Garage Party, an Indianapolis Tradition in the LGBTQ+ Community to Return and Celebrate 40 Years

Damien Center and Indiana Youth Group (IYG) are partnering with the Indy Bag Ladies, to bring back Garage Party, a beloved and fabulous Indianapolis dance party that will celebrate the LGBTQ+ community and raise funds for Damien Center and IYG, both organizations that have been pillars of support for the LGBTQ+ community. The event will be held on Saturday, April 6, 2024, from 8 p.m.-midnight at 416 Wabash Event Center, 416 E. Wabash St., Indianapolis.

Garage Party was created in 1984 by the Indy Bag Ladies, a group of grassroots fundraisers raising money and support for HIV/AIDS not-for-profits through drag show performances and events. The inaugural event was held at Market Square Arena’s parking garage and became an annual tradition for nearly 20 years as one of the largest mega-party/fundraisers in the Midwest.

“We’re excited to join forces with IYG and the Indy Bag Ladies to resurrect and commemorate this cherished event that began four decades ago as an electrifying dance party,” said Alan Witchey, president and CEO at Damien Center. “By uniting Indianapolis’ LGBTQ+ community, we not only pay homage to our roots but also celebrate our collective dedication to cultivating a dynamic, inclusive, and compassionate city where individuals living with HIV/AIDS receive unwavering support.”

"For the better part of four decades, IYG, Damien Center, and the Indy Bag Ladies have been collaborating to create safer spaces and make Indiana a more welcoming, inclusive, and affirming place for the LGBTQ+ community," said Chris Paulsen, CEO at IYG. "In a time where there are groups of people attempting to erase queer people from public life, it just makes sense for our three organizations to reignite our partnership and revive this iconic event. Garage Party will create space for queer individuals to come together for a night of fun and socializing while also directly supporting LGBTQ+ young people."

Garage Party tickets are on sale now. Guests can purchase a general admission ticket for $15 or VIP ticket for $50 that includes access to the VIP balcony and one drink ticket. To inquire about sponsorship or to purchase tickets, visit: https://damien.org/special-eve...

WHAT: Garage Party fundraising event to benefit Damien Center and IYG

WHEN: April 6, 2024

8 p.m. - Midnight

WHERE: 416 Wabash Event Center, 416 E. Wabash St., Indianapolis

TICKETS: General Admission - $15

VIP - $50 (Includes admission to the event and access to the VIP balcony + one drink ticket)

Tickets can be purchased at: https://damien.org/special-eve...

About Damien Center:

Damien Center is Indiana’s oldest and largest AIDS service organization and leads the effort to prevent the spread of HIV. The Center opened in 1987 and offers a one-stop-shop model of care that includes preventive, supportive, and medical services that empowers people in Central Indiana affected by HIV/AIDS to move forward each day with dignity so they may live abundant and productive lives. Damien Center believes passionately in the dignity and worth of every person who seeks their services and strives to be a safe and welcoming place so that no barriers separate people from the services they need to prolong and enhance their lives. For more information visit: http://www.damien.org or follow them on Twitter at @DamienCenter or like them on Facebook https://www.facebook.com/theda....

About Indiana Youth Group (IYG)

Indiana Youth Group (IYG) serves young people ages 12-24 who self-identify as LGBTQ+, as well as their allies. All programs and services are offered of charge. IYG strives to provide safer spaces to build self-confidence, explore individualism, and develop friendships within the LGBTQ+ community. IYG promotes a space of acceptance, equity, and restorative practices. We also advocate for LGBTQ+ youth in schools, the community, and through family support services.