#FIRSTLOOK: FIERCE AND FABULOUS EXPO COMING TO TORONTO JUNE 6, 2026

A bold new era for queer artistry arrives with the launch of Fierce and Fabulous Expo , Canada’s premiere large-scale drag and music convention, taking place June 6, 2026, at the Metro Toronto Convention Centre. Created in support of the You Do You Foundation, Fierce and Fabulous Expo will bring together drag, music, performance, and community for a vibrant cultural gathering designed to celebrate queer creativity on a national stage. Music artists from the You Do You Foundation Mentorship Program will be featured at The Expo, supported by TD Bank Group.

Conceived as a dynamic platform for both established icons and emerging talent, Fierce and Fabulous Expo is committed to creating a safe and affirming space where Canadian queer artists can perform, showcase their work, and connect with audiences, industry professionals, and fellow creatives. The event also aims to raise awareness of You Do You Foundation’s mandate to support artists facing systemic and personal barriers due to their life circumstances, helping them access mentorship, resources, and meaningful opportunities in the arts.

“I created Fierce and Fabulous Expo because our community deserves a space where creativity, culture, and opportunity collide. As a queer artist, DJ and producer, I know how hard it can be for creators from our community to access resources and platforms that truly celebrate who we are” said Velvet Code, Founder of You Do You Foundation and Fierce and Fabulous Expo. “This Expo is about lifting each other up, while also supporting the You Do You Foundation and its mission to empower emerging artists with the tools they need to thrive. My hope is that Fierce and Fabulous Expo becomes a catalyst for connection, visibility, and a stronger foundation for the future of entertainment for our community.”

The inaugural artist line-up features an extraordinary roster of artists from So Fierce Music, Canada’s premiere 2SLGBTQ+ Music Label as well as global drag superstars including: Brooke-Lynn Hytes, Nicky Doll, Utica, Silky Nutmeg Ganache, Pangina Heals, Venus, Gisele Lullaby, Tynomi Banks, Justin ABit, Seyonce Knows, KAOS, and Oceane Aqua-Black. They will be joined by rising performers Dahlia Doll, Rina MorningStar and Chloe Jane, alongside You Do You Foundation Mentorship Program alumni Lady Nova, Brayo Bryans, Noah Jemm, and Oliver Klozoff – artists who embody the Foundation’s commitment to nurturing talent and building pathways to sustainable creative careers.

Guests can expect electrifying drag and live music performances, the “Lavender Lane” fashion runway spotlighting cutting-edge designers, and interactive moments including meet-and-greets and photo opportunities with performers. Beyond entertainment, the Expo also features its “Love & Learn” series – a curated lineup of panels and workshops exploring diversity, inclusion, and the evolution of queer arts.

Beyond live performances and programming, Fierce and Fabulous Expo will also welcome exhibitors and corporate sponsors from across Canada. Businesses, brands, and organizations aligned with creativity, diversity, and community empowerment are encouraged to participate and help shape an inclusive, high-impact experience for attendees.

Applications are now open for sponsors and exhibitors who are interested in taking part in the Fierce and Fabulous Expo. Apply HERE.

Early Bird tickets are now available through April 30th. Updates on the agenda and performer line-up can be accessed through the official website.

More than a convention, Fierce and Fabulous Expo represents a movement – one that celebrates self-expression, artistic excellence, and community care. Through performances, exhibitions, interactive experiences, and meaningful connections, the Expo is poised to become a defining cultural event that uplifts queer voices while advancing the life-changing work of the You Do You Foundation.

Together, Fierce and Fabulous Expo and the You Do You Foundation are helping to build a future where queer artists across Canada can be seen, supported, and celebrated – unapologetically and on their own terms.

Location:

Metro Toronto Convention Centre

255 Front St W, Toronto, ON M5V 2W6

ABOUT FIERCE AND FABULOUS EXPO
Fierce and Fabulous Expo is Canada’s premier drag and music convention, bringing together performers, creatives, and fans for a large-scale celebration of queer artistry, performance, and community. Through live shows, exhibitions, and interactive programming, the Expo provides a national platform for both established icons and emerging talent while fostering connections across the creative industries.

ABOUT YOU DO YOU FOUNDATION
The You Do You Foundation Mentorship Program with support by TD Bank Group will provide 2SLGBTQIA+ (Lesbian, Gay, Bisexual, Trans, Queer, Two-Spirit, Intersex, Asexual) and QBIPOC (Queer Black, Indigenous, People of Colour) music artists and musicians struggling with mental wellness, addiction and financial hardship with the skills and opportunities that are essential to advancing their careers. Over this 6-month program, we will provide six emerging 2SLGBTQIA+/BIPOC musical artists experiencing homelessness and/or struggling with their mental health with professional development workshops in all aspects of the music industry, including music production, songwriting, grant writing, life skills to ensure their continued engagement and success in the music industry.

ABOUT SO FIERCE MUSIC

So Fierce Music is a new kind of music & entertainment company for artists marginalized and disadvantaged by the mainstream music industry because of age, race, gender, or sexual identity. Founded by international award-winning DJ/producer Velvet Code, So Fierce Music is a Canadian HQ’d music and entertainment company producing 2SLGBTQ+ content through music production, digital media, and events, empowering artists, producers, songwriters, and DJs around the world. So Fierce Music is already making a significant impact in the launch of 2SLGBTQ+ artists’ careers by providing a platform of events to showcase their talent. In 2025, So Fierce Music will be accelerating to a live concert series at venues across Toronto. The company’s main objective is to become the premier global music and entertainment platform for diverse and underrepresented artists.

Highlights from the Expo:

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#FIRSTLOOK: PRIDE GUIDE WITH THE DRAKE HOTEL, FIERCE & FABULOUS EXPO

The most colourful, joyous, and vibrant time of the year is almost here: Pride Month in Toronto. And in one of the proudest and most inclusive cities in the world, The Drake Hotel and Fierce & Fabulous Expo are coming together to create the ultimate lineup of celebrations, experiences, and unforgettable moments to enjoy Pride in full swing. 

FIERCE & FABULOUS EXPO:

Kicking off Pride Month in Toronto, Fierce & Fabulous Expo is a vibrant celebration of 2SLGBTQ+ creativity, culture, and community. Proudly supported by Pride Toronto and the Toronto Arts Council, the event will bring together more than 5,000 attendees for a dynamic day of iconic performances, art, entertainment, and connection.

Guests can expect appearances from fan-favourite queens from Canada’s Drag Race, including Toronto winners The Virgo Queen and Van Goth, alongside a curated lineup of local talent, vendors, creators, and community organizations. The morning will begin with an official Pride Month kick-off, including opening remarks, a ribbon-cutting ceremony, and media photo opportunities, setting the tone for an exciting and meaningful start to Pride celebrations across the city.

Date: Friday, June 6, 2026

Time: 9:00AM-6:00PM

Location: Metro Toronto Convention Centre — North Building, Hall A

Address: 255 Front Street West, Toronto, ON

THE DRAKE HOTEL:

Mermaid Ball

Explore the depths of the TRENCH with all the eerie wonders it holds. The Mermaid Ball is diving deep for it’s 8th year. Enter a world stranger than you have ever imagined, yet one you have somehow seen in your dreams since childhood. This 2 night event takes place in The Drake Hotel’s Underground where it will be transformed by the decor of Zirco Fish into an eerie coral reef nestled at the deepest point of the Mariana Trench. This Albino Reef gives explorers a fantastical glimpse into the sensory, explosive environment that has technically passed on but continues to yield stories of brewing magic. Costumes continue to be strongly encouraged as your participation adds so much to the immersive experience.

Dates: May 22 + 23

Time: 7:00PM-12AM

Location: The Drake Hotel

Pride Hotel Package Reservation link for the Pride Hotel package HERE. 

With a full lineup of programming to celebrate all month long, from Drag Brunch (and Drag Bingo), the legendary Mermaid Ball, ShikShook andChippy NonstopPride parties, and a special Thank You For Listening Pride edition, the Drake is known to be, and proud to be a safe and inclusive space for our 2SLGBTQI+ guests, team members, and communities. This month, be our guest and book the Stay Proud Hotel package where your stay during Toronto Pride month includes ALL the perks and a guaranteed good time, day + night. Available all month long with their, you’ll get a $40 daily Uber credit to move through the city, a $50 food + drink credit, and a few morning-after extras: like slippers and a sleep mask. We’ll throw in a couple of photobooth vouchers, too, because some moments deserve proof. Raise a glass, hit the dance floor, sleep in, repeat.The Drake is a proud ally and a member of World Rainbow Hotels and an official Rainbow Registered hospitality partner with the CGLCC, setting standards for building a culture of inclusivity and a commitment to inclusive leadership to ensure our 2SLGBTQI+ customers feel safe, welcomed, and accepted.