Photo courtesy of Heklina/Nickice.com

“In light of the events that happened in Orlando, this year’s Pride theme is extremely appropriate. I know it might sound trivial, but if we can’t have fun at Pride, then terror wins.”

—Heklina

One of San Francisco’s most well-known drag queens, Heklina, certainly knows who’s hosting the best parties on Pride weekend. What better source for Pride veterans and newbies alike to get the hookup from? This week, I sat down with her to pick the brain under that fabulous wig — and to hear her picks for the best Pride party options for any and every stripe.

Sarah: You’ve been called “Queen of Queens” and “SF Royalty.” How did you arrive at such a place of pride?

Heklina: I’ve been called that? Really? I’m flattered. I just do what I do. People also call me a legend and an institution, but that just means I’m old!

Sarah: What have you been up to in 2016?

Heklina: I’ve really just been focusing on Oasis, my new-ish nightclub that I opened last year. It’s keeping me a busy girl.

Sarah: What do think about this year’s Pride theme, “For Racial and Economic Justice”?

Heklina: In light of the events that happened in Orlando, this year’s Pride theme is extremely appropriate. I know it might sound trivial, but if we can’t have fun at Pride, then terror wins.

Sarah: What headlines will emerge from Pride this year?

Heklina: Remembering the victims in Orlando.

Sarah: How have you seen Pride evolve over the 25 years you’ve been in the city?

Heklina: Of course, I can say it’s become much blander, corporate and mainstream as there has been more acceptance. On the flip side of that, more acceptance was needed, so I guess you can say it has evolved in a natural way.

Sarah: Any tips for first-time attendees?

Heklina: Sunscreen! Water! Sensible shoes!

Sarah: What was the best thing you ever wore to Pride?

Heklina: The best thing I ever wore was my pink dress by Mr. David when I was Pride grand marshal in 2004.

Sarah: Where are the best places to pee?

Heklina: In Civic Center, you’ll need to use the porta-potties, or be like everyone else along the parade route and use the bathrooms in Starbucks, etc. Just don’t pee in the street, please!

Sarah: What Pride events are you involved with this year?

Heklina: I’ll be performing at Cal Academy’s Pride NightLife party on Thursday the 23rd. On Saturday the 25th (Pink Saturday), I host Mother: With Cazwell at Oasis. On Sunday I will be hosting the Frameline Film Festival closing-night party.

Sarah: Best party for a newbie to attend?

Heklina: Juanita More’s legendary Pride Party is the best intro for the newbie!

Sarah: If you could go to only one party this year, what would it be?

Heklina: Hard French Hearts Los Homos, because I’m excited to see Psychic TV!

Image courtesy of Mariya Stangl

Sarah: Best party on a budget?

Heklina: Civic Center on Pride Sunday after the parade. Great people-watching and entertainment on the main stage. And I believe it’s free, or maybe they ask for a small donation at the gates.

Sarah: Best sober party?

Heklina: Soberfest 2016.

Sarah: Best party for celebrity sightings?

Heklina: I would say the Frameline Film Festival closing party. The cast of Looking will be there, but good luck getting a ticket to that.

Sarah: Best party for EDM?

Heklina: Shenanigans at Oasis on Friday the 24th. If you want a thump-thump-shirtless-boys party, this is it!

Sarah: Best place for impromptu parties?

Heklina: The Castro on Pink Saturday. But be careful!

Sarah: Party with the best eats?

Heklina: Gary Virginia and Donna Sachet’s Annual Pride Brunch, benefiting the Positive Resource Center.

Sarah: Party with the best people-watching?

Heklina: The Pride parade itself. Go grab a spot along the route on Market Street and join the party.

Sarah: Best party for networking?

Heklina: Official SF Pride VIP Party.

Sarah: Best after party?

Heklina: After parties on Pride day itself are tricky, as EVERYONE is exhausted by the time Sunday night rolls around. If you still have the energy, go to this …