WerQfest made a triumphant return last Friday, with its Act II: Glitter Cowgurl party filling the .ZACK venue in a tribute to Beyonce's new album Cowboy Carter.
Since debuting in 2020, WerQFest has celebrated St. Louis' Black, queer community, and the April 6, 2024, chapter was true to its roots even while adding a country-glam spin. Amid the glittering lights and shimmering outfits, the crowd moved with passionate abandon. Each person radiated beauty and confidence, their outfits a kaleidoscope of extravagance. The only thing that seemed to matter was getting lost in the music.
Dozens of people wore bedazzled cowgirl hats in reference to Queen Bey's new look. But the most noticeable element of the night was intense joy and laughter, as attendees danced together and left their worries and responsibilities for the morning after.
Scroll down for highlights from RFT Photojournalist Sana'a Abou Antoun.