by scott leonard
If you’ve ever wondered what it’s like to scream your heart out on a roller coaster next to a drag icon, this might be your year. Out on the Mountain, Southern California’s high-octane LGBTQ+ Pride party at Six Flags Magic Mountain, will return Friday, August 22 — and this year’s main attraction isn’t just the loops and drops.
Stepping into the spotlight for the 17th annual celebration will be none other than Kerri Colby, the glamazon from RuPaul’s Drag Race Season 14 and All Stars Season 10.
Known for her unapologetic confidence, boundary-pushing fashion and magnetic connection with fans, Colby will be bringing a fresh spin to the park — and this time, she will be packing glitter, SPF and a playlist.
“I’ve always loved Six Flags,” she tells The RAGE Monthly. “It was an iconic landmark in my life, from Texas to California. The rides terrify me a bit, but I’ve got to conquer my fears!”
And she won’t be alone. Joining her onstage will be pop powerhouse Bonnie McKee — the voice behind “American Girl” and the songwriting force behind many of Katy Perry’s biggest hits. Together, they’ll headline a night that will include multiple DJ dance zones, live performances, and exclusive nighttime access to thrill rides like Wonder Woman: Flight of Courage and CraZanity.
But Out on the Mountain isn’t just about spectacle. It’s about community, connection and creating a safe space for LGBTQ+ folks and allies to be exactly who they are — no apologies, no edits. As one of the event producers, David Fong, puts it: “Out on the Mountain is all about creating a safe, affirming night where everyone feels welcome.”
Colby couldn’t agree more. “Now more than ever, it’s time for us, the collective, to create spaces of community and enjoyment,” she says. “This is a perfect marriage of the two, and I’m honored to be part of it.”
While fans might know her best for slaying the runway and stirring hearts on Drag Race, Colby has recently been spinning a new kind of magic — behind the DJ booth. “Music has cured and healed me in ways I could never explain,” she says.
“When I conduct the atmosphere, I feel like I connect with my audience in a magical way. DJ-ing makes me so much more comfortable being onstage, just having fun.”
Don’t expect her to go quietly, either. “MUSIC! MUSIC! MUSIC!” she teases when asked what’s next. “I’m entering my sonic era — no hedgehog. I think people have just seen me for long enough. Now I want them to experience me.”
Whether she’s behind the decks or dazzling the crowd in sequins, Colby brings more than performance — she brings purpose. “Don’t ever, ever, ever make yourself small to feel like you’ll fit in,” she tells her young queer fans. “Be who you are called to be!”
That ethos is what Out on the Mountain has been celebrating since its inception. With proceeds supporting organizations such as The Trevor Project, The OUTreach Center, PFLAG Santa Clarita and local GSA chapters, the event seamlessly blends celebration with activism, creating a space for joy while uplifting the community.
Past performers have included names like Tyler Glenn of Neon Trees, Martha Wash of “It’s Raining Men” fame, and a dazzling roster of Drag Race royalty — from Alaska to Luxx Noir London. And yet, each year finds a new way to turn up the volume.
From the scream-inducing drops to the beat-filled dance floors, and every shimmering snack break in between, Out on the Mountain will offer something magical for everyone. Just take it from Colby, who has already packed the essentials: “SPF and some glitter!”
General admission and VIP Package tickets are available. Guests can enter during regular hours and stay late for the private LGBTQ+ party from 6 p.m. to midnight. And don’t forget — thrills are more fabulous when shared. outonthemountain.com
BONNIE MCKEE’S POP POWER AND PRIDE
Bonnie McKee isn’t just a pop hitmaker; she’s a bold, unapologetic force whose music and presence resonate deeply with the LGBTQ+ community. Best known for co-writing massive chart-toppers like Katy Perry’s “Teenage Dream,” “Roar” and “California Gurls,” as well as Britney Spears’ “Hold It Against Me,” McKee stepped into the spotlight with her own electric sound and fearless personality.
In 2014, she publicly came out as bisexual, telling Joan Rivers on In Bed With Joan that her queerness was something she embraced from a young age: “I think all little girls kind of play ‘doctor’ with their girlfriends, and then I kind of never grew out of it.” Since then, McKee has proudly represented queer visibility in pop, pairing powerhouse vocals with bold, high-gloss aesthetics that echo her journey of self-expression.
Her 2024 album Hot City — a long-shelved passion project finally released independently — pulses with 1980s synth-pop, feminine swagger and neon-soaked nostalgia. Queer fans have hailed it as a soundtrack of self-discovery, freedom and fun. A glittery rebellion that mirrors their own lived experiences.
At Out on the Mountain, McKee will bring that same energy to the stage. Expect a set filled with fierce vocals, dance-floor bangers, and the kind of pure pop catharsis that’s made her a favorite among LGBTQ+ audiences. For fans, it’s more than a concert — it’s a celebration of identity, Pride and the joy of being unapologetically yourself.
SIX FLAGS MAGIC MOUNTAIN FUN FACTS
The Coaster Capital
With 19 roller coasters, Six Flags Magic Mountain holds the world record for the most coasters in a single park. That’s more loops, drops and airtime than anywhere else on Earth.
Revolutionary Ride
In 1976, The New Revolution became the world’s first modern roller coaster with a vertical loop. It still thrills riders today — with or without the optional VR headset.
Superhero HQ
This is the place where DC Comics fans can fly, spin and drop like their favorite heroes. Hop on Wonder Woman: Flight of Courage, race through Batman: The Ride, or plunge 400 feet on Lex Luthor: Drop of Doom.
Hollywood on Rails
Magic Mountain has been a scene-stealer in film and TV, including National Lampoon’s Vacation, Step by Step and even This Is Us. Some coasters have starred more than once.
Twisted Tradition
The legendary Colossus was reborn as Twisted Colossus, blending classic wood with high-tech steel. The result? A wild, dueling ride that feels like two coasters in one.
Backward Bonus
Some coasters, including Batman and the former Colossus, have been known to run in reverse for special events. Because sometimes thrill-seekers like to scream facing backwards.
Year-Round Scream Scene
Thanks to SoCal sunshine, Magic Mountain is open all year with seasonal events like Fright Fest, Holiday in the Park and the LGBTQ+ favorite, Out on the Mountain.