What is AIDF?

Founded in 2015, The Austin International Drag Foundation is a registered 501(c)3 nonprofit organization that hosts an annual drag AIDFestival that showcases performers from across the globe and brings them to the heart of Austin, Texas. AIDF emphasizes the works and talents of Black, Indigenous, People of Color (BIPOC) as well as non-binary, transgender, and gender-variant performers who transcend former and dated definitions of what drag "should" look like. AIDF believes that drag is for everyone, and we welcome everyone from newer performers to seasoned veterans who participate in all realms of the drag world. AIDF has hosted  performers who are alumni from television shows such as RuPaul's Drag Race, Dragula, and Camp Wannakiki, and many of whom became winners and top contestants on subsequent shows. We're not saying what happens at AIDF is magic, but we sure host a lot of notable performers who start their journeys at AIDF!

When is AIDF?

AIDF is held annually and has been previously held in the months of November and April. At the beginning of the COVID-19 pandemic, AIDF also hosted Virtual festivals in 2020 and 2021.

AIDF 2025 will be held during Thursday, September 18 - Sunday, September 21, 2025 - keep your eyes peeled for updates on our social media sites for information about performer applications, show schedules, and much more.