what is gutterball anyway?
Debuting in Guelph’s queer nightlife scene in 2024, Gutterball continues the legacy of boundary-pushing queer parties in the city dating back decades. Since its launch, Gutterball is the most popular queer rave in Guelph, setting the standard for high energy sets, stunning visual effects, and an online presence which has amassed a cult-like following which grows with every party. By consistently selling out venues like Red Papaya, Which Craft, and Sonic Hall, Gutterball is poised to have its biggest year yet in 2026.
Founded by Summer Lodewyks, local community organizer and manager of the popular music venue Sonic Hall. Gutterball features a rotating cast of local DJs and prioritizes giving opportunities for new and emerging queer DJs by offering a welcoming space for dancers and DJs alike.
Featured DJs include: SUMMERR, BODYWALTZ, ANGELPU$$Y, TH!CKUM$, DIVAA, SLAMBOXXX, and more.
Photo by Alex Whinton (instagram: @alexwhinton)
history
In the wake of Fierce Guelph announcing it would no longer be able to continue their monthly Queer dance party, Summer Lodewyks (DJ SUMMERR) and Em Wright (DJ BODYWALTZ) decide to carry on the legacy of queer raves in Guelph by hosting the very first Gutterball (then called The Gutter Ball). On November 1, an overwhelming number of community members showed up for the halloween themed rave hosted at Red Papaya.
November 1, 2024
January 17, 2025
Back for another event, Gutterball moves locations in search of a venue that will allow them to go past 1am. They land at Which Craft and completely sell out over a week before the event.
April 18, 2025
Gutterball finally finds a more permanent home at Sonic Hall. A space with a much larger capacity to host the growing number of Gutterballers. This was the first Gutterball with a defined theme: Office Siren.
2025 and onward...
To finish out the 2025 year, Gutterball hosted 3 more events, each more exciting than the last. Implementing live visual effects by Evan Gordon, and a variety of fresh faces behind the decks. Themes included: Leather & Lace, Vampires Vixens & Villains, and Bloody Valentine.