Get Ready to Roar: The Urban Bear Returns for Its 17th Year
Get ready, New York—the bears are back and bolder than ever. The 17th Annual Urban Bear NYC is set to take over the city from Thursday, September 18, through Sunday, September 21, 2025, bringing four days of pure, unapologetic celebration to the city. From dance floors to street fairs, this is the furriest, beefiest, and most fun queer festival of the year.
What started as a small gathering in 2008 by community leader Robert Valin has grown into a global phenomenon. Urban Bear NYC now draws thousands of bears, cubs, chubs, and admirers from all over the world. For 17 years, the festival has championed a powerful mission: promoting body positivity, inclusivity, and a fierce pride in LGBTQ+ identity. It’s more than just a party; it’s a movement
Your Guide to Urban Bear 2025
This year’s event is packed with a lineup designed for every kind of bear and ally. Here are some of the can’t-miss highlights:
- Opening Night @ FLEX kicks off the weekend on Thursday, September 18.
- Get social at the Urban Bear Meat & Greet Happy Hour at the historic Julius’ Bar on Friday.
- Later that night, things heat up at The UnderBear Party at Rockbar.
- On Saturday, enjoy a brunch with a twist at Woofs, Wigs & Waffles: A Bearded Drag Brunch at The Standard High Line Grill.
- Then, get ready for a party that’s all about body positivity with the CAKE X Rhythm Revolución Official Dance Party at G Lounge on Saturday night.
The weekend’s main event is the Urban Bear Street Fair on Sunday, September 21. As the only bear block party in NYC, it’s a one-of-a-kind experience featuring live DJs, drag performers, and a wide array of vendors and community organizations. With more than 2,000 people expected to attend and a digital reach of over 1.3 million, it’s one of the largest bear gatherings in the world.
Beyond the Party: Community and Connection
According to founder Robert Valin, Urban Bear NYC has always been about more than just fun. “It’s about connection, visibility, and joy,” he says. “This year, we’re excited to bring our community together once again to celebrate our culture, our bodies, and our pride.”
Urban Bear NYC also gives back, with partial proceeds benefiting the Callen-Lorde Community Health Center, which provides affirming healthcare for New York’s LGBTQ+ community.
So mark your calendars and get ready to roar. Whether you’re a long-time bear or new to the community, this is the perfect opportunity to celebrate who you are in a space that’s all about freedom and fun.
For more information and tickets, visit www.theurbanbear.com.
