Race for the Tiara
Race for the Tiara is an annual fundraiser featuring a friendly, fun drag competition show that started in 1984. In its early days, Race for the Tiara was held in the living room of a Cambridge apartment enjoyed by small group of friends. As time passed the crowds grew and the idea to make an impact in the community was born.
Every year, amateur performers (alongside a few professional drag queens) grace the stage and compete as they try to sway three judges and win our grand prize: the Diamond Tiara, plus $500 in CBVA league credit!
Bring LOTS of cash; 100% of all cash tips for the queens (along with 100% of ticket sales) is donated to charity!
Race for the Tiara 2026
Join us for Race for the Tiara, the second year in a row at our new location, Crystal Ballroom in Somerville! Race for the Tiara is CBVA’s legendary amateur drag competition celebrating community, creativity, and fierce talent. This event is hosted by Cambridge Boston Volleyball Association—Boston’s largest and original LGBTQIA+ volleyball league—in proud partnership with Y2Y, a Harvard Square shelter for young adults experiencing homelessness.
Expect jaw-dropping performances (both amateur and professional), a cash bar, audience awards, and one sparkling crown: the Diamond Tiara 👑.
Who will snatch it this year? Come find out!
Saturday, May 2, 2026, doors open at 7:00pm
Crystal Ballroom
55 Davis Square
Somerville, MA 02144
Admission:
General Admission (GA) tickets are $25
VIP Table Package (includes 4 GA tickets around a single table at the front of the room below the stage) are $200 – only 10 VIP tables available
Remember to bring LOTS OF CASH! 100% of all cash tips for the queens (along with 100% of ticket sales) is donated to charity.
Tickets
CBVA’s Race for the Tiara Giving History
- 2025: $4,000 to Y2Y Youth Homeless Shelter
- 2019: $6,400 to Victory Programs
- 2018: $7,200 to AIDS Action Committee (Fenway Health)
- 2017: $3,150 to AIDS Action Coalition
- 2016: $3,150 to MAC (Multicultural AIDS Coalition)
- 2015: $1,500 to LGBT Aging Project
- 2014: $1,400 to Waltham House
- 2013: $2,000 to Victory Programs’ Boston Living Center.
Another great year and CBVA was able to raise and donate $6400 to the Victory Programs!
The success of this event is thanks to your continuous attendance and the hard work of our volunteers!
Thank you for enabling CBVA in our mission of extending good!
