When people talk about being gay, it’s often presented as the headline act for living openly and celebrating yourself. But if you spend enough time in the LGBTQ+ community (or just have a few creative friends), you start to notice there are a lot of things that take "being gay" and add several extra layers of fun, vibrancy, and celebration. Sometimes, it’s an attitude, a meme, or just a way of seeing the world that goes way beyond sexual orientation.

If you enjoy that wild sense of humor, the love of inside jokes, and doing whatever feels most true to you, you already know what I’m talking about. Some habits, hobbies, and even small comforts have earned a reputation as being "gayer than being gay." While that phrase is a lighthearted exaggeration, it sums up how expressive and joyful some things can feel.

Here I’m sharing my personal list of the top 10 things that feel, in my experience, even more fabulously queer than just being out. Whether you want to expand your horizons for Pride or just enjoy some good-natured laughter, these classics are practically LGBTQ+ traditions now. So, let’s jump right in and celebrate those moments that bring the community together outside of labels alone.

1. Dancing Queer - Lip-syncing to Diva Anthems

Anyone can listen to Cher or Lady Gaga. But memorizing every single word to "Believe" and performing it at home as if you’re on stage at Madison Square Garden? Now that’s a whole extra level. There’s something completely freeing about going all out in a private living room concert, especially when the audience is just your dog or your own reflection. I’ve found that this is a staple of queer culture for a reason; it’s a celebration that’s bigger than words, all about confidence, joy, and letting yourself go wild with big gestures and even bigger notes.

How to Take Up a Notch Your Lip-syncing:

• Choose an anthem that makes you feel unstoppable.
• Perfect your stage presence with mirrors and hairbrush microphones.
• Invite friends for a virtual or inperson drag night, even if none of you are drag performers. It’s all about dramatic fun.

There’s a reason lip-sync battles go viral in LGBTQ+ spaces. The commitment, sparkle, and theatrical flair is honestly eye-catching.

2. Collecting and Wearing Pride Themed Accessories

I’ve acquired so many pins, flags, socks, and rainbow lanyards over the years that I could probably host a small parade solo. Rocking pride accessories isn’t just about making a statement. It’s about carrying a piece of that rainbow with you every day and showing solidarity, both to yourself and to others who might need it. For many people, the sheer joy of collecting different flags (asexual, pansexual, bi, trans—you name it) can become a fun hobby that feels more colorfully "gay" than most things you’ll find on Instagram.

Tips for Everyday Expression:

• Pin a pride button on your jacket or backpack for daily flair.
• Mix flags and colors that feel most true to your identity.
• Swap accessories with friends so everyone gets to share their favorites.

I find that pride accessories are daily reminders that celebration and visibility can be part of every single day, not just at the parade. There is something empowering about grabbing a rainbow pin before facing the world that sparks a subtle sense of belonging.

3. Becoming an Expert Meme Sharer

Queer memes are practically a language of their own. My group chats are full of inside jokes, reaction gifs, and highly specific references that only make sense if you’ve spent lots of time following LGBTQ+ TikTok. 

Sharing memes about "gay panic," awkward flirting, and rainbow capitalism has become, for me, a daily ritual that brings friends together. Every new meme wave brings the in-jokes to life in ways that feel even more relatable and gloriously over the top.

Making Your Meme Game Strong:

• Save your favorites somewhere easy to grab.
• Don’t hold back on making your own memes about personal experiences.
• React to news the only way that feels right—with a good SpongeBob meme or an existential tweet about brunch.

If you can respond to nearly any situation with a meme, you’re already winning in my book. Queer humor comes alive in these playful exchanges.

4. Group Karaoke at the Queer Bar (Or Your Kitchen)

There’s nothing gayer than belting out "It’s Raining Men" with a group of friends at 1 a.m. during Pride Month. Queer karaoke isn’t just about singing well; it’s about bonding over songs that make everyone dance, laugh, and maybe get a little misty-eyed. Whether it’s Britney Spears, Cyndi Lauper, or the whole "Wicked" soundtrack, I always come away from a great karaoke night feeling even prouder to be part of the community.

How to Host Your Own Queer Karaoke:

• Pick a playlist of classic LGBTQ+ anthems and new favorites.
• Encourage costumes and props to bring extra fun.
• Remember: The more dramatic, the better. No one cares if you hit every note.

Some of my closest friendships have formed after singing our hearts out together, surrounded by rainbow decorations and contagious, joyful energy.

5. Rewatching Cult Queer TV Shows (and Quoting Every Line)

Every community has its classic films and shows, and queer people have an entire library. From "RuPaul’s Drag Race" and "The L Word" to "Schitt’s Creek" and "Heartstopper," I can quote lines and reference moments that have become a shortcut for everything camp, emotional, and celebratory about being LGBTQ+. Binge-watching iconic shows is a favorite tradition that somehow feels even "gayer" than coming out itself.

Ways to Make It a Group Event:

• Host a viewing party with themed snacks and drinks.
• Play bingo for classic quotes, character tropes, or outfit reveals.
• Share your favorite gifs and reaction shots when surprises come up.

If you recognize "reading is fundamental" without context, this one’s for you. And there are always new shows to stumble upon that get added to the ever-growing queer canon.

6. The Tradition of Chosen Family Hangouts

Not every queer person has family support, which is why "chosen family" is a big part of our lives. I love gathering for homemade dinners, movie marathons, board games, or snack runs; it always delivers acceptance.

Supporting each other’s wins, big or small, and being there through hard times is a core tradition. Friendships within the chosen family often feel more affirming than any official comingout story.

Creating Special Chosen Family Moments:

• Celebrate everyone’s milestones, even little ones.
• Start group traditions, like an annual picnic or themed dinners.
• Share your favorite music, shows, or crafts to connect even more deeply.

No matter where I’ve lived, nothing shaped my sense of belonging quite like a weekend spent with my chosen family, laughing and building our own support system. It’s a feeling that goes beyond words.

7. Throwing or Attending a Drag Brunch

Drag brunch is the kind of event that makes you wonder why every meal doesn’t feature sequins and bold song numbers. I find it’s more than just breakfast; it’s a glitter-filled showcase of art, performance, resilience, and pure joy.

Whether you’re a regular or love dressing up yourself, there’s no denying the eye-catching energy that drag artistry brings to any space. Even first-timers walk away grinning from ear to ear, feeling a little more fabulous than before.

What Makes Drag Brunch Special:

• Big personalities, big hair, and vibrant costumes you won’t forget.
• A menu that covers all your faves—plus mimosas, of course.
• Unfiltered celebration and laughter for everyone, no matter your vibe.

The best part is the contagious spirit; it’s impossible not to get swept up in the energy, and you’ll leave with new friends every time.

8. Decorating Your Space Like a Rainbow Explosion

Walking into a home filled with plants, fairy lights, wall art about love and acceptance, and disco balls—that’s the queer touch. I’ve seen friends collect art from LGBTQ+ artists, hang each pride flag they own, and line their bookshelves with queer titles. The level of color and creativity always goes beyond any basic room makeover and becomes an extension of who we are.

How to Bring More Queer Vibes to Your Space:

• Add colorful pillows, throws, or bold LED lights.
• Support community artists and decorate with their work.
• Mix pride touches that are subtle with loud-and-proud displays so everyone feels welcome.

Home is a safe place to express yourself without limits. Don’t shy away from adding brightness and personality to every corner—you’ll love how it makes guests feel instantly at ease.

9. Overusing the Word "Iconic" (and Other Gay Lexicon Favorites)

Words like "iconic," "legendary," "slay," "queen," and "yas" are now just part of the way I—and almost all my friends—communicate. Sometimes a single word is all you need for a whole conversation (or a knowing look). More than just slang, this language shows excitement, empathy, and joy in ways that traditional words can’t always manage.

My Favorite Gay Lexicon Moves:

• Reacting to great news with a huge "YAAAS!" (always in caps for extra emphasis).
• Addressing friends as "queen" regardless of gender, because we’re all royalty here.
• Skipping basic greetings for over-the-top compliments or playful roasting.

Queer language is all about having fun with words and making sure everybody gets hyped for even the tiniest of wins. It’s pure community magic.

10. Turning Everyday Errands Into a Fashion Show

This one shows up every time I see a friend dress up just to go grocery shopping. For a lot of us, expressing ourselves through clothes, makeup, or even just a boldly mismatched sock look brings play into daily life that feels extra "gay." Whether it’s a crop top in the dead of winter, vintage sunglasses indoors, or boots that demand attention, little fashion choices make errands more fun and boost confidence.

Making Everyday a Mini Runway:

• Wear something that makes you happy, even if it’s just for yourself.
• Try out new styles or colors just because you want to experiment.
• Offer compliments wherever you go; positivity goes a long way.

Every sidewalk is a catwalk with friends who cheer you on. Why not make the most of routine tasks and have fun with it? Stepping out boldly never gets old.

Final Thoughts

Being openly gay and celebrating yourself is powerful, but to me, it’s all the little traditions, inside jokes, and expressive celebrations that really take things over the top. From karaoke nights and meme exchanges to the magic of drag and the power of chosen family, "gayer than being gay" isn’t about a checklist. It’s about living with joy, connecting through shared experiences, and knowing you’re surrounded by people who get it. If you spot yourself or your friends in any of these, you’re already carrying the rainbow torch. No parade required—just real pride every single day.