The Big Gay Pageant will be held on Friday, June 19th from 7pm - 9pm at Alliant Energy Center in Madison, WI. Contestant arrival time for the event is 6:00pm. Contestants will be competing for the title of Ms./Mr./Mx. Big Gay Market.
The Big Gay Market is a Madison-based business focused on connecting LGBTQ+/allied businesses and artists to the larger community. For the first time, we are hosting a pageant in collaboration with Cynthia Mooseknuckle and Cowphusia Milkhym.
A maximum of 5 performers will be chosen to compete in the Big Gay Pageant. One first place winner and one runner up will be chosen. The first place winner will be awarded $150 in cash, a $50 donation to a not-for-profit organization of the performer’s choice, a sash, and a jewelry set donated by Cynthia Mooseknuckle.
The winner will be offered a performance slot in the following day’s drag show at The Big Gay Market. The winner will be offered opportunities in at least two of the following events through The Big Gay Market:
Fall Market
Holiday Market
Spring Market
Big Gay Prom
Big Gay Pride 2027
The runner up will be awarded $100 in cash, a $50 donation to a not-for-profit organization of the performer’s choice, and offered any gigs that the winner declines.
This contest is open to all genders and abilities. The ideal Ms./Mr./Mx. Big Gay Market represents the values and spirit of The Big Gay Market through their creativity, authenticity, passion for their community(s), and an ability to facilitate a sense of belonging for artists and attendees of the market through their art and presence.
If you are interested in applying to compete in the Big Gay Pageant, please complete the following application. Applications will close May 15th at 11:59pm CST. Individuals selected to compete will be notified via email by May 20th. Individuals waitlisted or not selected will also be notified via email by May 20th.
Before applying, please review the official pageant rules and categories here: 2026 Pageant Rules
