The Patchogue, Babylon and NYC Pride Parades have marched along, but festivities on Fire Island have only gotten started, and we all know the best is saved for last. Happening a little later in the Pride Month arc, revelers at the Cherry Grove Pride Parade or the Invasion want to be dressed for the occasion, and the Imperial Court of New York was ready to help by holding their annual Drag Tag sale on Sunday, June 11.
The Ice Palace night club was transformed into a thrift shop festooned with ballgowns and evening dresses fit for royalty. Some were gently used, others donated from major department stores still had the tags on them – many were in large and tall sizes to accommodate the local clientele. There were also pumps available in a rainbow of pastel shades, costume jewelry that sparkled, wigs, stockings, and other lacy accessories with good deals to be had. Imperial Court volunteers were cheerful and accommodating. Even Miss Fire Island herself, the beautiful Zelina Duval, was on hand to assist.
As a full-figured biological female, there was even something right for me at the 2023 Drag Tag Sale. Guess the smile on my face said it all, because some shoppers at checkout cheered me on as I made my purchase – and people ask why I love living on Fire Island!
