpose

Think of it as a picnic with purpose: sunshine, lawn games and drag performances all raise funds for local LGBTQ+ services. The event is designed to feel warm and welcoming, with the picnic lunch served from early afternoon so you can linger and chat. According to the event listing and organisers, every ticket helps keep WCGSA’s community work running through the year.

How a small group built something enduring

The Washington County Gay‑Straight Alliance began as an adult‑facilitated peer support group in 2005 and later formalised as a non‑profit, gaining 501(c)(3) status in 2014. Organisers say that humble origins, filling a real gap in local services, made the group focus on practical, inclusive programming. Over time the alliance has added senior support, trans and non‑binary discussion spaces, peer recovery groups and more, so this fundraiser supports a surprisingly broad slate of services.

What to expect on the day

Arrive ready for a lively afternoon: drag sets, live music and classic summer lawn games create a casual festival vibe. Picnic lunch is included with admission and served through the afternoon; soft drinks and water are free, while beer and wine are available for those 21 and over. Organisers advise buying pre‑sale tickets to help with food planning, but there will be limited day‑of sales at the check‑in table.

Choosing tickets and planning a group outing

If you’re bringing friends, buy tickets online early to lock in the $30 rate and help organisers estimate the lunch service. Pack a blanket or low chairs, sunscreen and perhaps a light jacket for later, the pavilion offers shade but evenings can cool down. For accessibility or volunteer questions, contact the organisers in advance; group bookings make the day more social and straightforward for everyone.

What this fundraiser means locally

Events like this do more than fill picnic baskets; they fund safe spaces and ongoing programmes that the community relies on. Kathy Cameron, board chair of WCGSA, highlights how ticket sales directly support year‑round outreach and services. For locals, it’s both a celebration and a practical way to ensure those services continue.

It's a small change that can make every summer afternoon mean a lot more.

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