Last night, Grindr’s Pleasure Ball made its grand return to New York City, taking over Iron23. Garden of otherworldly funa lush, surreal playground where fantasy and flirtation collide.
Now in its second year, Pleasure Ball has quickly become one of the city’s most anticipated queer gatherings, a celebration that embodies the spirit of transformation and self-expression at the heart of LGBTQ+ nightlife.
Where fantasy blooms
This year’s theme was a poisonous Eden-like dreamscape, and the venue was filled with lush plants, glowing snakes, and dreamy lights. Guests wandered through an atmosphere that felt part runway, part fever dream, and completely grinder.
Music legends and nightlife icons took part in the performance. Slayyyter played a sultry set just before midnight with their new single “Crank,” and Jake Sears of Scissor Sisters fame wowed the crowd with hits like “Don’t Feel Like Dancin'” and “Filthy/Gorgeous.”
“Halloween has always been a great gay holiday,” Sears said. “It’s about transformation, creativity, and chaos. Performing at Pleasure Ball feels like an immediate return to the magic of downtown that I love.”
celebrating queer excess
The night attracted a glamorous gathering of celebrities and scene-stealers including Aquaria, Dawn, Ashnikko and designer Edvin Thompson. Produced by Kind, the event was equal parts fashion show and performance art, full of energy.
For Grindr, this event reflects more than just nightlife. It is a manifestation of its identity. “Halloween is more than just one night for our community,” said Tristan Pineiro, Grindr’s senior vice president of brand marketing and communications. “It’s about transformation and showing off. Sometimes a little, sometimes a lot.”
The encounter between style and seduction
The night also marked the debut of a limited edition. Grinder x Krishabana capsule collection. Designed as wearable art, the three-piece set – Heavy Metal Jock, Adam Harness and Prick and Thorn Grip Chain – fuses kink and couture.
Modeled by Terrence, Amir Morris and Luxx Noir London, the collection brought an industrial edge to the dance floor. Each piece combines punk-inspired details and sculptural eroticism to embody the unapologetic confidence that defines LGBTQ+ fashion today.
Available in limited quantities grinderThis capsule of websites and apps captures the bold, sensual and slightly dangerous spirit of Pleasure Ball itself.
Source: Gayety – gayety.com
