Provincetown Bear Week Itinerary

Provincetown Bear Week is one of the most beloved gatherings in the bear community. Held annually in mid-July, it transforms this tiny Cape Cod town into a week-long celebration of body positivity, community, and fun.

What is Bear Week?

Bear Week is an annual gathering of the bear community — typically larger, often hairier gay and bisexual men and their admirers — in Provincetown, Massachusetts. The week features:

• Pool parties and tea dances
• Bear Week Parade down Commercial Street
• Themed parties and events at local venues
• Comedy shows and drag performances
• Beach days and whale watching
• The crowning of Mr. Provincetown Bear

Why Provincetown?

Provincetown (P-town) has been a haven for the LGBTQ+ community for over a century. The town at the tip of Cape Cod has a year-round queer culture, but Bear Week brings a specific, joyful energy. The entire town participates — restaurants, shops, and venues all welcome the bear community.

Getting there

• Drive — from Boston (~2 hours plus Cape Cod traffic) or NYC (~5 hours)
• Ferry — fast ferry from Boston to Provincetown (90 minutes, seasonal)
• Fly — Cape Air flies from Boston to Provincetown (25 minutes)

Where to stay

Book early — P-town is small and Bear Week fills up fast. Options:

• Guesthouses and B&Bs — the classic P-town experience. Many are LGBTQ-owned.
• Hotels — limited options but available
• Vacation rentals — good for groups

Tips

• Book months in advance — Provincetown accommodations are limited and Bear Week is popular
• Rent bikes — P-town is small enough to bike everywhere and parking is a nightmare
• Try the seafood — you're on Cape Cod. Lobster rolls and oysters are mandatory.
• Respect the town — P-town is a real community, not just a party destination

Related guides

• Bear and Leather Pride Guide — broader bear/leather community guide
• Budget Tips — P-town can be pricey; save where you can