Queer Diwali Ball

The Queer Diwali Ball is back for its third year, illuminating the season with its radiant theme of Divine Deities. Hosted by Malai, the Ball promises a night of artistry, culture, and celebration centering queer South Asian voices.

The event will take place on Friday, October 24, 2025, at 3 Dollar Bill in Brooklyn. Guests can look forward to a spectacular evening featuring:

10+ performers showcasing drag, dance, and live music
A vibrant Diwali Mela with local vendors and community makers
A celebration that blends tradition, queerness, and resistance
More than just a party, the Queer Diwali Ball is a benefit event raising funds for Desi Rainbow Parents and Allies, an organization providing vital support for LGBTQIA+ South Asians and their families. By weaving together community, culture, and performance, the Ball aims to bring visibility to queer and trans South Asian experiences while supporting burning causes of our time.

This year’s Ball is sponsored by Intro – Queer Desi Matchmaking and presented in partnership with Brooklyn Community Pride Center. Together, the collaborators are working to create a space of joy, solidarity, and cultural pride for LGBTQIA+ communities.

“Diwali is a festival of light, and through this Ball, we want to shine that light on our communities, our stories, and our struggles — all while celebrating the beauty of queerness,” says host Malai.