New York City’s Boldest Celebration of Bears, Pride & Community

New York, NY – September 2025 – The furriest, beefiest, and most unapologetically fun queer festival in New York City is back! The 17th Annual Urban Bear NYC takes over the city from Thursday, September 18 through Sunday, September 21, 2025, bringing four days of events, nightlife, and community togetherness that culminate in the legendary Urban Bear Street Fair in the Meatpacking District.

Founded in 2008 by community leader Robert Valin, Urban Bear NYC has grown into a staple of queer culture—drawing thousands of bears, cubs, chubs, daddies, otters, and admirers from around the globe. Now in its 17th year, the festival continues its mission of body positivity, inclusivity, and celebration of LGBTQ+ identity, nightlife, and pride.

2025 Highlights Include:

• Opening Night Party @ FLEX (Hell’s Kitchen) – Thursday, September 18

• Urban Bear Meat & Greet Happy Hour @ Julius’ Bar, (West Village) – Friday, September 19

• The UnderBear Party @ Rockbar (West Village)– Friday, September 19

• Woofs, Wigs & Waffles: A Bearded Drag Brunch @ The Standard High Line Grill (Meatpacking)– Saturday, September 20

• Beefy Boys Afternoon Beer Blast @ TY’s Bar (West Village)– Saturday, September 20

• CAKE X Rhythm Revolución Official Dance Party @ G Lounge (Chelsea)– Saturday, September 20

• The 17th Annual Urban Bear NYC Street Fair on Little West 12th Street (Meatpacking)– Sunday, September 21 (1–7pm)

• Closing Night Mega Bear Blast @ Rockbar (West Village)– Sunday, September 21

With an expected attendance of 2,000+ in person and a digital reach of over 1.3 million, Urban Bear NYC continues to be one of the largest and most visible bear gatherings in the world. The Street Fair, the only bear block party in New York City, features live DJs, drag performers, food and beverage vendors, community organizations, and plenty of fur-friendly fun.

Urban Bear NYC also proudly supports the community, with partial proceeds benefiting the Callen-Lorde Community Health Center, which provides affirming healthcare for New York’s LGBTQ+ community.

“Urban Bear NYC has always been about more than just parties—it’s about connection, visibility, and joy,” says founder Robert Valin. “This year, we’re excited to bring together our community once again to celebrate our culture, our bodies, and our pride.”

Sponsorship & Media Partnerships

Urban Bear NYC is proud to partner with Bear World Magazine and welcomes returning sponsors including Rockbar, Julius’, TY’s, Flex, Brass Monkey, G Lounge, with additional brand partnerships to be announced. Sponsorship opportunities are still available, offering unparalleled access to a diverse, loyal, and high-spending LGBTQ+ demographic.

Event Information & Tickets

• Dates: September 18–21, 2025

• Locations: Multiple NYC venues + Little West 12th Street Street Fair

• VIP Weekend Passes: Limited $100 All-Access Passes available now

• Website: www.theurbanbear.com

Media Contact:
Robert Valin
Founder & CEO, The Urban Bear NYC
📧 info@theurbanbear.com

🌐 www.theurbanbear.com