VicBears celebrates 30 years of furry fun with a week of spectacular events for Bearfest 2026, and it all starts today.
Featuring a range of paid and free events, Victoria’s social group for bears and those who like them invite you to travel the 90s with a week of summer events.
Running from January 17 – 24 (and Midsumma Pride March), the summer festival features a mix of daytime social and nightlife celebrations.
Curated for bears and their admirers, highlights include a beach day, karaoke night, dance parties, and the annual Mr VicBears Competition.
Founded in 1996, VicBears is a social club for queer male or male-identifying individuals of all shapes, sizes, races and ages, built on the values of community, inclusion and body positivity.
“I cannot believe that the VicBears have been around for 30 years.” Club President Neil Harvey told QNews.
“When the committee started planning, we thought what better way to honour our 30th birthday than having this year’s BearFest be a 90s theme”
Image: SuppliedWhat’s on for Bearfest?
Theming for each BearFest event draws inspiration from 90s films and television shows, including The Nanny, Clueless, and The Golden Girls.
That’ll be sure to invoke some fun looks for those who like to dress up, as the club kicks off its anniversary year.
It all starts on Saturday 17th, with Bear Watch Beach Day, as the bears spend the day at Williamstown Beach.
Then on Sunday 18th, head to Midsumma Carnival and pop by the VicBears community stall, where you can get covered in sunscreen by this year’s Mr VicBear contestants.
Or win a prize from Eagle Leather by sticking your hand in the club’s big furry box.
Monday 19th, head to UBQ for a Teddy Bear Banquet as we begin the step-down week for Mr VicBear 2025, Billy Mather.
Tuesday 20th, get ready to sing up a storm at the Laird with Bearaoke, hosted by Dean Arcuri. (Men only)
Strip down and don your best Calvin Kleins on Wednesday 21st for Underbear at the Laird. (Men Only)
Then on the afternoon of Thursday 22nd, head to Wet on Wellington for the Bathhouse Bears Pool Party. (Men only)
Friday 23rd, the Mr VicBear Competition takes place at the Laird, and a new Bear supreme will be sashed. (Men only)
And it all rounds out on Saturday 24th with the HUNK Dance Party at The Laird, five bears enter the stage, but only one can win.
On Sunday, February 1st, join VicBears as they come together and march in the Midsumma Pride March.
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A mix of events where every bear gets to shine
The schedule also offers a mix of male-only events and all-gender events.
“We really try to cater to as many of our members as possible by having both free low-key chilled events and full-on dance/underwear parties,” Havey said.
“But we make sure to cater for community across the spectrum who want to come along.”
“Having a stall at Midsumma Carnival really helps us with that. It’s a great way to connect with our members and introduce ourselves to people who might not have heard of the VicBears.
“Also, it’s just a really fun day.”
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Who will take home the title of Mr VicBears 2026?
A group of brave club members step forward to compete in the Mr VicBears Competition, with the winner of the three-round pageant becoming the club’s representative for a 12-month reign.
This year’s competition features a mix of new and returning contestants, including Teddy Dando, Justin Young, Raymond Lee, Jake Lansbury and Craig Ashcroft.
During the competition, each contestant will showcase their charisma, uniqueness, nerve and talent across the Bear Wear, Barely There (Swimsuit) and Talent rounds.
On the night, outgoing 2025 titleholder Billy will step down and officially welcome his successor.
Reflecting on his time wearing the sash, Mather said the role had been transformative.
“Being Mr VicBears 2025 has been one of the most challenging and rewarding experiences of my life,” he said.
“It pushed me to grow, I’ve travelled across the country to represent the club, and provided incredible opportunities that I never expected.”
When asked what advice he has for his successor, Billy said, “It takes a village. You can’t do this alone.”
“Gather a good group of friends to support you throughout the year”.
“Don’t forget, you get out of it what you put into the experience. It’s a whirlwind, but it’s definitely worth the ride.
Check out the full Bearfest schedule and grab your tickets via the VicBears website.
Photo by Ghanem Irba PhotographyFor the latest LGBTIQA+ Sister Girl and Brother Boy news, entertainment, and community stories in Australia, visit qnews.com.au. Find us on Facebook, Twitter, Instagram and YouTube.
