Max HeyraudAfter 10 years as a cornerstone of Belfast’s queer community, Ponyhawke have announced that their upcoming 10th birthday party on December 6th will also be their final event.
The party explained that the decision had been brewing for some time. “It’s something we’ve both been feeling and talking over since last year,” they said. “Personal energy levels, the desire to do other things, coupled with the increasingly difficult climate of running a club night, let alone the stress and responsibility of running a queer space.”
Run by Maz and Dillon, who also serve as residents, Ponyhawke was founded in 2015 and began life at The Pavilion, a DIY gathering that offered Belfast’s queer club community a space of their own. What started as an intimate party for friends soon found its spiritual home at The Menagerie, the now-legendary dive bar that went on to host some of the city’s most memorable queer raves, including an especially iconic Pride collaboration with Queertopia NI.
From there, a move to Ulster Sports Club marked a major turning point. What began as an intimate dance for 80 people grew into a sold-out monthly club night of 300, transforming Ponyhawke into a pillar of Belfast’s underground queer scene. The collective also hosted socials, workshops and exhibitions to build community beyond their club shows.
Reflecting on the night’s legacy, the founders say they’re stepping away with pride. “We feel we’re leaving with Belfast in bloom, with new queer gatherings burning with desire to take up space. Knowing when to step aside and let fresh faces push through is part of the process.”
They also paid tribute to the team behind the scenes, Fiona McDonnell, whose artwork became synonymous with Ponyhawke’s identity; Siobhan, for her support and knowledge; and door legends Hannah and Addison, among many others who helped sustain the night’s inclusive spirit.
