Mr. Eagle NYC Contest

Every October, The Eagle NYC turns its leather-bar identity into a full weekend competition with the Mr. Eagle NYC Contest, running Friday, October 2 through Sunday, October 4, 2026, at the club's West 28th Street location. The winner goes on to represent New York at International Mr. Leather in Chicago each May, giving the weekend a competitive stake beyond just a themed party.

What to expect

Friday opens with a Meet & Greet alongside the Eagle Weekend Opening Party. Saturday is the contest itself, a closed-door interview followed by an on-stage program judged by a panel that includes past Mr. Eagle winners, including the crowd-favorite Jock Question round, then rolls straight into Furball, an undergear dance party that's become the weekend's marquee night out. Sunday closes with a rooftop Victory Ball and beer bust running 5 to 9 p.m.

History and legacy

The Eagle itself has operated as a gay leather bar since 1970, with its current West 28th Street home dating to 2001. The Mr. Eagle contest has become more than a title competition over the years, past winners have used the platform to launch community initiatives, giving the weekend a thread of activism alongside the parties.

Getting there

The Eagle NYC sits at 554 W 28th Street, in Chelsea, an easy walk from the High Line and well served by the A, C, and E trains at 23rd Street.

Plan your trip

The Selina Chelsea New York sits within walking distance of the venue and works well as a base for the weekend. Tickets to Furball and the Victory Ball tend to move fast, so grabbing them ahead of time beats hoping for door sales.