International Mr. Leather (IML)

Step into one of the world's most important collections of leather and LGBTQ+ history. The Leather Archives & Museum in Rogers Park houses decades of community artifacts, photography, and cultural documentation that tell the story of leather culture from the ground up. Whether you're deeply embedded in the scene or curious about the history, this is the real thing — a space built by and for the community it preserves.

Step into one of the world's most comprehensive collections of leather and LGBTQ+ history. The Leather Archives & Museum in Rogers Park holds decades of cultural artifacts, photographs, and stories that document the leather community's impact and legacy. Whether you're curious about the scene's roots or deepening your own connection to the culture, this is a space that honors what came before and what continues to matter.

The opening night of International Mr. Leather Bear Brotherhood sets the stage for Chicago's biggest leather celebration. Hosted by IML 2023 Marcus Barella and Madam Destiny B. Childs, expect pageantry, community, and the kind of energy that only happens when the leather family gathers. This is where the weekend's magic begins.

The leather community's biggest weekend kicks off with tradition — the Last Shine at 9:30 and First Shine at 10:00. It's the opening bell for IMLBB, where the real celebration begins.

The opening night of a new art show in Chicago. Join the community for an evening of visual art and creative expression. Perfect for art lovers and those looking to support local artists.

Step into one of the world's most important collections of leather and LGBTQ+ history. The Leather Archives & Museum in Rogers Park houses decades of community artifacts, photographs, and cultural documents that tell the story of leather culture and queer resilience. Whether you're deeply embedded in the scene or curious about this vital piece of LGBTQ+ heritage, it's a genuinely moving place to spend a few hours.

Turn anger into action in one fired-up hour. Learn the ACLU's proven protest strategies—from rallies to creative direct action—plus the 3.5% rule that can stop authoritarianism. You'll walk away with practical tools (calls, emails, social media, community organizing) and the inspiration of Sophie Scholl and Gandhi. Democracy needs people ready to show up. Bring water, your phone, and a friend.

A dedicated space for people in the leather community navigating recovery and sobriety. This Friday morning gathering brings together folks who understand both the leather lifestyle and the challenges of staying sober—no judgment, just real conversation and mutual support from people who get it.

LeatherU is an educational workshop series diving deep into BDSM fundamentals, safety practices, and community culture. Presented by Mufasa's Pride Productions, this Friday session brings together leather enthusiasts and curious newcomers for hands-on learning in a judgment-free space. Whether you're exploring for the first time or deepening existing knowledge, expect practical skills, honest conversation, and a room full of people who take this seriously.

The International Mr. Bootblack competition brings together leather and kink community members for a day of competition, camaraderie, and celebration. Watch as contestants compete for the title while the community gathers to support, celebrate, and connect with one another. It's a significant event in the leather calendar — part pageantry, part community gathering, all heart.

Fifty-plus vendors fill 28,000 square feet of the Congress Plaza Hotel with everything from local makers and LGBTQ+-owned businesses to art, fashion, crafts, and goods you won't find anywhere else. It's the kind of market where you actually discover something — not just browse, but find your next favorite thing. Perfect for a Friday afternoon of shopping, supporting community, and seeing what's new.

The LA&M booth is running their legendary sling raffle at the vendor mart — grab tickets at $10 each or 3 for $25 and you might just win. Thanks to JimSupport for donating the prize, and yes, it can be shipped to you if you're the lucky one.

Two organizations coming together for their first collaborative art show, exploring the tension between defiance and restraint through visual work. This inaugural exhibition brings together artists and community in a space designed to provoke conversation and challenge perspective.

New to the International Mr. Leather Bear Brotherhood Chicago chapter? This is your low-pressure intro to the community — a chance to meet other bears, ask questions, and get the lay of the land before diving deeper. Friendly faces, no judgment, just folks who get it.

A leadership development program for the leather community, presented by Mufasa's Pride Productions. LeatherU brings together experienced leather practitioners and emerging leaders for education, mentorship, and community building. Whether you're new to leather culture or deepening your knowledge, this is an opportunity to learn from seasoned voices and connect with people who share your passion for the lifestyle.

A daytime gathering for the leather and bootblack community to connect, share skills, and celebrate the craft of boot shining and leather care. Whether you're experienced or curious about the scene, this is a welcoming space to learn, socialize, and be part of the community.

An educational workshop diving into leather and kink culture, presented by Mufasa's Pride Productions. Whether you're curious about the community, exploring your interests, or looking to deepen your knowledge, this Friday afternoon session creates space for real conversation and learning in a welcoming environment.

A hands-on workshop from Mufasa's Pride Productions that breaks down bondage basics for curious newcomers and seasoned folks alike. Learn safety, technique, and communication in a judgment-free space designed to demystify kink culture. Whether you're exploring for the first time or sharpening your skills, this is the kind of educational event the leather community actually needs.

The leather community's regular gathering for bootblacks and enthusiasts — a Friday afternoon space to connect, learn, and celebrate the craft and culture. Whether you're experienced or curious about the scene, this is where the community comes together.

The leather community's annual pet and handler party is exactly what it sounds like — a free evening of pup play, human-animal roleplay, squeaky toys, treats, and special guests. Brought to you by Arizona Pups and Handlers and Chicago Pet Patrol, it's the kind of uninhibited, playful gathering that only happens once a year. Cash bar available.

The leather community's biggest competition heats up with preliminary rounds for International Mr. Leather and International Mr. Bear Brotherhood. Watch contenders from across the country compete for the crown in front of a packed room of leather enthusiasts and supporters. This is the night the community comes together to celebrate its finest.

Nightshift brings the Recon community together for a late-night social — a chance to connect with like-minded folks in a relaxed, welcoming space. Whether you're new to the scene or a regular, this is where the night gets interesting.

A late-night gathering for the rubber and gear community hosted by MIR International Rubber Weekend and Chicago Rubber Club. Connect with others who share your passion for latex, leather, and fetish wear in a welcoming, judgment-free space. Perfect for seasoned enthusiasts and curious newcomers alike.

A safe space for people in the leather community navigating recovery and sobriety. This Friday night gathering brings together folks who understand both the leather lifestyle and the challenges of staying sober—no judgment, just real conversation and mutual support from people who get it.

Saturday morning sessions diving into topics that matter to the leather and kink community — workshops, panels, and presentations led by experienced educators and community members. Whether you're curious, experienced, or somewhere in between, there's something here to learn and explore.

Step into one of the world's most significant collections of leather and LGBTQ+ history. The Leather Archives & Museum in Rogers Park houses rare artifacts, photographs, and documents that tell the story of leather culture, kink communities, and queer resilience. Whether you're curious about the scene's roots or a longtime community member, there's something here that speaks to you.

Fifty-plus vendors filling 28,000 square feet of the Congress Plaza Hotel — this is the kind of sprawling marketplace where you'll find everything from local makers and boutique goods to services and community organizations. Whether you're hunting for something specific or just browsing, there's enough here to spend a real afternoon. Ticketed event.

The LA&M booth is running their legendary sling raffle at the vendor mart — grab a fistful of tickets for $10 each (or 3 for $25) and you might win big. Thanks to JimSupport for supplying the prize, and yes, it can be shipped to you if you're the lucky winner.

A Saturday morning gathering for the leather and bootblack community — a chance to connect, share techniques, and celebrate the craft and culture that brings people together. Whether you're seasoned or just curious about the scene, this is a welcoming space to learn, polish, and belong.

A Saturday morning gathering for folks in the leather community working on recovery and sobriety. This is a space to connect with others who get the culture, share what's on your mind, and build community around staying healthy. Low-key, judgment-free, and real.

A hands-on bootblacking workshop from Mufasa's Pride Productions that teaches the craft, ritual, and sensuality of this leather tradition. Whether you're curious about the culture or looking to refine your technique, this Saturday afternoon session brings together folks who get what makes bootblacking special — the care, the attention, the connection. Come ready to learn and connect with the community.

A daytime gathering for the leather and bootblack community to connect, learn, and celebrate the craft. Whether you're seasoned in the scene or curious about what bootblacking is all about, this is a welcoming space to shine boots, share techniques, and meet people who take pride in the tradition. Saturday afternoons belong to community.

The inaugural collaboration between IMLBB and LA&M brings together queer and trans artists for an exhibition that pushes boundaries. Defiant/Restraint explores tension, identity, and creative resistance through painting, sculpture, photography, and mixed media. A Saturday afternoon opening that's part gallery moment, part community gathering—exactly the kind of art space the city needs.

A brunch for the leather community focused on recovery, wellness, and connection. Gather with folks who understand the lifestyle and are committed to sobriety and health. Good food, good company, and real conversation — exactly what a recovery-focused community space should be.

A daytime gathering for the leather and kink community centered around mutual pleasure and connection. This ticketed event brings together folks who appreciate the scene's sensuality and camaraderie in a space designed for comfort and exploration.

A hands-on workshop diving into electro play for the leather community. Whether you're curious about the basics or looking to expand your skills, LeatherU breaks down techniques, safety, and sensation in a judgment-free space. Perfect for folks new to electro or wanting to learn alongside others in the scene.

A gathering for leather community members of color at the International Mr. Leather Beer Bust. Connect with others who share your identity and passion for leather culture in a space built for you.

The International Mr. Leather bootblack competition brings together the community's finest in service, skill, and style. Watch competitors demonstrate their craft, celebrate leather culture, and support the artistry that defines this cornerstone of the scene. A Saturday afternoon dedicated to excellence, community, and the boots that matter.

Learn the essentials of leather and rubber care, maintenance, and repair from the experts. This hands-on workshop covers cleaning techniques, conditioning, storage, and how to fix common wear and tear so your gear stays in top shape for years to come. Perfect for anyone serious about protecting their investment in quality leather and rubber pieces.

An educational workshop from Mufasa's Pride Productions diving into the physical and consensual practices of rough body play within the leather community. Learn techniques, safety practices, and how to communicate with partners in this hands-on afternoon session designed for curious newcomers and experienced folks alike.

A bold gathering uniting fisting clubs and communities in one space—part celebration, part education, all connection. Hosted by M.A.F.I.A. (Mid-America Fists in Action), a Chicago-rooted 501(c)(3) nonprofit building the nation's premier fisting organization. Whether you're seasoned, curious, or just looking to connect with your people, expect a vibrant, affirming, fiercely inclusive afternoon. Come feel the legacy. Come build the future.

A gathering hosted by Brianna Buni, PUP YOSHI, EMPRESS JESSICA, Boy PAULO, and THADDY KEWAL — five voices bringing energy, community, and celebration to a space made for BIPOC queer folks. Come connect, celebrate, and build with people who get it.

The Eagles are gathering for a night built for their community. APEX brings together bears and masculine-identified men for a high-energy party with DJ entertainment, dancing, and the kind of crowd that knows how to celebrate together. Late night, full volume, exactly what you're looking for.

A late-night social gathering for the gear community — the kind of night where you show up as yourself and find your people. Whether you're into leather, uniforms, or the whole aesthetic, this is where the Chicago gear scene connects, celebrates, and just has a good time together.

A sprawling marketplace bringing together over 50 vendors across 28,000 square feet — the kind of Sunday morning where you can browse everything from local makers to LGBTQ+-owned businesses all in one place. Perfect for finding something special, supporting community sellers, and discovering new favorites.

A Sunday gathering for the leather and bootblack community — whether you're into polishing, service, or just curious about the craft. This is where people who love gear, boots, and the culture come together in a low-pressure, welcoming space. Bring your boots, your knowledge, or just yourself.

Step into one of the world's most important collections of leather and LGBTQ+ history. The Leather Archives & Museum in Rogers Park houses decades of community artifacts, photography, and cultural documentation that tell the story of leather culture from the ground up. Whether you're deeply embedded in the scene or curious about this vital piece of queer history, it's a genuinely moving place to spend a Sunday morning.

A weekly gathering for folks in the leather community who are navigating recovery and sobriety. This is a safe, judgment-free space to connect with others who understand both the leather lifestyle and the challenges of staying sober. Sunday mornings, real talk, real community.

The inaugural collaboration between IMLBB and LA&M brings together emerging and established queer artists for an exhibition that challenges, provokes, and celebrates. Defiant/Restraint explores the tension between resistance and control through painting, sculpture, photography, and mixed media. A Sunday afternoon in the gallery becomes a moment to sit with work that matters.

Sunday afternoon gathering for the leather and bootblack community — a space to connect, share knowledge, and celebrate the craft and culture. Whether you're experienced or just curious about the scene, this is where the community comes together in a welcoming, judgment-free environment.

The leather community's casual Sunday afternoon gathering — a chance to connect with fellow leather folks, enjoy good cocktails, and soak in the camaraderie that makes this community special. Low-key and welcoming, exactly what a community social should be.

Metropolitan Community Church welcomes you to Sunday service — a space where faith and LGBTQ+ identity aren't at odds, they're woven together. This is church for people who've felt turned away elsewhere, where you'll find genuine community, spiritual grounding, and the kind of acceptance that actually feels like home.

The leather community's biggest night of the year — watch as competitors from around the world vie for the titles of International Mr. Leather and International Mr. Bootblack. This is the final round of one of the most prestigious contests in the leather world, drawing an audience of leather enthusiasts, community members, and supporters ready to celebrate excellence, artistry, and the values that define the community.

The celebration Chicago's leather community has earned—a victory party for International Mr. Leather Big Bear, bringing together the leather and bear communities for an evening of pride, camaraderie, and good people. This is the night the community gathers to honor the winner and revel in what makes this community special.

Monday morning pickup for art you've purchased. Swing by to collect your pieces and support local artists.

Fifty-plus vendors fill 28,000 square feet of the Congress Plaza Hotel with everything from fashion and art to crafts, jewelry, and local makers. Whether you're hunting for something specific or just browsing what the queer and allied small business community is creating, this is the kind of market where you'll find something you didn't know you needed. Ticketed event.

A safe, confidential space for people in the leather community navigating recovery from addiction. This weekly Monday gathering offers peer support, shared experience, and the kind of judgment-free community that gets what leather life means. Whether you're early in recovery or supporting someone who is, you'll find people who understand both sides of your story.

A Monday morning gathering for the leather and bootblack community to connect, share skills, and celebrate the craft. Whether you're experienced or just curious about the scene, this is a welcoming space to learn, polish, and build community with people who understand the culture.

A leather community celebration where bootblacks showcase their craft and artistry. This midday gathering brings together leather enthusiasts to appreciate the skill, tradition, and creativity that goes into bootblacking — from polishing techniques to custom designs. It's the kind of niche community event that reminds you how deep the leather world really goes.

An intimate reception for VIP ticket holders to meet the International Mr. Leather Bear and Boy winners. Enjoy champagne, light bites, and a photo opportunity with the winners in an exclusive setting.

Chicago's leather and formal wear celebration brings the community together for an evening of elegance, connection, and pride. Dress to impress in black tie, leather, or your finest formal wear for a night that honors the city's leather heritage and brings people together in style.