FeedBearracuda Gets SF Bears Partying Twice A Month
Written by NetBear on May 11, 2008 – 5:32 am -What do you think would happen if you brought together furry guys of all ages in a space that has everything from a glamorous deco-style bar, to an intimate dance floor and a subterranean rumpus room?
Sounds like a good time, right? Well, that’s exactly what you’ll find at Bearracuda, the now twice monthly San Francisco bear event. It’s a big ol’ house party that brings together bears, cubs and their admirers in a free form environment that begs to be explored.
OK, I admit it. I do enjoy getting “embedded” at an event to take photos and learn what it’s all about. Whether it’s a war protest or a pride parade, there’s always something to be discovered. Walking up to the Deco Lounge to visit Bearracuda I really had no idea of what to expect. I had never been to this club near San Francisco’s Civic Center and Polk Street areas.
Walking inside you immediately discover why it’s called Deco Lounge. In 2005 they restored the facade and main bar to deco era splendor. It was especially interesting that night with all the Bearracuda posters hung around the bar area. Or was it that there were hung Bearracuda guys hanging around the bar? On second thought, I’m pretty sure it was a healthy mix of both that night. 
I was supposed to meet the founder of Bearracuda, Matt Mikesell, in order to ask him a few questions before the party got started. I noticed a couple guys getting snacks ready for the event. I was sure that one of them had to be Matt. One guy seemed to be directing and another seemed to be doing all the work. Naturally I thought the director was the guy in charge. So I introduced myself. “Are you Matt?” He replies, “no” and points me to the tall thirty-year-old with a big smile on his face who was busy putting hot wienies in a crock pot. “Hi, I’m Matt” he says, putting his hand out to shake mine.
You see? It’s just that kind of assumption that can get you in trouble sometimes. At six-foot-five feet tall, one might also easily assume that this handsome young event promoter was unapproachable for mere mortals. Once again, that was far from the truth.
Matt, or “Mattacuda” as he is affectionately known by some, is an easygoing and fun loving California native. After years working as an “office slave” in San Francisco he came up with the idea for putting on a regular party for bears that would be friendly, attitude free and full of fur. Bearracuda was born. And as you will see in this collection of photos, it looks like Matt has succeeded in fulfilling his goals.
This was my first time at Bearracuda. But it sure won’t be my last. It’s a unique kind of space where you’ll see bearish guys of all body types and ages enjoying each other’s company in an open and accepting environment. At times it feels a little like a frat party. But nobody’s getting hazed here. (Unless they want to…)
It’s the kind of party that makes you feel like your best friend is putting it on. And he’s there to make sure everyone is having a great time. With just a $6 cover you can’t lose.
Visit the Bearracuda web site to learn more and see when the next party will be.