In Portland, Oregon, a unique initiative is transforming the city’s hiking scene by blending environmental education with vibrant drag performances. “Drag Me Outside” is a hiking group that merges queer community, education, and nature, led by drag performers and environmental scientists Thespis D. Light (he/him) and Efemmera Gendera (she/they). (clackamasartsalliance.org)
Founded in March 2026, “Drag Me Outside” offers accessible, low-impact nature walks that encourage participants to embrace the outdoors in a welcoming and inclusive environment. The group has quickly gained popularity, attracting a diverse following and fostering a sense of community among attendees. (opb.org)
The founders, both seasoned professionals in their fields, understand the importance of making the outdoors accessible to all. By incorporating drag into their nature walks, they aim to inspire and engage people who might otherwise feel unwelcome in traditional outdoor settings. (pilotka.org)
Their upcoming event, “Forest Pub | Drag as a Doorway to the Forest,” scheduled for July 13, 2026, at the McMenamins Mission Theater, invites fresh voices and new ways of connecting to our forests, featuring Efemmera Gendera and Thespis D. Light of Drag Me Outside. (worldforestry.org)
For those interested in joining their next hike or learning more about “Drag Me Outside,” details are available on the Clackamas County Arts Alliance website. (clackamasartsalliance.org)
“Drag Me Outside” is more than just a hiking group; it’s a movement that challenges conventions and inspires a deeper connection with the environment. By combining environmental education with drag performance, they offer a fresh perspective on outdoor exploration, fostering inclusivity and community engagement.