San Francisco’s vibrant queer nightlife scene is about to lose another iconic venue, and the tears are real. Oasis, the beloved SoMa nightclub that has been a sanctuary for drag performers and LGBTQ+ party-goers for a decade, is preparing to close its doors after New Year’s Eve.

D’Arcy Drollinger, co-founder of the club alongside the late Heklina, made the heart-wrenching announcement, citing financial challenges that have plagued the venue. Rising operational costs, declining attendance, and the aftermath of a recent armed robbery have pushed Oasis to the brink of closure.

A Legacy of Queer Joy

Oasis wasn’t just a nightclub; it was a cultural institution. Birthed in 2015, the venue became home to legendary drag shows like Mother and hosted performances from countless Rupaul’s Drag Race stars. Even during the pandemic, Oasis survived through creative fundraising, including a campy telethon that raised a whopping $270,000.

The Changing Landscape of Nightlife

The club’s closure reflects a broader trend in San Francisco’s nightlife. Post-pandemic, bars and clubs are struggling to attract younger crowds. Drollinger has even depleted her retirement account in a desperate attempt to keep the venue alive, highlighting the dire straits of queer entertainment spaces.

Looking Forward

While the physical space might be closing, Oasis Arts will continue, promising to bring queer performance to new venues. As Drollinger puts it, the spirit of Oasis will live on, spreading “queer joy beyond the walls” of the original nightclub.

For those wanting to say goodbye, Oasis will host big parties during Up Your Alley and Folsom Street Fair weekends, culminating in a “New Year’s Eve Spectacular” that promises to be an unforgettable farewell.