Bambino's set to host Pride Month kickoff with return of drag brunch
May 27-The frequently sold-out experience known as Bambino's Drag Brunch is returning once again, this time to kick off Pride Month with some sequins and sass.
The June 7 event aims to unite Downtown Vallejo in a showcase of artistry and LGBTQ+ communities through high-energy entertainment coupled with bottomless mimosas and tasty breakfast foods.
Last year, Bambino's hosted a similar sold-out event in June, with the support of Free Music Collective (FMC) co-founders Justin Calonia and Jeremy "Remy" Smith-Batha. The event marked FMC's first introduction to the world of drag.
Its success sparked a second event in July and additional shows later in the year, including the addition of the competitive segment, "SLAY 4 YOUR STAY."
The returning stars of the show, however, are hosts and local drag queens Sadie C. Sparkles and Miss Cherry Lane.
"Their energy is fantastic," said Bambino's owner Ismael Palacio. "They always have something new, they're very innovative - always creative."
He added that the two hosts consistently bring in fresh local talent at each event, further expanding the reach of the local drag community.
On top of that, "they are always very positive," said Palacio, which is one of the reasons why the restaurant continues to look to the pair to host the regularly sold-out shows.
Alongside Calonia - who also DJs the event under the alias "Jucy JC" - Palacio said the trio makes "a really good team."
Since the event's dazzling debut nearly a year ago, its popularity has continued to grow alongside its loyal following.
"It's been great, really great," Palacio said. "People always leave with a smile on their face. And we have returning customers who are buying tickets. You can see a lot of the same faces all the time, which does tell you something about our show."
The Drag Brunch, now a monthly staple, has featured everything from lip-sync battles to seasonal themes, including Halloween-inspired costumes in October. Nearly every show since its launch has sold out.
Palacio credits Vallejo's diverse community and longstanding LGBTQ+ presence for the event's continued support. Its popularity has stretched beyond Solano County, drawing attendees from as close as San Francisco, reaching as far as neighboring states.
The event also remains the city's only drag brunch of its kind, helping fill what was previously an untapped niche in Vallejo's entertainment scene.
"Vallejo is a beautiful city, and we need to bring more business to downtown," said Palacio. "Times are tough right now, so we need to be united and bring people together."
The event is set for Saturday, June 7, with doors opening at 10 a.m. and the show beginning promptly at 11 a.m.
A limited number of early bird tickets are available now through Eventbrite. Attendees are encouraged to secure seats early, as demand is expected to be high for the signature Pride Month celebration.
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