As Pride festivities unfolded in York, a vibrant celebration took place at Impossible Restaurant and Wonderbar, where a sell-out crowd revelled in a bottomless drag brunch. The event, highlighted by stellar performances from beloved drag acts like the Cheeky Girls and the renowned Velma Celli, drew in around 100 attendees, predominantly women, enjoying an afternoon filled with laughter, song, and camaraderie.

Kicking off at 3pm, the event offered 90 minutes of uninterrupted enjoyment, featuring an assortment of drinks including wine, beer, and a selection of cocktails, all paired with a menu of comfort food. The atmosphere was electrifying, as Velma Celli, a local drag superstar known for her irrepressible energy and lavish costumes, took the stage. Decked out in a shimmering silver outfit and a glorious blonde wig, she quickly engaged with the audience, demonstrating her knack for both comedy and music. The crowd erupted with delight as she interacted, even playfully stroking the bald head of a participant, showcasing her warm and inclusive style.

The setlist resonated with the crowd, ranging from classics by Cher and Abba to Beyoncé's empowering anthem, "If you like it, put a ring on it." These selections were particularly fitting given the presence of numerous hen parties, each contributing to the sense of celebration and unity that filled the air. Guests indulged not only in the performances but also in a feast of delicious offerings, including fries, burgers, and chicken wings, amplifying the joyous spirit of the afternoon.

Following Velma's lively set, burlesque artist Miss Valentine took to the stage, her act accentuated by an eye-catching feathered ensemble that further captivated the enthralled audience. This rotation of talent exemplified the diversity and richness of the drag performance world, ensuring that there was something for everyone to enjoy. Among the attendees, a standout was Lindsay from Middlesborough, who enthusiastically led a conga line and expressed her delight with the event, stating, “It’s been great fun. The show was brilliant. The people in here are lovely.”

Impossible’s manager, Jack Vanston, emphasised that the venue strives to be a safe and inclusive space year-round, not just during Pride celebrations. He announced plans to continue hosting monthly drag brunches, reinforcing the restaurant's commitment to the LGBTQ+ community and highlighting its role as a cultural hub within York's vibrant hospitality scene.

As the sun set, the festivities at Impossible showed no signs of slowing down, with an agenda packed with additional performances by the Cheeky Girls, burlesque acts, and more throughout the evening. Such events contribute to a broader tapestry of Pride celebrations popping up across the region, with notable future events like the York Pride Drag Race set for 2025, promising to expand the spotlight on local talent and community engagement.

The atmosphere at Impossible not only celebrated drag culture but also embodied the values of joy, acceptance, and community that underpin Pride events. With its lively brunch experience and a roster of exciting performances, Impossible truly stands out as a leading venue for those seeking a taste of the extraordinary in York.

📌 Reference Map:

Source: Noah Wire Services