Vida Boheme and Noxeema Jackson, two glamorous and seasoned drag queens, share a triumphant moment in New York City after tying for the title of “Drag Queen of the Year.” Their victory comes with a grand prize—a trip to Hollywood to compete in the prestigious “Miss Drag Queen of America Pageant.” The duo, brimming with excitement and ambition, prepare for the journey westward. However, their plans take an unexpected turn when Vida, moved by compassion, insists on taking under their wing Chi-Chi Rodriguez, a young and inexperienced “drag princess” with much to learn. Chi-Chi is eager but naive, and Vida sees in her the potential for transformation and growth.
To fund their journey, the trio sells their plane tickets to an eccentric friend, John Jacob Jingleheimer Schmidt, and purchase a striking yellow 1967 Cadillac DeVille convertible. Before setting off, Vida takes a cherished keepsake—a framed autographed photo of Julie Newmar, inscribed with the words, “To Wong Foo, Thanks for Everything! Julie Newmar”—as a symbol of inspiration and elegance to guide them on their way.
Their road trip begins with high spirits, but the realities of the open road soon catch up to them. One night, their carefree journey turns dangerous when Sheriff Dollard, a bigoted and predatory lawman, pulls them over. His hostility escalates into violence as he attempts to assault Vida. In self-defense, she strikes him, leaving him unconscious. Believing they’ve killed him, the trio flees in a panic, their joy replaced by fear.
The following day, their car breaks down near the small, isolated town of Snydersville. Stranded, they are rescued by Bobby Ray, a kind-hearted local who offers them a ride to the town’s bed and breakfast, owned by Carol Ann and her controlling, abusive husband, Virgil. The queens, initially viewed with suspicion by the townsfolk, decide to make the best of their situation while waiting for the car part needed to fix their Cadillac.
Snydersville is a town stuck in time, weighed down by apathy and routine. Chi-Chi quickly draws unwanted attention from a group of local rednecks, but Bobby Ray steps in, protecting her and showing her unexpected kindness. Meanwhile, Vida and Noxeema set their sights on revitalizing the town’s spirit. They immerse themselves in the lives of the townspeople, offering makeovers, organizing a day of pampering for the women, and helping to plan the upcoming Strawberry Social, a local tradition long overdue for a reinvention.
During their time in the town, Vida grows increasingly concerned about Carol Ann’s bruises and timid demeanor. Suspecting the truth, Vida confronts her and discovers that Virgil has been abusing her for years. One night, Vida intervenes, physically confronting Virgil and forcing him to leave. Carol Ann, inspired by Vida’s strength and kindness, finds her own courage and reveals that she has known all along that Vida is not a biological woman. Her acceptance deepens the bond between them.
Meanwhile, Sheriff Dollard, having recovered from his injuries, embarks on a vengeful hunt for the queens. As he closes in, Virgil, bitter and seeking revenge, provides Dollard with information about their whereabouts. Dollard storms into Snydersville, demanding that the townspeople turn over the queens. By this point, however, the trio has won the hearts of the community. In a powerful show of solidarity, the townspeople rally around them. Each person steps forward, claiming to be a drag queen, in a dramatic act of defiance reminiscent of “Spartacus.” Dollard, humiliated and outnumbered, retreats in defeat.
With the town transformed and the Strawberry Social a resounding success, Vida, Noxeema, and Chi-Chi prepare to continue their journey to Los Angeles. Before leaving, Vida gives Carol Ann the cherished Julie Newmar photo as a token of their friendship and a reminder of the strength and beauty she possesses.
Upon reaching Los Angeles, the trio enters the pageant. Chi-Chi, who has grown into her own confidence and charisma under Vida and Noxeema’s guidance, takes center stage. Her transformation is complete as she is crowned “Drag Queen of the Year,” with none other than Julie Newmar herself presenting the award. The journey, filled with trials, triumphs, and newfound connections, has solidified their bond and left an indelible mark on everyone they encountered along the way.