The 48th annual International Mr. Leather (IML) & International Mr. Bootblack (IMBB) kicked off at the Congress Plaza Hotel, 520 S. Michigan Ave., on May 21 with opening ceremonies.
This year, 68 contestants from around the world are competing for the title of IML 2026, as well as 4 contestants competing for IMBB 2026. All of the contestants were introduced during the parade of flags representing their states and countries of origin. The contestants then randomly picked their numbers in front of the boisterous crowd.
The IML Physique and Stage Presence and IMBB Bar Wear and Stage Presence portions of the contest takes place at the Riviera Theatre, 4746 N. Racine Ave., on the evening of May 22 and concludes at the Riviera Theatre on the evening of Sunday, May 24.
