What is Mountain Bear Madness?
Mountain Bear Madness is a yearly event that the Virginia Mountain Bears throw to entice bears and their admirers to come party and socialize with fellow like minded people over the course of a long weekend.
What is a bear run?
A bear run is a social event hosted usually by a bear club that is meant to bring the bear community together from abroad. Usually starting on Thursday and running through Sunday, the event is a weekend long party meant to bring the community together as well as raise money for charities.
When is the event?
The event is held in Roanoke, VA and starts on Thursday July 29th and runs through Sunday August 1st.
Who comes to these?
People from all walks of life come to bear runs. The bear community is a very diverse and accepting group in the gay community. Both singles and couples (even a few triples) come to the event for different reasons. Some come to socialize with like minded folks, others for more premiscuous reasons. *wink*
How much is a package?
The package prices vary depending on when you purchase it. Virginia Mountain Bears club members get a reduced rate.
What is included in the package cost?
Your package includes access to MBM from Thursday through Sunday. Included over the course of the event are three catered meals, free tickets for drinks from the bar, transportation to certain excursions, access to exclusive areas of the hotel reserved for MBM attendees, a goodie bag with MBM memorabillia and offers and promotional items from our sponsors, and of course access to the nightly parties. Trust me when I say, you will get your money's worth.
How old do I have to be to attend?
Mountain Bear Madness is for men 21 years of age or older. The age requirement is due to alcohol being served at the event.
Why do I have to buy a package if I live locally?
Believe it or not, we have been asked this repeatedly. The Virginia Mountain Bears spends $1000's of dollars to put on an event of this size. This includes not only food and alcohol, but fees, taxes, licenses, and room rentals. We only feel it is fair that EVERYONE that enjoys the event, has helped fund the fun. We do not allow locals to come to the event without purchasing a run package, even to just "hang out by the pool". We pride ourselves on running a tight ship to spot people trying to sneak in, and are even more proud that our attendees help us keep it honest for everyone. You can try, but don't get mad when you're escorted out in front of everyone. :) Again.. you get your money's worth, don't be "that guy", register early and save the most money and come enjoy the weekend with us.
Do I have to have a hotel room if I live locally?
Nope. You only have to have a run package to attend.
How come you don't offer a day pass or an A 'la Cart option for your events?
We have discussed and voted against day passes for three years in a row. We feel that our event is value priced for the amenities that you receive. We look at the extra time and work involved to manage processing people coming in after registration is closed. All of the MBM Staff purchases a run package at the same rate as it's attendees. We strive to offer a great time for all, and that includes us as well.
Do I have to book a hotel room to come to the event?
Nope. Where you stay is totally up to you. We do however discourage drinking and driving so if you are not staying at one of the MBM Properties we ask that you be conservative on the amount of alcohol you consume. Know your limits and obey all travel laws. Don't Drink and Drive!!
What's to stop me from booking a room at the overflow and crashing your event?
Nothing and everything. We only oversee the bookings at the "host hotel" to keep the crashers at bay. If we find you there, we will escort you out. We only feel it is fair that EVERYONE that enjoys the event, has helped fund the fun. We do have hired security checking for proper identification.
I've never been to a bear run before, what should I expect?
The best time of your life! No really, you should expect the following: A great group of men in all shapes, sizes, colors, and ages, with varying degrees of furiness having a great time. Bears typically are very tactile and bear runs tend to bring that out more. Expect to be approached in varying degrees. 99% of the people attending events are there looking for a great time and usually leave the drama at home, but there is always that 1%. Bear runs typically have a LOT going on to keep you both relaxed and engaged. Have a look at the galleries from MBM 2007 and 2008 online by clicking here to see more woofiness.
Am I guaranteed sex?
There is no guarantee in life but death and taxes. Our job is to bring everyone together for a relaxing time, the rest is up to you.
I'm very shy and unsure of being able to meet people, got any tips?
We sure do. Be yourself. Smile. Don't stand and pose.
I don't have a Paypal account, do I need one?
No you don't need a Paypal account to pay online. Guests wanting to register online can pay for their package using most major credit cards through Paypal without signing up for an account if you don't have on. Click here for a walkthrough video on the whole registration process.
I'm having paypal problems, can you help me?
Most certainly. If you've watched the registration video and are still having a problem paying for your registration please do not hesitate to contact us from the Contact Us page. Please note that all registrations not paid for within 48 hours of registration will be deleted.
I'd rather pay by check, can I do that?
We do accept checks. Please download and print out the pdf registration form (click here) and mail it along with your payment to the address on the form. Please note that you will not be able to register at the host hotel until we have received your payment and the check has cleared. Registration rate changes apply. Registrations received after a rate change must be postmarked before that change or the registration will be voided and the check returned.
How much money should I bring?
At Mountain Bear Madness we take pride in having you taken care of from the time you get here till you leave. From great food to free soft drinks and water along with drink tickets for premium spirts, as well as transportation to our major outing events. That being said, Friday Lunch is on your own and there are only so many free drink tickets you will receive. We also have vendors on site selling bear and leather related merchandise plus there is the silent auctions for great items that goes to charity. I would say you could enjoy the event for under $50 if you are conservative on your drinks and eating out. But the vendors have some really great items and the silent auction items are always highly sought after so I would recommend at least $150. There is an ATM in the lobby of the hotel for your convenience.
What is the theme this year and how can I prepare for it?
The theme this year is GREEK! TOGA! TOGA!! Ok that's out of my system. Click here for a great video on how to get your toga ready for the party.
As for preparing, we suggest you treat this event like any other event, make preperations in advance to get here as soon and as safely as possible. Schedule vacation at your workplace. Have a sitter come to water and feed your animals (or kids.. same thing), tell the wife in advance that you're going on a company trip. Just don't miss this event!! ;)
I am a vendor and would like to vend my wares at MBM!
Please use the contact page to get in touch with us. MBM offers affordable vending options. Space is limited so please contact us ASAP. |
