PLUMP ATL Continues to Build Connection and Community for Bears of Color

17th September 2024 John Hernandez

Since 2019, PLUMP ATL is Atlanta’s only monthly party catering to bears of color and those that love them. It takes place every 2^nd Wednesday of the month at Felix’s Atlanta and on the Saturday night of major holiday weekends throughout the year. As the only themed party for bears in the city, PLUMP ATL gives attendees a chance to showcase their creativity and serve fun and sexy looks every single month.

The party was founded and is currently hosted by Buddha Lotus, a native New Yorker now living in Atlanta who has been a part of the bear and leather communities for nearly a decade. Besides working on PLUMP, he is also the Vice President of Onyx Southeast and Mr. World Bear 2022.

“PLUMP ATL was founded in 2018 to create a space for fellowship among queer men of color who may not feel welcome in traditional spaces” Buddha said. “PLUMP ATL recognizes the harsh body image standards that exist and seeks to provide a haven for those who have felt “othered”.”

With the help of resident DJ Myles Tha Sixteenth, Buddha creates a welcoming atmosphere geared towards genuine connection.

“We are a party meets game night event. We have games like Uno, Jenga, Connect Four & Mortal Combat available for play. We believe that with the help of games we have more opportunity for connection. We have great music and a backyard kickback style vibe. And although we focus on nonsexual activities, PLUMP ATL is a consent-forward space welcoming all body types, gender identities and expressions.”

The monthly themes add another layer of fun and engagement to this unique bear gathering. September’s theme was “Yams” where partygoers were encouraged to dress in orange while October’s theme for Halloween will be “Angels & Demons”. As always, dressing in the theme is encouraged but absolutely not required.

Another aspect of this event that is unique to many other bear events is that there is no cover.

“Plump ATL is solely funded by our sliding scale suggested donations from our patrons” Buddha tells us. “We believe in the empowerment of our community and fight against the poor shaming culture. We believe that everyone deserves access to a good time. PLUMP ATL will remain a coverless event, and we appreciate our supporters.”

Now that is a mission statement we can get behind! Buddha adds “PLUMP ATL remains committed to growing with the needs of our communities and supporting the most marginalized to ensure that we remain responsive.”