North American Bear Weekend began as an idea shared between a handful of Kentucky Bourbon Bear club members one evening at a member’s home.  With the void left by the end of  International Bear Rendezvous (IBR), we recognized a need in the Bear community to carry-on the tradition of recognizing the talented men across the country who had won local/state/regional bear/leather/bar titles.  And…the North American Bear Contest was born – granting an opportunity for those title holders to gain international recognition & praise within the community.

A little History

2012 Attendance:         120 Guests                2012 Contestants:          4                        Winner from NY

2013 Attendance:         279 Guests                2013 Contestants:         10                      Winner from KY

2014 Attendance:         427 Guests                2014 Contestants:           8                       Winner from CA

2015 Attendance:         553 Guests                2015 Contestants:         17                       Winner from KY

North American Bear Weekend has become a “reunion” for some attendees.  A time to come see familiar faces – and meet new friends.  With a 4-day, action-packed schedule of fun activities, entertainment, dance parties, pool parties, concerts, lots of food, drinks, vendors, and more – our event has quickly earned the loyalty and respect of many.  Aside from our fun activities, we also contribute 100% of our profits directly to local and/or national LGBT charities in the community.  North American Bear Weekend are proud to have donated nearly $500,000 to various LGBTQ+ charities since it began in 2012.

We hope you will consider attending our upcoming North American Bear Weekend.  With over 1,500 gorgeous bears, cubs, chasers, etc – mixed with our exciting event line-up – you are guaranteed to have a fun & memorable weekend that you’ll want to keep coming back to year-after-year.