Frequently Asked Questions
First time at
Lazy Bear week?
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Lazy Bear Week is a week-long gathering of bears, cubs, otters, admirers, and friends held each summer in Guerneville, California, in the heart of the Russian River redwoods.
What began in 1996 as a small weekend get-together has grown into one of the largest and longest-running bear events in the world. Throughout the week, attendees enjoy pool parties, campfires, tea dances, game nights, live entertainment, outdoor activities, social events, and plenty of opportunities to meet new people and reconnect with old friends.
Lazy Bear Week is a fundraiser. Proceeds from bear tags, merchandise, sponsorships, and other activities support the Lazy Bear Fund's grant program, which provides funding to organizations that improve the health and well-being of LGBTQ+ communities.
Most importantly, Lazy Bear Week is about community. Whether you're a first-time attendee or returning for your 30th year, you'll find a welcoming environment built around friendship, fun, and giving back.
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No. While Lazy Bear Week was founded by and for the bear community, attendees include bears, cubs, otters, wolves, admirers, allies, and people who simply enjoy the welcoming atmosphere of the event.
You do not need to identify as a bear to attend. What matters most is having a positive attitude, respecting others, and embracing the spirit of community that has made Lazy Bear Week special.
At its heart, Lazy Bear Week celebrates connection, friendship, and belonging. Whether you’re a longtime member of the bear community or attending for the first time, you’re welcome here.
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A Bear Tag is your all-access pass to Lazy Bear Week.
Your Bear Tag includes admission to the week's scheduled activities, including pool parties, campfires, tea dances, game nights, entertainment, social gatherings, and many other events held throughout the week.
A Bear Tag also helps support the Lazy Bear Fund and its grant program, which provides funding to organizations serving LGBTQ+ communities.
In addition to event access, Bear Tag holders receive discounts at some local merchants, restaurants and wineries
Most importantly, a Bear Tag isn’t just admission to a collection of events, it’s your invitation to be part of the Lazy Bear community for the week.
HOUSING &
Lodging
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Most Lazy Bear Week attendees stay in Guerneville and the surrounding Russian River area. Hotels, resorts, vacation rentals, campgrounds, and private homes are all popular options.
Because lodging in Guerneville is limited, we encourage attendees to make reservations as early as possible. Nearby communities such as Monte Rio, Rio Nido, Forestville, Santa Rosa, and Sebastopol can also be convenient places to stay.
One of the best resources for finding accommodations is the Lazy Bear Week Housing & Transportation Forum, where attendees frequently post available rooms, vacation rentals, roommate opportunities, and ride-sharing options.
If you're attending for the first time, don't panic if local lodging appears sold out. Every year, attendees successfully find places to stay through the forum and the broader Lazy Bear community.
Visit our Forum to explore available options and connect with other attendees.
DISCLAIMER: LAZY BEAR WEEK ATTENDEES ARE RESPONSIBLE FOR THEIR OWN ACCOMMODATIONS AND TRANSPORTATION. -
Don't give up.
Every year, attendees find places to stay after local hotels and resorts appear to be fully booked. In addition to traditional lodging, many attendees share vacation rentals, offer spare rooms, look for roommates, or stay in nearby communities and travel into Guerneville for events.
The Lazy Bear Week Housing & Transportation Forum is one of the best resources for finding last-minute accommodations and connecting with other attendees. New opportunities often become available as travel plans change closer to the event.
Nearby communities such as Monte Rio, Rio Nido, Forestville, Sebastopol, and Santa Rosa can also provide additional lodging options.
If you're flexible and start looking early, there's a good chance you'll find something that works.
DISCLAIMER: LAZY BEAR WEEK ATTENDEES ARE RESPONSIBLE FOR THEIR OWN ACCOMMODATIONS AND TRANSPORTATION. -
Absolutely.
Many Lazy Bear Week attendees share hotel rooms, vacation rentals, houses, and other accommodations with friends, partners, or fellow attendees. Sharing lodging can be a great way to reduce costs, meet new people, and make attending the event more affordable.
If you're looking for a roommate, have extra space available, or are interested in sharing accommodations, visit the Lazy Bear Week Housing & Transportation Forum. Every year, attendees use the forum to connect with others and coordinate lodging arrangements.
As with any shared accommodation, we recommend communicating clearly about expectations, costs, arrival and departure dates, and house rules before making arrangements.
DISCLAIMER: LAZY BEAR WEEK ATTENDEES ARE RESPONSIBLE FOR THEIR OWN ACCOMMODATIONS AND TRANSPORTATION.
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Lazy Bear Week takes place in Guerneville, California, in the heart of the Russian River redwoods, approximately 75 miles north of San Francisco.
Most attendees arrive by car, but there are several ways to get here:
By Air
The closest airport is Charles M. Schulz–Sonoma County Airport (STS) in Santa Rosa, approximately 30 minutes from Guerneville.
Many attendees also fly into:
San Francisco International Airport (SFO) – approximately 2 hours away
Oakland International Airport (OAK) – approximately 2 hours away
From any of these airports, attendees typically rent a car, arrange a rideshare, or coordinate transportation with other attendees.
By Car
Guerneville is easily accessible from throughout Northern California and is approximately:
• 30 minutes from Santa Rosa
• 2 hours from San Francisco
• 2 hours from Oakland
• 2½ hours from SacramentoBy Public Transportation
Limited public transportation is available between Santa Rosa and Guerneville through Sonoma County Transit. However, most attendees find driving or ride-sharing to be more convenient.
Ride Sharing
The Lazy Bear Week Housing & Transportation Forum is one of the best resources for arranging rides to and from airports, sharing rental cars, and coordinating transportation with other attendees.
If you're attending for the first time, don't hesitate to use the forum. Many attendees are happy to share rides and help newcomers find their way to the Russian River.
Disclaimer: LAZY BEAR WEEK ATTENDEES ARE RESPONSIBLE FOR THEIR OWN ACCOMMODATIONS AND TRANSPORTATION. -
Not necessarily.
Many Lazy Bear Week venues are located within Guerneville and are within walking distance of one another. Once you've arrived, it's entirely possible to enjoy much of the week without having your own vehicle.
Some activities, such as hikes, winery visits, and excursions outside of town, may require transportation. Attendees share rides with friends and fellow attendees.
During Lazy Bear Week, Bill's Taxi operates multiple vehicles and vans serving Guerneville and the surrounding Russian River communities, including Rio Nido, Monte Rio, Northwood, Hacienda Bridge, Summerhome Park, Mirabel Heights, and Cazadero. Special rates are available for Bear Tag holders.
Information about local transportation options, including Bill's Taxi, can be found at Lazy Bear HQ and in the printed program distributed during the week.
Disclaimer: LAZY BEAR WEEK ATTENDEES ARE RESPONSIBLE FOR THEIR OWN ACCOMMODATIONS AND TRANSPORTATION. -
Many Lazy Bear Week attendees share rides to and from airports, lodging, events, and activities throughout the week. Ride sharing is a great way to reduce transportation costs, meet other attendees, and make getting around the Russian River area easier.
The Lazy Bear Week Housing & Transportation Forum is the best place to connect with other attendees who are offering rides, looking for rides, sharing rental cars, or coordinating travel plans.
As with any ride-sharing arrangement, we recommend communicating clearly about schedules, pickup locations, luggage, and any shared expenses before making plans.
Disclaimer: LAZY BEAR WEEK ATTENDEES ARE RESPONSIBLE FOR THEIR OWN ACCOMMODATIONS AND TRANSPORTATION.
Transport
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No. Lazy Bear Week has been an all-week Bear Tag event since 2021, and we do not offer day passes or single-event admissions.
The all-week format helps create a stronger sense of community, simplifies event operations, reduces wait times and capacity issues at venues, and allows attendees to enjoy the full Lazy Bear Week experience.
For those where cost is a concern, the Lazy Bear Fund offers complimentary Bear Tags to volunteers who complete 8 hours of service during the week.
For information about volunteering, please visit the Volunteer section of our website.
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Yes. The Lazy Bear Fund offers complimentary Bear Tags to volunteers who complete 8 hours of service during Lazy Bear Week.
Volunteers play an important role in helping make the week a success, assisting with activities such as event support, setup, check-in, merchandise sales, transportation assistance, and other operational needs.
Some volunteer assignments may involve standing for extended periods, lifting and moving supplies, setting up or breaking down equipment, bending, carrying boxes, or other physical tasks. Volunteer duties vary by assignment.Because many volunteers return year after year, volunteer shift selection follows a priority system. Returning volunteers are generally given the first opportunity to select available shifts before remaining positions are opened to new volunteers.
Volunteer opportunities and signup information are typically announced prior to the event. If you're interested in volunteering, we encourage you to sign up as early as possible, as some positions fill quickly.
Volunteering is a great way to give back, meet people, and help support theLazy Bear Fund while enjoying the week.
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No, but read on… Donations made in exchange for Bear Tags are non-refundable. (see rationale below)
If you are unable to attend, you may transfer your Bear Tag to another person through Eventbrite via this link.
Please note: You may not sell or resell Lazy Bear Week Bear Tags through any Lazy Bear Fund website, forum, social media page, or online community.
If you choose to transfer your tag to another person, please make those arrangements independently and then transfer the Bear Tag through Eventbrite.
Why we do not allow refunds:
Lazy Bear Week is a fundraiser, and the proceeds from bear tag donations help support event operations as well as the Lazy Bear Fund's grant program benefiting LGBTQ+ organizations and communities. Because the Fund begins making financial commitments well in advance of the event, we are unable to provide refunds for unused bear tags, schedule changes, travel disruptions, weather conditions, or changes in personal circumstances.
Bear tags
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Lazy Bear Week offers a wide variety of activities throughout the week, giving attendees plenty of opportunities to relax, socialize, explore, and connect with the community.
Events vary from year to year but often include:
Pool parties
Campfires
Tea Dances
Game Nights
Mini Golf
Trivia & Social Games
Live Entertainment & DJs
Hikes & Outdoor Activities
Movies & Special Presentations
Wine tasting experiences
Community Gatherings and Friends of Bill meetups
Merchandise Drops & Vendor Events
Some attendees pack their schedules from morning to late night, while others prefer to spend their time relaxing by the river, exploring the Russian River area, or simply enjoying time with friends.
A detailed schedule is published before the event and included in the printed program distributed during the week.
No matter your interests, you'll find plenty of opportunities to participate—or simply take things at your own pace.
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Yes. A preliminary schedule is typically published between mid-June and late July as activities, entertainment, and special events are finalized.
The most current schedule will be available here prior to the event.
During Lazy Bear Week, schedules are also included in the printed program and are posted at Lazy Bear HQ and select daytime event locations throughout the week.
Because schedules are subject to change, attendees are encouraged to check the website, printed program, and posted updates for the latest information.
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Usually not. Most Lazy Bear Week activities are open to all Bear Tag holders and are available on a first-come, first-served basis.
Occasionally, certain activities may have limited capacity and require advance registration or reservations. Examples might include special tasting experiences, excursions, workshops, or other events where attendance must be capped.
When signups are required, details will be included in the event schedule and announced through official Lazy Bear Week communication channels.
For example, some specialty experiences, such as winery tastings at Martin Ray, may require advance reservations due to limited space.
As always, we recommend reviewing the schedule regularly and arriving early for popular events.
Events
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Lazy Bear Week is committed to making the event as accessible and welcoming as possible.
Many of the venues and activities used during the week offer accessible features, but accessibility can vary by location because Lazy Bear Week takes place across multiple independently owned venues throughout Guerneville and the Russian River area.
We work with our venue partners to comply with applicable accessibility requirements and encourage attendees with specific accessibility needs to contact us in advance so we can help identify suitable accommodations, venues, and event options.
If you have questions about mobility access, accessible parking, seating, restrooms, lodging, or other accessibility concerns, please contact us before your visit and we'll do our best to assist.
ACCESSIBILITY
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In 2026, Lazy Bear HQ will be located at: 16246 First Street
Guerneville, CA 95446Our 2026 HQ is located in the former McT's Bull Pen. Please enter through the parking lot entrance.
Bear Tags, event information, merchandise, special events and other attendee resources will be available at HQ throughout the week.
HQ is also a great place to get answers to questions, learn about activities happening around town, and connect with other attendees.
Hours of operation will be:
Monday 7/27: 10am–5pm
Tuesday 7/28: 10am–5pm
Wednesday 7/29: 10am–8pm
Thursday 7/30: 10am–8pm
Friday 7/31: 10am–8pm
Saturday 8/1: 10am–8pm
If you are arriving after the HQ has closed and want to attend an evening event, bring your confirmation email to the venue and show to the volunteers at the event’s entrance. -
The Lazy Bear Week merchandise store offers a wide variety of items celebrating the event, the bear community, and the Russian River experience.
Merchandise varies from year to year but often includes:
T-shirts
Tank tops
Swimwear
Blankets
Hats & Headwear
Pins & Patches
Tote Bags & Accessories
Collectible Anniversary Items
Limited-edition Releases
Specialty Collaborations with artists, creators, and community partners
Many items are produced in limited quantities and some exclusive merchandise is only available during Lazy Bear Week.
The merchandise store is located at Lazy Bear HQ and is open throughout the week and some is sold at the event venues. New items, special releases, and limited-edition products may be introduced during the event, so attendees are encouraged to stop by more than once.
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Yes. A selection of official Lazy Bear Fund and Lazy Bear Week merchandise is available year-round through our online store.
Items and designs available online may differ from those offered during Lazy Bear Week, and certain limited-edition or event-exclusive items may only be available in person at Lazy Bear HQ.
Visit our online store at:
https://www.bonfire.com/store/lazy-bear-fund/
For the largest selection and access to limited-edition releases, be sure to visit the merchandise store at Lazy Bear HQ during the event.
HQ & MERCHANDISE
How to pack
& prepare
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Days are typically warm and sunny, with afternoon temperatures often reaching the 80s and occasionally the 90s. The river, pools, and shady redwood groves provide plenty of ways to stay comfortable during the day.
One thing first-time visitors often don't expect is how much temperatures can cool down after sunset. Even after a hot afternoon, evenings around the campfire can feel surprisingly chilly, especially under the redwoods.
Our advice: pack for both summer afternoons and cool evenings. Swimwear, sunscreen, hats, and lightweight clothing are great for daytime activities, while a sweatshirt, light jacket, or long sleeves can make campfires and late-night events much more comfortable.
And yes, sunscreen is your friend.
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Most Lazy Bear Week events are casual, and attendees are encouraged to wear whatever makes them comfortable.
That said, a few events have fun themes that inspire people to dress for the occasion. Popular examples include Onesies Night at the campfire, the Singlets & Speedos pool party, and the Kaftans by the pool.
Participation is entirely optional. Whether you show up in theme attire, shorts and a t-shirt, or something in between, you'll fit right in.
If you're looking to join the fun, themed apparel and accessories are often available in the Lazy Bear merchandise store throughout the week.
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Yes.
Guerneville is a small resort town, but you'll find most everyday necessities available locally, including a grocery store, health food store pharmacy, novelty stores, convenience items, restaurants, coffee shops, liquor stores, and other essentials.
If you forget something, there's a good chance you'll be able to find it in town without much trouble.
For larger shopping trips, specialty items, or big-box retailers, you'll likely need to travel to Santa Rosa, which is approximately 30 minutes away by car.
Our recommendation: bring any medications, specialty items, or hard-to-find products with you, but don't worry if you forget sunscreen, snacks, toiletries, or other common necessities. Guerneville has you covered.
ABOUT THE
LAZY BEAR FUND
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Yes. Lazy Bear Week is produced by the Lazy Bear Fund, a nonprofit organization dedicated to supporting LGBTQ+ communities through charitable giving.
Since its founding, the event has raised and distributed millions of dollars to nonprofit organizations that improve the health, well-being, and quality of life of LGBTQ+ individuals and communities.
Proceeds from Bear Tag donations, merchandise, sponsorships, and other fundraising activities help support the Fund's annual grant program.
When you participate in Lazy Bear Week, you're not just attending a week of events—you're helping support organizations that make a meaningful difference in the lives of others.
To learn more about the Lazy Bear Fund and its grant recipients, visit the Grants section on our website’s home page.
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The Lazy Bear Fund distributes proceeds from Lazy Bear Week through an annual grant program that supports nonprofit organizations serving LGBTQ+ communities.
Grant recipients vary from year to year, but typically include organizations focused on health and wellness, youth services, housing and social support, arts and culture, community building, and other programs that improve the lives of LGBTQ+ individuals.
The Fund's Board of Directors reviews grant applications and awards funding to organizations whose work aligns with the Fund's charitable mission.
In addition to supporting grant recipients, a portion of event revenue helps cover the costs of producing Lazy Bear Week and operating the Fund throughout the year.
Information about recent grant recipients and the grant program can be found on our website’s home page (scroll down).
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The Lazy Bear Fund awards grants to nonprofit organizations whose work supports the health, well-being, and quality of life of LGBTQ+ individuals and communities.
Grant recipients have included organizations focused on areas such as:
• LGBTQ+ youth services
• Health and wellness programs
• Housing and supportive services
• Community building and advocacy
• Arts and cultural organizations
• HIV/AIDS support and education
• Mental health and social servicesOrganizations apply through the Fund's grant program, and applications are reviewed by the Lazy Bear Fund Board of Directors.
Recent grant recipients have included organizations such as Food For Thought, Maitri, the Positive Resource Center, the San Francisco Gay Men's Chorus, Lyric, MPACT, the Russian River Alliance, and The Spahr Center.
A current list of grant recipients and information about the grant program can be found on our website.