Beloved community event Brighton Bear Weekend, which this year took place from July 11 – 14, was a weekend brimming with excitement, camaraderie, and, of course, the crowning of the new Brighton Bear 2024, which was this year won by Francisco Guillen.
Raising funds for Brighton Rainbow Fund and the Sussex Beacon, Brighton Bear Weekend’s Mr Brighton Bear is a much-loved tradition, where the community comes together to choose a Bear who embodies the spirit and energy of Brighton Bear Weekend. The competition is not just about looks; it’s about celebrating our vibrant bear community’s character, charm, and contribution.
The election of Brighton Bear 2024 is more than just a title – it’s a symbol of the community’s values and spirit. The chosen Bear will represent Brighton Bear Weekend throughout the year, promoting inclusivity, pride, and the unique culture that makes Brighton Bear Weekend so special!
We caught up with this year’s Mr Brighton Bear, Francisco Guillen…
Hi Francisco, congratulations on winning Mr Brighton Bear. How was this year’s Brighton Bear Weekend?
It was amazing. But quite nerve racking for me as I was busy getting ready for the competition. But I found time to party too.
Brighton Bear Weekend is a brilliant Brighton community event, it must be great to spend a weekend with likeminded guys?
Definitely as I get to meet lots of new people as well as seeing old friends too. It’s amazing who you bump into.
What do you have planned for your year as Mr Brighton Bear?
Well, I’ve just come back from Torremolinos MAD.BEAR which was fun. Lots of parties and I’m also going to BearScots too in October. I’m really looking forward to that. Plus a few things in the pipeline.
Can you tell us about yourself and what you like to get up to?
Well I turned 50 this year ( I know it’s hard to believe, haha). I’ve lived in Brighton for 13 years and I love socialising, dancing, singing, tailoring and cooking. I’ve been with my partner for eight years and we are getting married next March.
I love going to the Bear Social at Arcobeleno which is followed on with Bears at the Fallen Angel on the first Saturday of every month and I enjoy going to the leathermen nights at the Bulldog. I love to Boogie on Down at the Almanac, which is an alternative disco every last Sunday afternoon. Plus I go to DILF too when it’s on. I do get about a bit lol.
How long have you been involved in the Bear community?
Oh quite a few years. About 15 I think, maybe longer.
How did you get involved in Brighton Bear Weekend?
Oh my, that a long story. Around when the Bear Weekend first started I was asked if I would be the dolly dealer. If you remember TV game show Play Your Cards Right you will know what I mean. I said yes not realising they wanted me to do it in a jock strap. But I’d already said yes. Strangely I did it for four years after that. But I’m a huge supporter of the Bear Weekend. It’s a great weekend plus it raises money for a great charity, the Brighton Rainbow Fund.
Why did you enter Mr Brighton Bear?
Well, people have been asking me to do it for years and I’ve always said no. Also, my confidence has slightly wavered over the last few years. But this year I turned 50 and I thought why not it would be something great to do on my 50th year. I also love Brighton. Not just the Bears but all of our community here.
What would you say to those thinking of entering Mr Brighton Bear 2025?
Do it. You get to meet lots of great people. If you love this city and you want to be an ambassador for a Bear community, what have you got to lose. Plus it’s just a bit of fun and all for a great cause!