"Eroticism is not sex; it's sexuality transformed by the human imagination." This party is a way to celebrate our identities and sexuality in a friendly, safe environment by dressing up in outfits and costumes that make us feel good, sexy or playful, powerful or creative. There is no nudity or sex allowed at this public event. A cocktail dress or a shirt and jacket are appropriate for a party. Costumes are encouraged. Some people may choose to reveal more skin than others. Some may choose to wear pasties to conceal their nipples or a thong to cover their genitals. In other words, No Nips and No Bits are to be exposed. We will have drag and burlesque performers who will exude eroticism through reveals and erotic dance. The Erotic Ball will be an opportunity to exercise our imaginations!

We will serve appetizers throughout the night. Food and drinks — both alcoholic and non-alcoholic — will also be available for purchase at Hotel Leo's Amendment 21 Restaurant & Cocktail Bar - located inside the hotel. Water will be available at no cost.

The Kink Demonstration Room takes place in a separate room. It features a variety of kink experiences where guests sign a waiver and then participate in a kink "tasting." Tastings are short sessions where guests can receive flogging, spanking, tickling, experience ropes play, and other safe explorations of non-traditional sexuality in a non-judgmental space. Full nudity, sex acts, and penetrative sex are not permitted. The focus is expanding guests' understanding of kink and play. We do not offer "hardcore" or more advanced sessions in the Erotic Ball environment. The goal is to titillate and excite guests with authentic kink experiences. We focus on consensual play, respecting all guests, and providing a fun, exploratory experience. If sexual expression and exploration make you uncomfortable, we recommend you stay out of this area. Thank you for supporting sex-positive events, and welcome to the Bellingham Erotic Ball!

Overnight parking is complimentary for guests in the Hotel Leo parking lot off Cornwall Ave. Parking is limited and based on a first-come, first-serve basis.

Additional Parking Options Downtown

• Metered street parking is available throughout downtown Bellingham.

• Be sure to check the time limits posted at each meter.

• Off-street parking is available at numerous garages and lots within 1-2 blocks of the hotel.

Please plan ahead if you plan to drink alcohol and consider a designated driver, Lyft, or Taxi instead of driving.

The BQC is a new 501(c)(3) nonprofit organization whose mission is to connect, celebrate, unite, and advocate for LGBTQ+ and BIPOC communities. We started as a social group on Facebook in November 2022 after hosting two social events at the Mount Baker Theatre to build up our queer community. The first was a film documentary screening of "Ahead of the Curve," and the second was the "Winter Glitter Ball." These two events and monthly BQC Advisory Meetings helped us envision what our queer community could look like post-COVID. With over 1200 members in our Private FB now and several affinity groups needing a safe place to meet, we are ready to start raising funds to open a community center where community members can be assisted in navigating resources, being in the community, attending educational workshops, and more. Our programs will grow as we grow as an organization.

The Bellingham Erotic Ball is an inclusive event for 21+ adults who are part of our LGBTQ+ and BIPOC community, AND all of our friends, allies, and supporters who embrace and celebrate all sexualities, genders, racial and ethnic identities. It is not an event for people who are not supportive or accepting of these communities. We will host educational programs to help those uncomfortable with these communities learn more in a different environment.

We've partnered with Hotel Leo to provide discounted rooms on Friday, Saturday, and Sunday nights. If you want to spend a long weekend in beautiful Bellingham, use this link to access discounted pricing.

LINK NEEDS UPDATING

Whatever makes you feel comfortable or sexy, scary, trendy, funny, erotic, kinky, furry, or clever. This is a sex-positive, queer-hosted event where all are welcome. We want all guests to dress for a night of fun exploration and express themselves any way they want! It is also a night to enjoy the creativity and eroticism of all of the guests! It's OK to stare, just don't be creepy or disrespectful, and don't touch without consent!

There will be a coat check, so dress in layers and protect your sexy, fun, leather, lace, or furry costume!

Direct any questions you have to events@bellinghamqueercollective.org

All funds raised from this event will support the Bellingham Queer Collective, a nonprofit organization whose mission is the connect, celebrate, unite, and advocate for the LGBTQ+ and BIPOC communities. We are in the beginning stages of grant writing and fundraising to open a community center in the downtown Bellingham Arts District.