The enchanting spirit of Provincetown Bear Week 2023 came alive through captivating images of the cute, cuddly, and oh-so-frisky bears donning their native leather and speedos. The event, held from July 8 to 15, paid homage to its founder, LGBTQ historian John Burrows, who passed away earlier in the year. Despite his absence, the Provincetown Business Guild (PBG), along with the Crown & Anchor and other Ptown venues, pledged to uphold his furry bear dream.
The week-long celebration showcased various events, including the Camp Pool Party, Bear Market, Otter Pop Pool Party, and the Firemen’s Ball. A special highlight was the debut appearance of activist and drag artist Eureka O’Hara, known for her roles in RuPaul’s Drag Race and HBO’s We’re Here. Eureka’s empowering presence resonated with the community, emphasizing size-positivity, inclusivity, kindness, and gender diversity, aligning perfectly with the spirit of Provincetown and Bear Week.
The Advocate’s editors curated over 55 sizzling yet wholesome photographs from the festivities, offering a glimpse of the joy and togetherness that define the Provincetown Bear Week experience. These images capture the essence of inclusivity and the various facets of bear cultures, reinforcing the event’s enduring legacy in the LGBTQ community.