About The Brave Bull
The Brave Bull is a decades-old LGBTQ+ bar and nightclub on South 9th Street in Modesto, California (www.ebar.com ). It first opened in 1973 (becoming a gay bar in 1974) and has been owned by the Lubbers family for much of its history (www.ebar.com ). For nearly 50 years it has been a cornerstone of Modesto’s queer community – in fact, GayCities even lists it as “inclusive since 1974” and a “rowdy hot spot packed with gays, lesbians, and friends” (modesto.gaycities.com ) (www.ebar.com ). The Brave Bull was so iconic that drag queen legend “Marlena” (Gary McLain, a co-owner in the 1970s) credits it with inspiring his later career in San Francisco (www.ebar.com ). Inside you’ll find a lively club atmosphere – an open dance floor under a giant disco ball, multiple bars serving cocktails, and a simple stage for performances (Little formal seating). Regulars describe the Brave Bull’s décor as friendly and festive (complete with a huge silver disco ball) (the-brave-bull.restaurants-world.com ). The venue can pack a few hundred guests on busy nights – Sunday drag shows routinely draw 200–400 people to a “packed” house (www.ebar.com ) – so it feels energetic even at modest capacity. In short, Brave Bull is not just any bar: it’s one of the Central Valley’s oldest gay clubs and a beloved local landmark with deep roots in Modesto’s nightlife and LGBTQ+ history.
Events and Programming
The Brave Bull’s calendar is anchored by lively weekly and special events. Most weekends feature guest DJs and themed dance nights – for example, Friday and Saturday nights often turn into a full nightclub dance party with house, pop, disco or EDM music. Wednesday through Sunday it’s open to the public and usually full of music and entertainment. The crown jewel of the Brave Bull’s programming is its drag show. Longtime patrons report that Sunday drag shows are hugely popular – so popular that on Sundays “the place is packed” with 200–400 cheering drag fans (www.ebar.com ). These drag performances showcase local talent (and sometimes touring queen acts) in flamboyant costumes, lip-sync routines and comedy. Karaoke and open-mic nights are also a staple – notably a weekly open-mic/karaoke show hosted by local performer Moon Trent (a Modesto veteran turned San Francisco songwriter) and drag hostess Melinda (qlist.app ) (www.ebar.com ). In fact, Moon Trent says he launched the bar’s current karaoke and song circle in 2019, which became so popular that the Brave Bull added a Thursday night just to accommodate it (www.ebar.com ). On special occasions – Halloween, Pride month or community fundraisers – Brave Bull stages extra events: it’s hosted Halloween parties and even softball-team benefit nights in the past (www.ebar.com ) (www.ebar.com ). Ticket pricing is usually very affordable: many events simply have a small door cover (often around $5–$10 on busy nights) and no advance online tickets. (Most Brave Bull events are general admission; there is no reserved seating.) Overall, you’ll find an eclectic mix of drag, dance/DJ sets, karaoke, and sometimes acoustic or variety shows – all with a friendly, party vibe that crosses generations.
Tickets and Booking
The Brave Bull does not have an official box office or online ticket portal. Instead, events are generally pay-at-door. On nights with special performances (like drag shows or guest DJs) the club often charges a small cover fee at the entrance, usually in the single digits. In practice, you’ll typically arrive any time after opening and pay one flat cover (around $5–$10) to get in. There is no online advance ticket sales; popular nights can sell out of standing-room space, so promoters often advise arriving early. Booking in advance is not needed – just plan to show your valid photo ID at the door (21+ is required for entry since this is a full bar). The Brave Bull does not take reservations, and seating/standing spots are first-come-first-served. In short: to see a show, just check the Brave Bull’s social media or event listings for upcoming acts, then show up early on the night of the event, pay the door charge (if any) at the door, and bring your ID (evendo.com ) (www.chamberofcommerce.com ). Tip: Drag shows and big weekends can have lines or fill quickly, so early arrival is recommended, as local tips note that “seating can fill up quickly” (evendo.com ).
Seating and Layout
The Brave Bull’s interior is essentially one open room. A large stage stands at one end (often framed by curtains or neon signs), facing a dance floor. Several high-top tables line the perimeter near the stage and along the walls – those provide the only seating. However, on most event nights (DJ sets, drag shows, karaoke) the crowd stands or dances by the stage. During a show or busy dance night, the best vantage is usually standing near the front of the stage or in the center of the dance floor. There is some barstool seating (at the bar tops) and a few booths against the walls, but it’s generally general-admission standing room. If you want to sit, try for a high-top table as soon as you arrive. The bars themselves are along the sides and the back wall; bartenders will usually come out sometimes to serve those near the stage as well. The overall acoustics are typical of a nightclub – loud and bass-heavy – which suits dancing but can be less ideal for quiet conversation. (If volume is a concern, standing farther from the main speakers helps.) In short, there is no reserved seating or sections here. You’ll be in the same open floor as the crowd. The “best seat” depends on preference: closer to the stage for the view (and ability to tip performers), or further back to chat and enjoy the vibe. Because it’s an all-ages (mostly 21+) party scene, there is no “VIP balcony” or anything; everyone mixes on the same floor. One unique feature is the giant rotating disco ball overhead that lights up the dance floor – it’s an Instagram-worthy centerpiece of the club (the-brave-bull.restaurants-world.com ).
Getting There and Parking
The Brave Bull’s address is 701 S 9th Street, Modesto, CA 95351 (at Sonora Avenue, just south of downtown). It’s a block south of the train tracks, on a quiet side street. Driving directions are straightforward: it’s about a 5-minute drive from Highway 99 (take Exit 433B to Downtown/Redwood). For parking, you’ll generally rely on downtown streets or city lots. There is a City of Modesto parking garage just two blocks north at 9th & L Streets (between G and I Streets) and another multi-storey garage on 11th Street between I & J. These garages have flat rates around $1.25 per hour (www.modestogov.com ). There are also pay-by-space lots nearby (e.g. between 9th & I on H Street, or on 10th Street). On-street parking is metered ($1.25/hr) during the day (6 am–6 pm) but is often free in the evening after 6 pm. Note that parking can be tight on busy weekend nights, so many patrons recommend carpooling or ride-share services (evendo.com ). Public transit: Modesto Area Express (StanRTA) buses run to a downtown transit hub just a few blocks from Brave Bull (around 9th & D Streets). From the Modesto downtown transit center, it’s a short 5–10 minute walk south on 9th St. If taking a taxi or rideshare (Uber/Lyft), simply use the Brave Bull address; drop-offs happen right on Sonora Ave in front of the club. In summary, the venue is very accessible from all parts of Modesto – with nearby paid garages ($1.25/hr (www.modestogov.com )), street parking, and bus/taxi routes all within walking distance.
Inside the Venue
When you enter The Brave Bull, expect a casual club atmosphere. After showing ID at the door, you walk into a dimly lit bar space with neon and colorful disco lighting. Dominating the ceiling is a large rotating disco ball, reflecting spotlights around the room (one review calls it an “enormous disco ball” that “sets the tone” for the night (the-brave-bull.restaurants-world.com )). The walls are decorated with mirrors, posters, Pride flags, and cheeky signs reflecting its queer-friendly vibe. The club has two bars – one at the front and one at the rear – with stocked liquor bottles and taps. Bartenders are known to be friendly and quick (and will gladly mix classic cocktails or try something creative). While there isn’t a full kitchen, the Brave Bull makes up for it with a fun cocktail menu; local tips note that their “signature cocktails…are a highlight of the menu” (evendo.com ). The music is pumped through a solid sound system (fitting its historic reputation as having once installed a “super disco sound system” in the 1970s (www.ebar.com )) – so expect loud beats and deep bass. Cell phone service and Wi-Fi can be spotty given the crowd and noise, so it’s mostly a get-in-the-moment venue. There are unisex restrooms on site. If you need to ditch coats or bags, there may be a small coat rack near the entry, but space is limited. Merchandise (like T-shirts or wristbands) is sometimes sold at the bar or merch table during big shows. One important note: by California law no smoking is allowed inside, so anyone wishing to smoke must step outside to the sidewalk. Overall, the Brave Bull’s interior is social and high-energy: it’s not the place for quiet dining, but it is perfect for meeting new people, having a few drinks, and enjoying the show in a relaxed, come-as-you-are environment.
Nearby Amenities
Located just south of downtown Modesto, The Brave Bull sits in a walkable neighborhood with plenty of pre-show and post-show options. If you’re looking for dinner before a night out, the area around 9th, H, I, and J Streets (within a 5–10 minute walk) offers many restaurants of various cuisines. For example, Galletto Ristorante (an upscale Italian spot) is at 1101 J Street (visitmodesto.com ), and El Sol (casual Mexican dining) is at 500 9th Street (visitmodesto.com ) – both highly-rated local favorites. For quick bites, there are also pizza joints, sandwich shops, and taquerias in downtown. If drinks or appetizers are what you want, there are craft breweries and wine bars just a few blocks north around 10th & K Streets. Bars and lounges abound downtown (like coffee shops by day and cocktail lounges by night), so you can easily hop around. For visitors staying overnight, several budget hotels and motels line 9th Street nearby (such as Economy Inn at 705 S. 9th). Closer to Highway 99 are chain hotels (Red Roof Inn, Holiday Inn Express, etc.) about 2–3 miles east. Public transportation access is good: the Greyhound/Amtrak station and the StanRTA Modesto Transit Center are both about a 10–15 minute walk (or a quick bus ride) north of the Brave Bull. If you need cash after hours, there are ATMs and some 24-hour markets in the area. In short, you won’t lack places for a pre-game meal or a late-night snack – plus downtown parking and transit make it easy to get back home after hours.
What Makes This Venue Special
The Brave Bull stands out for its unique history and community role. It is one of the oldest surviving gay bars not just in Modesto but in the Central Valley, celebrating nearly 50 years of continuous operation (www.ebar.com ). Many contemporary nightlife venues come and go, but Brave Bull’s longevity is rare: as one report notes, we hear far more of queer bars closing than reaching century milestones, so this bar’s endurance is remarkable (www.ebar.com ). It has been a launchpad for local queens and performers (for example, the bar was co-owned by “Marlena,” who later ruled San Francisco’s drag scene, and who called Brave Bull his inspiration (www.ebar.com )). Culturally, the Brave Bull is more than cocktails – it’s a safe haven and gathering place for Modesto’s LGBTQ+ folks. For decades it has been where people could “truly be yourself” (qlist.app ), and it remains a beloved spot for community gatherings, fundraisers, and even activist candidate nights back in the day (www.ebar.com ). Its signature features – the massive disco ball, neon bull-signs, rainbow flags, and a mix of locals of all ages dancing side by side – give it a homey charm you don’t find in corporate chains. Even nationally known figures have dropped by; historical accounts mention patrons like drag icon Divine and Harvey Milk in the 1970s (www.ebar.com ). Finally, artists and audiences love Brave Bull for its vibe: it’s smaller and more intimate than an arena, so performers (DJs, bands or drag acts) can really connect with the crowd. In short, Brave Bull is special because of its heritage (inclusive since 1974 (modesto.gaycities.com )), its community legacy, and its continued rollicking party atmosphere – a true Modesto institution.
Visitor Tips and Information
Here are some insider pointers to make your Brave Bull experience smooth: arrive early on popular nights (especially Sunday drag shows), since the small venue can fill up fast (evendo.com ). The bar opens at 8:00 PM on Thursday through Sunday (www.chamberofcommerce.com ), and stays rocking late (last call at 2:00 AM), so plan your evening accordingly. Because it’s a full bar, you must bring valid photo ID (18+ may get in some karaoke nights, but 21+ to buy drinks). Dress is casual clubwear – comfortable shoes for dancing are a good idea. No one enforces a strict dress code, but you probably don’t want to shuffle in in flip-flops or athletic wear. If you have a purse or backpack, keep it small – large bags may be discouraged by security, as the entry is a narrow door. Purely practical tip: phone photos are fine (people often snap pics of the drag queens), but professional cameras or video rigs are not allowed without permission. Brave Bull is very much an interactive club, so don’t be shy about getting on the dance floor or tipping performers – that’s part of the fun. Also note: California law bans smoking indoors, and Brave Bull abides by this, so smoking breaks mean stepping outside on the sidewalk. Finally, check Brave Bull’s Facebook or community postings before you go – social media is the best way they announce any theme nights or special guests (evendo.com ). By following these tips – early arrival, ID in hand, and a party-ready attitude – you’ll get the most out of this one-of-a-kind venue.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is The Brave Bull's address and how do I get there?
The Brave Bull is located at 701 S. 9th Street, Modesto, CA 95351 (at Sonora Avenue, just south of downtown). It’s easily reached via Highway 99 (take the Downtown/Redwood exit 433B). If you’re walking from downtown, it’s just a few blocks south of the city center. There’s ample paid parking nearby (city garages and street meters at ~$1.25/hr (www.modestogov.com )) or you can use a rideshare/taxi to be dropped right at the door.
When is The Brave Bull open?
The Brave Bull is open four nights a week: Thursdays through Sundays . Hours are generally 8:00 PM to 2:00 AM on each of those nights (www.chamberofcommerce.com ). The bar is closed Monday–Wednesday. Evening events usually kick off just after 8 PM and go late into the night (last call at 2 AM). There may be occasional special events or holidays with different hours, so it’s always wise to check the latest posts or call ahead.
Is there a cover charge or do I need tickets?
Brave Bull events are usually covered by a small door charge rather than advance tickets. There’s no box office or online ticketing – you simply pay the cover at the door when you arrive. On big nights (like popular drag shows or DJs) the cover is typically around $5–$10. Some less-busy nights may have little to no cover. Since seating is first-come, arriving early helps you get a good spot.
What should I wear and bring to The Brave Bull?
Casual nightclub attire is fine at the Brave Bull – think jeans or dress pants and tops you’d wear to a bar or dance club. There is no formal dress code, but clothing is expected (no bathing suits or athletic shorts). Wear comfortable shoes if you plan to dance. Bring a valid ID; the Brave Bull enforces 21+ entry for access to alcohol. A small purse or backpack is okay, but large bags might be discouraged at the door for security reasons. Also bring cash or a card – the bar accepts credit/debit, and you’ll need payment for drinks and cover. Finally, bring a friendly attitude – this venue is known for being welcoming to all backgrounds (qlist.app )!
Is The Brave Bull wheelchair accessible?
The Brave Bull entrance is at street level with no major stairs, so it is generally accessible to wheelchairs. Inside, the layout is open room/dance floor format (no steps inside), which allows wheelchair movement. Keep in mind the club can fill quickly and gets crowded, so maneuvering through the crowd might be tight. Restrooms are on one level, but it’s best to check directly with the club if you have specific accessibility needs. Because there’s often loud music and flashing lights, also consider that it’s a sensory-rich environment.
What types of events or shows take place at The Brave Bull?
The Brave Bull hosts a variety of nightly events, mainly focused on drag performances and dance parties. The most famous are the weekly drag shows (often on Sunday nights) featuring local and guest drag queens. Other regular events include DJ dance nights (usually Friday/Saturday), karaoke and open-mic gatherings (often Thursday or Sunday evenings), and occasional live band or acoustic sets. The venue also holds themed parties (costume contests, Pride celebrations, holiday events) from time to time. In short, you’ll see drag, DJs spinning dance music, karaoke singing, and the occasional live performer – all in a nightclub format (qlist.app ) (www.ebar.com ).
Is The Brave Bull safe and friendly for LGBTQ+ visitors?
Absolutely. The Brave Bull is a well-established LGBTQ+ venue and prides itself on being an inclusive, welcoming space for queer patrons and allies alike (qlist.app ) (modesto.gaycities.com ). The staff and regulars are known for being friendly and respectful. Security is present at the door, but they focus on keeping everyone safe and doesn’t tolerate harassment. You can freely be yourself here – it’s the point of the place. In fact, part of Brave Bull’s legacy is that it has been a hotline for safe queer nightlife since the 1970s (www.ebar.com ).
What should I know about parking at The Brave Bull?
Parking around The Brave Bull is mostly metered or in city lots. The nearest public garage is on 9th Street between K & L (two blocks north), which charges about $1.25 per hour (www.modestogov.com ). Another municipal garage is on 11th Street between I & J. Downtown street meters are also $1.25/hr (but are usually free after 6 PM). There are some pay lots a few blocks away as well. Note that on busy weekend nights, parking can fill up; many people recommend carpooling or using rideshare (Uber/Lyft) instead (evendo.com ). Rideshare drop-off is easy at 9th & Sonora. Just be prepared for a short walk from any paid lot – downtown is quite compact.
Is there usually seating, or is it standing/dancing only?
Seating at Brave Bull is very limited. The main floor is essentially a dance hall, and most nights people are on their feet. There are a few high-top tables and bar stools along the walls and near the stage, but they fill up quickly with early arrivals. If you want a seat, arrive right when doors open and grab a table at the edge. Otherwise, plan to stand or dance; the vibe is casual and communal, so standing in front of the stage or bar is common. The venue does not have reserved or VIP seating – it’s first-come basis.
What are the drink and food options inside The Brave Bull?
The Brave Bull is primarily a bar, so it serves alcoholic beverages rather than full meals. You can order beer (bottles and drafts), wine/sagetaria, and a range of cocktails (classic and some unique house drinks). Bartenders often mix creative cocktails, and many visitors praise the specialty drinks as a highlight (evendo.com ). There is no full kitchen, but the bartenders sometimes serve light pub snacks (like peanuts or pretzels) for free. Some guests order food deliveries in (pizza or sandwiches) on slow nights. If you want a full dinner, it’s best to eat at a restaurant beforehand (there are plenty nearby) and reserve the Brave Bull for after-dinner drinks and entertainment.
Do I need to follow a dress code at The Brave Bull?
No formal dress code is enforced. The Brave Bull is quite casual, so people dress in club attire or whatever makes them comfortable dancing. Most guests opt for smart-casual clothes (jeans or slacks with a nice top, etc.). Some dress up more on special nights (party outfits for drag shows), but it’s never required. The main rule is no offensive costumes (e.g. no nudity or overly obstructive props). You just want to wear something you feel good in and can stand/dance in for hours. Shoes should be comfortable for the dance floor (some women wear heels for flair, but dancing all night in stilettos might be tough!).
Is The Brave Bull 21+ only?
The Brave Bull primarily operates as a 21+ nightclub. Entry requires a valid photo ID. Younger patrons under 21 are not allowed because it is a bar that serves liquor. (Some family-friendly LGBTQ events in Modesto allow teens, but Brave Bull’s events are aimed at adults.) We recommend it for any patrons aged 21 and over.
Are there any famous or historic moments at The Brave Bull?
Over the years, Brave Bull has hosted many memorable events. For example, in the 1970s and 80s it was known for big Halloween parties (even doubling as drag queen Marlena’s birthday party in 1977) (www.ebar.com ). Golf-chic. Its original sound system in the late 1970s was reputed to be “super disco” quality (www.ebar.com ). In more recent times, Brave Bull’s survival itself became a story: when LGBTQ venues around California started closing, Brave Bull celebrated its 49th birthday in 2023 as “still kickin’” (www.ebar.com ). Sometimes local activists held election-night or benefit events there. So the venue is full of local lore – it’s a place where San Francisco’s Harvey Milk once stopped through (www.ebar.com ), and where generations of Modesto residents have danced. Today it continues building history with every packed drag show and community gathering it throws.
Is smoking allowed inside The Brave Bull?
No. California law prohibits indoor smoking in bars and clubs. Brave Bull follows these regulations. If you or someone in your group wants to smoke (cigarettes, e-cigs, etc.), you’ll need to step outside to the sidewalk – there is no smoking area inside. Healthy advice: no cigarette smoke inside means the air is clear on the dance floor!
Are cameras allowed and can I take pictures during shows?
Smartphone photos are generally fine and quite common (many people take pictures of drag acts or their friends dancing). Video taping is usually discouraged, especially during performances, out of respect for the entertainers’ rights. Professional cameras with detachable lenses would need special permission from management. In practice, most performers don’t mind phone snaps, but be mindful of others around you (keep your phone from blocking the stage view for others). Also, no flash during a show – you’ll ruin the lighting effects. In short: casual smartphone photography is okay, but anything beyond that should be approved by staff.
How can I find the latest event schedule for The Brave Bull?
The best way to learn what’s happening is to check Brave Bull’s official social media pages (they often update Facebook with upcoming karaoke nights, drag shows, etc.). Local LGBTQ community event calendars sometimes list Brave Bull events as well. Because the club doesn’t use a major ticketing site, social media and word-of-mouth are your primary guides. Another good strategy is to follow local drag performers or DJs on social media, since they frequently announce which nights they’ll be at Brave Bull. Finally, feel free to call the bar at (209) 529-6712 on day-of-event for a quick confirmation, especially for draw events.
What is the capacity of The Brave Bull?
The Brave Bull is a medium-small nightclub. There is no official posted capacity we could find, but crowd reports suggest it holds a few hundred people. For instance, Sunday drag nights routinely see 200–400 guests at a time (www.ebar.com ), often filling the club. In practical terms, once the floor is crowded and you can barely move, it’s at or near capacity. It’s much smaller than a concert hall – think more like a busy bar that gets very full — so plan to arrive early if you want to ensure you get in on popular nights.
Are children or pets allowed at The Brave Bull?
No. The Brave Bull is an adult nightclub, so minors (under 21) are not allowed inside. Likewise, pets of any kind are not permitted. You’ll want to leave kids and pets at home or in the care of others. The focus here is adult nightlife, so plan accordingly.
