Support ButFest 2024 and Queer Nightlife in Istanbul

Support ButFest 2024 and Queer Nightlife in Istanbul

Dear Supporters and Friends,

Counting down the days for Butfest, Queerwaves' biggest event of the year, we ask for your support! Organizing a whole day of events accessible to all is not for the faint of the heart. Yet, we know we can make it with a little help from our friends.

ButFest 2024 is Here!

This year, ButFest is returning to the forest for its 4th year, offering a spectacular 15-hour-long festival experience with two different stages, a Koli market (where LGBTQ+ individuals sell their own creation), live performances, and workshops. ButFest 2024’s BUT lineup have been announced:Akis Ka, Basicdisarm, BBS, Canberry, Cyberpunkuzi, DJ Sextape, el1fkk, Florence K. Delight, Jilet Sebahat, Jtamul, Luna Fosepthicc, Maui, Merababencagla, Nots, Samy Winehouse, Sissy Misfit, Şevval Kılıç, Syntia, 4-I are ready to perform special sets on August 17th. Stay tuned for the full lineup and more details!

Solidarity Tickets

We are committed to providing as many solidarity tickets as possible to those who cannot afford them. Your donations will help us distribute these tickets and ensure that everyone in our community can participate in this vital gathering. The cost of one solidarity ticket is only 20 Euros, but any amount you can contribute will make a significant difference.

Why Your Support Matters

In the face of increasing pressure, bans, and discrimination against the queer community in Turkey, coming together in safe spaces is more important than ever. These events are not just about having fun; they are acts of resistance and solidarity. Your support helps us create these spaces where we can celebrate, support each other, and build a stronger community.

Previous Campaigns and Impact

Thanks to your past support, we have successfully organized over 75 events, supported more than 30 queer nightlife workers, and welcomed over 4000 individuals. Your donations have been a lifeline, helping many cover their basic needs during these challenging times. The impact of your support has been profound, and we are incredibly grateful for your solidarity.

Donate

Any amount you can contribute will help us provide solidarity tickets and cover event expenses.

For donations above 50 Euros, we will give you a ButFest merch as a gift.

Share

Spread the word about our campaign to reach more people who might want to support our cause.

Join Us

If you're in Istanbul, join us at ButFest and be a part of our vibrant community.

Festival Details

As Queerwaves, no discrimination or phobia is allowed in this unique safe space that we have created through voluntary efforts. ButFest is a special festival organized by Lubunyas, where every Lubunya can dance freely, combining rave culture with the festival vibe. Racism, sexism, homophobia, transphobia, or any form of harassment and disrespect will not be tolerated. Our dedicated awareness team will be on hand throughout the event for any assistance.

Thank you for standing with us. Together, we can continue to create safe, inclusive, and joyful spaces for the LGBTQ+ community in Istanbul.

“Queerwaves is an initiative that has been organising queer events in Istanbul for about 10 years and has expanded its following, especially through the parties it organises. The parties don't have a specific venue; they take place in different locations. To create safer spaces, the venue is only announced to ticket-holders. Apart from parties, Queerwaves also organise various events such as markets where queer designers can sell their products, exhibition tours, and workshops. Operating within DIY culture, where every aspect from decor to sound system, from bar to door, is taken care of by the team, Queerwaves is truly a valuable organisation for those who want to dance in a safer space until the morning. It is one of the crucial groups that contributes to nightlife as resistance in Istanbul.”

"Nightlife as Sustained Resistance in Istanbul," CTM Festival, June 2024, https://www.ctm-festival.de/magazine/nightlife-as-sustained-resistance-in-istanbul.

.