Category Archives: Alternative
Inclusive Wellness and Authentic Thai Massage for All at Thai Lotus Bodywork
Experience the unparalleled healing power of authentic Thai massage at Thai Lotus Bodywork, where traditional techniques meet expert care in a serene and welcoming environment.
We take pride in creating a space that is inclusive, affirming, and LGBTQ+ friendly, ensuring that every client feels comfortable, respected, and valued. Thai massage is a deeply therapeutic practice that has been passed down for centuries, combining elements of acupressure, assisted stretching, and rhythmic compression to restore balance, relieve muscle tension, and enhance overall flexibility. Whether you are seeking relief from chronic pain, recovering from physical strain, or simply looking to unwind from the stresses of daily life, our highly trained therapists tailor each session to your unique needs, providing a healing experience that is both restorative and rejuvenating.
At Thai Lotus Bodywork, we believe that true wellness comes from harmony between the body and mind. Our peaceful spa setting has been carefully designed to provide a sanctuary where you can fully relax and be yourself. From the moment you step inside, you will be welcomed with warmth and professionalism, allowing you to fully immerse yourself in a state of deep relaxation. Our team consists of male and female therapists who have years of experience in traditional Thai healing methods, working with precision and care to release tension, improve circulation, and promote deep, lasting relief. We honor every client’s individual needs and ensure that all treatments are conducted with the utmost respect for personal comfort and boundaries.
We take pride in offering a premium wellness experience, with a commitment to exceptional service, cleanliness, and professionalism. As part of our dedication to inclusivity and community, we are thrilled to offer an exclusive promotion for Best Gay Chicago readers — receive $15 off your first 90-minute session. We believe that self-care is for everyone, and we are honored to provide a space where LGBTQ+ clients can relax and recharge with confidence.
Book your session today by calling or texting 773-677-9889 or visiting our website to learn more about our services. Whether you are new to Thai massage or a returning client, we invite you to discover why Thai Lotus Bodywork is the ultimate destination for authentic Thai healing, relaxation, and inclusive wellness.
2 locations; Downtown and Uptown!
LGBTQ Night @ Six Flags September 7th OUT IN THE PARK
It’s almost here!
Six Flags Great America
Returns in 2024 for Year 13!
SEPT. 7th 8pm – 12am
(There is another private event before ours. Sometimes the gates open a little bit early. Get there a little early, if you want to maximize your time in the park! – or tailgate in the parking lot!)
with a computer or smart phone.
GaySixFlagsChicago.com
$51 after Sept 2
$56 at the door – if available.
FREE PARKING!
ALL AGES EVENT!
Must be 21 years or older to purchase adult beverages!
Ticket sales are capped at 5000 – so it’s a private night in the park with much shorter lines!
SEASON PASSES ARE NOT ACCEPTED FOR PRIVATE EVENTS AT SIX FLAGS.
LGBTQ+ PRIVATE Night at Six Flags September 9th
Six Flags Great America
Returns in 2023 for Year 12!
(There is another private event before ours. Sometimes the gates open a little bit early. Get there a little early, if you want to maximize your time in the park!)
with a computer or smart phone.
$55 at the door – if available.
FREE PARKING!
Circuit Mom Presents Drag Queen Drive In Fun Oct 16th
And now for something a little different –
Drive in Drag – just in time for Halloween!
2 shows on Friday October 16th, 2020
6pm and 8:30pm
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Grabby Awards Show Streaming LIVE This Year May 30th
The annual GRABBYS Award Show, highlighting top talent and performances in the gay erotic film industry, will take place on Saturday, May 30 at 7:30 p.m. CDT.
This annual event is usually held in Chicago each Spring, to sold-out audiences. Due to current state and local restrictions related to COVID-19, the event will be live-streamed. The event is expected to reach thousands of more fans this year around the world!
“Despite the unfortunate situation with the COVID-19 pandemic, the show must go on — safely,” said show producer Stacy Bridges. “We’re excited the GRABBYS is the first gay erotic award show to be live-streamed, providing more fans the opportunity to join the celebration for FREE! And unlike our live-stage productions, the show this year will feature adult- material, such as X-rated film clips for ‘Best Movie’ nominees!”
Chi Chi LaRue and Honey West
will return for the 21st year as virtual hostesses; Chi Chi LaRue from Minneapolis and Honey West in Chicago.
The show is expected to be approximately 90 minutes.
GayVN Stars is the presenting sponsor. “We are thrilled to be working with our friends at the GRABBYS to stream their highly anticipated ceremony live on our GayVN Stars platform,” said AVN Media Network CEO Tony Rios. “We’re looking forward to seeing all the fans of adult entertainment worldwide come together online for this special interactive broadcast event.”
The nominees this year include;
850Bdt, Aumphreak4, BillySantoroXXX, CadeMaddoxxx,
CodyGunzXXX, CutlerX, DillonAndersonX, DirkCaber, DreGilcrest, Hattrickz91, HossKado, HungerFF, King111_, LeoGiamani3, LevyFoxxXXX, Maxadonisxxx, MichaelLucasNYC, MinoFlexXX, PoppersGod, RCandDigger, RafaelMovies, RayDexterXXX, RealMenFullBush, RhyheimShabazz, RoccoSteeleNYC, RopeTrainKeep, SeanHardingXXX, SeanZevran, TheGrayMerchant, TripleXTransMan, TylerHillXXX, TylerSaintReal, Zackybro101, adamrussoxxx, atxpapi, cagedjock, deepfillernyc,
devinfrancoxxx, eagerbttmxxx, edjidasilvaxx, grgisthewerd, griffinbarrowsx, iammisterbolden, itskravemelanin, jackmackenroth, loganstevensxxx, maxkonnorxxx, nickcapra, phatrabbitkill2, and rastadikk.
Additional sponsors include GRAB Magazine, Swiss Navy Lube, Justfor.fans and Steamworks Baths Chicago. (New issues of GRAB MAGAZINE are available online for free, every other week!)
For more information and updates, visit www.GrabbyAwards.com.
Chicago Gay PrideFest June 20-21
Chicago Pride Fest is BACK ON for June 20-21!
It was previously announced that Pride Fest, the Pride Parade and Market Days were being canceled or rescheduled, due to the Covid 19 restrictions and limitations.
This morning it was announced that plans are underway to put together a 2 night virtual celebration of Pride Fest streaming for Free to Chicago and the world!
Chicago Pride Fest Goes Virtual
Chicago Pride Fest will mark its 20th year with a virtual festival format. On June 20-21, the Northalsted Business Alliance brings Boystown to the world with a streaming Chicago Pride Fest celebrating the love, life and diversity of Chicago’s LGBTQ+ community. Running from 7 pm to 9 pm both nights, the streaming Twitch event will feature a full line-up with entertainment, activism, greetings and more.
Virtual gate donations will benefit Boystown community programming, the Center on Halsted and Howard Brown Health.
Northalsted President Ramesh Ariyanayakam acknowledges how different things will look this year. “Right now our focus is all about planning a Pride celebration for the digital ages. We know this virtual festival will bring much needed connection and hope to our community and beyond and are thrilled to produce this event.”
More details at pridefestchicago . A full programming line-up will be available in June .
Wing it with Wendy Sitti Chicago’s Hilarious Socialite
SHE IS thee Chicago Socialite and a woman of the world!
Laughter is best medicine and Wendy Sitti knows how to serve it up!
It’s true: laughter is strong medicine. It draws people together in ways that trigger healthy physical and emotional changes in the body. Laughter strengthens your immune system, boosts mood, diminishes pain, and protects you from the damaging effects of stress.
Wonderful, witty, wild and wacky, EVERYONE loves Wendy! With her infectious laugh and her wacky ways she will have you forget your troubles in a few short minutes.
Wing it with Wendy! Wendy Sitti now has a channel and a show! “I will have episodes of DIY Do it Yourself Shows, of various domestication from cooking, gardening, home improvement, travel to unique places and landmarks, in Drag Queen style. We will also have guest appearances by celebrities and film episodes from exotic places around the world to also my home!”
Truly entertaining! – BestGayChicago.com
We hope this channel will entertain you and teach you a new trick or two! At press time, 3 episodes are out now!
“I was born in Warsaw, Poland. The apple of my parents eye! I was raised on a farm and later went to work in my dads sausage factory. That is where I met Stanley in high school and where we went to prom. He was nice but I knew I needed something bigger, it must of been from being around all of that sausage. I wanted to go to America.” Wendy tells us.
“After saving enough money, I flew to Chicago and realized I had no place to stay. I called my cousin Rich and moved in with him.”
“I know America is the land of opportunity and I was excited to make it big. I dyed my hair black to fit in and have a different look. But then some woman, Mrs. Richfield told me I was moving in on her scene. I went back to my natural color and started doing all kinds of odd jobs. Cleaning rooms at a hotel on Halsted called Steamworks, to cleaning the rooms at the Elysium Hotel in Mykonos. I kind of became a big thing and I’m not talking about my boobs!”
“I enjoy fashion, drinking, socializing and hanging out with nice people. If you want your event to Pop, like my cherry then invite me!”
also Wendy on Instagram
and her website
BEST Mariachi Band Comes to Chicagoland Feb 8th
Award-winning Mariachi ensemble to perform at Moraine Valley
Mariachi Herencia De México will perform its award-winning traditional Mexican music on Saturday, Feb. 8, at 7:30 p.m. in the Dorothy Menker Theater at Moraine Valley Community College, 9000 W. College Parkway, Palos Hills.
Tickets are $30, $25 for seniors, and free for children and students with ID. Those who qualify for free admission must acquire a ticket to reserve a seat.
This ensemble of students from Chicago’s immigrant barrios started in 2014 as a music education program for Chicago Public school students. The group has earned a Latin Grammy nomination in the Best Ranchero/Mariachi Album category, and its latest album, “Herencia de la Tierra Mia,” debuted at No. 2 on Billboard’s Latin Album sales chart.
Mariachi Herencia de México has performed alongside major artists, Lila Downs, Aida Cuevas, Los Lobos, Pedro Fernández, as well as some of the most respected mariachi groups from both sides of the border, including Mariachi Vargas de Tecalitlan, Los Camperos, Sol de Mexico, Cobre, and the all-female group Reyna de Los Angeles.
For more information or to purchase tickets, call the Fine and Performing Arts Center Box Office at (708) 974-5500 or visit morainevalley.edu/fpac.
Cat Film Festival in Chicago September 10
For those who love cats, a special film program, The Cat Film Festival, will be at the Century Centre 7 and Highland Park theaters on Tuesday Sept. 10. Showtime and programs are listed below.
The festival celebrates our love for cats, illustrated through film. Unlike Internet video festivals, these programs are works of art, thoughtfully curated by pet wellness expert and champion, Tracie Hotchner.
The Cat Film Festival is an exploration through film of the fascinating felines who share our lives, creating a shared audience experience that inspires, educates and entertains. For far too long, cats have been the “invisible” part of the human-animal bond and it’s time to shine the spotlight on these magnificent creatures and the humans devoted to them. The Cat Film Festival enhances our appreciation and understanding of how cats share our world, while benefiting cat welfare nationwide.
Tuesday, September 10, 7:00 – 9:00 p.m.
A portion of every ticket benefits local animal welfare organizations Treehouse Humane and Save a Pet.To purchase tickets or for more information: www.
PROGRAM DESCRIPTIONS:
The Cat Film Festival 2019 (2 Hours)
[The films are free of physical or verbal abuse toward people or animals. The only tears you might shed would be tears of joy for happy endings. The programs are designed for adult audiences but can be enjoyed by all members of the family, including mature children.]
The Pet Effect (2:00) Prescription: cat; Little Works of Art (13:00) Kim Best’s look at Harold “Cat Man” Sims and his self-styled American Museum of the House Cat in Sylva, NC, which houses over 10,000 cat-related objects and honors cats as “little works of art”; Art’s Automotive (6:00 )Erik Dumas’ animated tale of an orphaned kitten who bonds with an automotive repair robot in the future; Akamatsu the Cat (10:00) Ian Christopher Goodman’s documentary about life with a disabled kitty cat, Akamatsu, who was paralyzed but went on to live another 4 vibrant years with the use of a wheelchair; Pure Fluff (4:00) Sean Skelton’s documentary sketch of a professional cat groomer in New York City, who shows how to tackle this combative challenge; Winter Break (5:00) Rick Hamilton’s look at the thoughts of a school teacher who has only her cat for company during winter break; Guardians of Recoleta (21:00) Blake & Adrienne Kuhre (who run their own non-profit cat rescue in Los Angeles) examine the community cats living in the iconic Buenos Aires Recoleta cemetery, and what became of some kitties removed by well-meaning American rescuers; Scaredy, the Cat (8:00) Markie Hancock’s heartwarming documentary about a very shy cat who was adopted at the tennis courts in NYC’s Riverside park but avoids everyone except for a few choice people whom she eagerly greets; Marnie: The Cat Guru (2:00) Anca Vlasan’s philosophical tabby cat expounds on the meaning of life and happiness; Cat Nation: A Film About Japan’s Crazy Cat Culture (26:00) Tim Delmastro’s documentary about Japan’s extraordinary love of kitty cats; Instagram Cat Mom (5:00) Jess Spawn’s mockumentary takes us behind the scenes on the lengths people might go to for the purrfect photo to post online; Samantha and the Rock Cats (11:00) Jacob Feiring’s documentary follows a woman who travels the country with her cat show; Mittens from Kittens (4:00) Kim Best’s documentary shows how one woman was inspired by the nuisance of cat hair into spinning and knitting it into useful item; Beth Is Not a Cat (3:00) Beth is not a cat, but looks like one, which perplexes her orange tabby.
*Program subject to change without notice
About the Festival Founder
In 2015 the first NY Dog Film Festival™ premiered in New York City to a sold out theater. In 2017 the first annual NY Cat Film Festival™ followed suit, both events growing out of Tracie Hotchner’s desire as a pet wellness advocate to expand her Radio Pet Lady™ Network’s outreach to educate the public about adoption, health issues and philosophical aspects of pets in our lives. Today, both festivals travel the country, delighting pet lovers everywhere.
Hotchner is a nationally acclaimed pet wellness advocate, who wrote THE CAT BIBLE: Everything Your Cat Expects You to Know as well as THE DOG BIBLE: Everything Your Dog Wants You to Know. She is recognized as a thought leader in improving the lives of companion animals and is the premiere voice for pets and their people on pet talk radio.
She produced and hosted her own live, call-in show CAT CHAT® for over 7 years on the Martha Stewart channel of Sirius/XM until the channel was canceled. Tracie then created her own Radio Pet Lady™ Network, where she still produces and co-hosts CAT CHAT® along with 10 other pet talk radio podcasts with top veterinarians and pet experts.
Tracie continues to produce and host her own Gracie® Award winning NPR show DOG TALK® (and Kitties, Too!) from Peconic Public Broadcasting in the Hamptons after more than 12 consecutive years and 575 shows.
Free Queer Prom this week – Center on Halsted
MIDNIGHT IN PARIS: QUEER PROM FOR LGBTQ YOUTH
Friday, May 10, 2019
5:00 PM – 8:00 PM
Center on Halsted
FREE TO ATTEND
Cirque du Soleil VOLTA Extended
Cirque du Soleil is excited to add two weeks of performances of VOLTA’s Chicago engagement this spring. The show will be presented under its signature Big Top at the Soldier Field South Lot, 1410 Museum Campus Drive, Chicago, May 18 – July 6, 2019. Tickets, starting at $49, are available for purchase by visitingcirquedusoleil.com/volta or calling 1-877-9CIRQUE (1-877-924-7783).
The show
Energetic, urban and contemporary, VOLTA is a captivating voyage of discovery that showcases never-before-seen under the Big Top acrobatics in a visually striking world. Driven by a stirring melodic score and inspired in part by the adventurous spirit that fuels the culture of street sports, VOLTA is a story of transformation. It is about being true to oneself, fulfilling one’s true potential, and recognizing one’s own power to make it possible. Ultimate freedom comes with self-acceptance, and with the liberation of the judgment of others.
BMX & Street Sports
The creators of VOLTA drew inspiration from the spirit of adventure that pervades the world of BMX, street sports and acrobatics. Whether they are on a bike, hopping from rooftop to rooftop, or double dutch rope skipping, urban sports enthusiasts constantly challenge themselves and defy convention.
Sure to be a Chicago crowd pleaser, VOLTA features a full-blown BMX park mounted on stage in front of the audience’s very eyes for the breathtaking BMX finale as riders invade the stage to deliver a jaw-dropping, fast and furious performance of nonstop acrobatics on wheels. The riders go up the jump boxes and perform air tricks before landing and leaping off the ramps again, crisscrossing and spinning their bikes in midair in a spirit of brotherhood.
The name VOLTA refers to a sudden about-face, a change in emotion or idea often used in poetry. It also speaks to the jolt of energy delivered through the show.
The Costumes
The stunning costumes of VOLTA have been designed by Zaldy Goco, famous for his work with Lady Gaga, Michael Jackson, Britney Spears, Gwen Stefany and for TV show RuPaul’s Drag Race.
Ticket Information
VOLTA will be presented under the Big Top at the Soldier Field South Lot, 1410 Museum Campus Drive, Chicago, starting May 18. Tickets can be purchased online at www.cirquedusoleil.com/volta. Discover our VIP package – a cocktail reception with open bar and hors d’ oeuvres inspired by the show, access to the best seats for greater comfort, complimentary parking and more!
New Years Day Never Afters Party 7am
If you are like me, I hate the crowds, the lines and the high prices on New Years Eve!
We like to go out early, have some drinks with friends and be in bed by 11! I know, we’re old! But we have already done New Years Eve many many MANY times!
So this party sounds amazing! It starts at 7am New Years Day! So whether you stay up all night or want to take a break in between, the amazing folks at Neverland are presenting this Never Afters Party!
TUESDAY January 1st from 7:00am-1:00pm or later: Regarded by industry vets as one of the best afterhours dance parties in circulation right now, Happily Never Afters has taken the Chicago scene by storm.
This is a NO FRILLS event: No dancers, no hosts, no drama, no attitude, no one bothering you, and no fucks given. Party starts at 7:00am on New Year’s Day, so either stay up all night New Year’s Eve, or take a puppy nap. If you’re trying to look fresh for the party, don’t bother: it’ll be too dark and foggy for anyone to see clearly. Plus, Happily Never Afters isn’t about getting all dolled up. It’s about letting loose in a safe space and having the time of your life, all while ringing in the New Year.
MUSIC by DJ Serving Ovahness (Los Angeles) and DJ Alex Cabot (Neverland Resident)
Presale tickets NOW for just $20!
FYI – The best resource for New Years Eve parties in the gay community can be found at GRAB MAGAZINE.
Cirque du Soleil brings new production, VOLTA May 2019
Cirque du Soleil brings VOLTA, its newest Big Top production, to new Chicago location, Soldier Field South Lot, May 18 – June 23, 2019!
Tickets on sale exclusively to Cirque Club members November 20;
General on-sale begins November 26 (‘Cyber Monday’)
Get a sneak peek of VOLTA here!
Cirque du Soleil returns to Chicago with VOLTA, a captivating voyage of discovery! Inspired in part by the adventurous spirit that fuels the culture of street sports, VOLTA explores the themes of celebrating differences and unique qualities in a world where technology often isolates people from one another rather than freeing them. Written and directed by Bastien Alexandre, with Jean Guibert as the director of creation, VOLTA weaves acrobatics in a visually striking world driven by a stirring melodic score, composed by Anthony Gonzalez from the international electronic group M83. For the first time, VOLTA will perform under its signature Big Top at the Soldier Field South Lot, 1410 Museum Campus Drive, Chicago, May 18 – June 23, 2019.
Access to the best seats and prices are available for existing Cirque Club members beginning Tuesday, November 20. Visitcirquedusoleil.com/cirqueclub to sign up for a complimentary membership. Cirque Club members receive advance access to the best seats under the Big Top, at the best price.
Tickets
Tickets (starting at $49) will be available to the general public beginning Monday, November 26, 2018, aka ‘Cyber Monday,’ by visitingcirquedusoleil.com/volta or calling 1-877-9CIRQUE (1-877-924-7783). Discover Cirque’s Hennessy Black VIP Experience package which includes a cocktail reception with open bar and hors d’oeuvres inspired by the show, access to the best seats for greater comfort, complimentary parking and more!
The show
Energetic, urban and contemporary, VOLTA is a captivating voyage of discovery that showcases never-before-seen under the Big Top acrobatics in a visually striking world. Driven by a stirring melodic score and inspired in part by the adventurous spirit that fuels the culture of street sports, VOLTA is a story of transformation. It is about being true to oneself, fulfilling one’s true potential, and recognizing one’s own power to make it possible. Ultimate freedom comes with self-acceptance, and with the liberation of the judgment of others.
The name VOLTA refers to a sudden about-face, a change in emotion or idea often used in poetry. It also speaks to the jolt of energy delivered through the show.
FOLLOW VOLTA!
Social Media:
Twitter: @Cirque #VOLTA
Instagram: cirquedusoleil #VOLTA
Undocumented and QUEER April 24th
Join us as we showcase the struggles and activism of undocumented queer people in this age of uncertainty. Delve into the history of the fight for immigrant rights in Chicago’s LGBTQ community. Take a closer look at the gripping stories, legal avenues, and layered past of undocumented queer persons in this lively panel discussion with immigration and queer activist Egle Malinauskaite, organizer and scholar Tania Unzueta Carrasco ofMijente, Antonio Gutierrez of Community Activism Law Alliance – CALA and LGBTQ immigration attorney Michael Jarecki.
Now in its fifteenth year, the Museum’s popular and provocative series delves into the storied history of Chicago’s LGBTQ communities. This season, join us as we explore the connections between activism of the past and today and how calls to action propel cultural disruption.
Schedule:
5:30 p.m. Reception with refreshments and appetizers
6:30 p.m. Program begins
-Introduction by Nancy Villafranca, CHM Elizabeth F. Cheney
Director of Education
-Two audio recordings from the Immigrant Youth Justice League
(IYJL)
-Panel discussion, Q&A to follow
8:00 p.m. Program concludes
Boystown Halsted Halloween Parade 2017
Summer is over and it’s time to think about what to wear this fall?
The Annual Northalsted Halloween Parade will be here before you know it!
HAUNTED HALSTED SET TO SPOOK BOYSTOWN FOR HALLOWEEN
Haunted Halsted is the theme for this year’s Halloween. The Northalsted Business Alliance invites ghouls, goblins, zombies and all haunted beings to go above and beyond for this year’s parade theme. Thousands will line the route, while hundreds compete for who rules the street.
The legendary parade, now it its 21st year, happens Halloween night at 7:30 pm.
Kicking off from the corner of Halsted and Belmont and traveling north to Addison, the competitive costume contest will award winners in four categories: Drag, Group, Scariest and Theme. Registration is now open at https://www.northalsted.com/northalsted-halloween-parade-registration/
A host of Halloween queens will adorn the parade route, as a ‘Thriller” dance party breaks out. Fire eaters and more complete the spooky scene.
Northalsted Halloween Parade
Tuesday, October 31
5 pm- 7 pm Registration at Halsted/Belmont
7:30 pm Parade kicks-off and travels north to Addison
Free to participate
Northalsted Business Alliance Executive Director Chad Honeycutt explains what sets Halsted Halloween celebrations apart.
“Simply put, there’s no other city neighborhood that does Halloween better. This year will be no exception, we expect everyone to bring their ‘A’ game for the contest and parade.”
Day of the Dead Chicago 2017
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Day of the Dead: Xicágo
Join the National Museum of Mexican Art for the annual Día de los Muertos Xicágo celebration on Sunday, October 29th from 3:00 p.m. to 8:00 p.m.
Bring your friends and loved ones to celebrate Día de los Muertos as we transform the Museum and surrounding area into a beautiful work of art. To commemorate this special day, guests will enjoy face painting, art activities, ofrenda (altar) demonstrations, live musical performances, and Pan de Muerto (traditional Day of the Dead Bread). This year we are thrilled to be joined by Fernando Sic (Rimiyoho), who will create live animations projected on the Museum’s exterior.
Additionally, families and individuals are invited to participate by creating their own ofrenda (Day of the Dead altar) or sharing a photograph of a departed loved one as part of the large illuminated ofrenda. Read more about the event and how you can contribute.
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Enjoy a spectacular fall event complete with live musical and DJ entertainment, delicious culinary treats, and cocktails, all in support of the Museum’s programs.
More details to come! But early birds can purchase tickets now and take advantage of discounted pricing.
Out in the Park Chicago 2017
Out In The Park at Six Flags Great America
Returns in 2017 for Year 6!
A Private Night in the Park to Celebrate Diversity
Presented by MINI Cooper Chicago & BestGayChicago.com
That Will Help Benefit Howard Brown Health
Saturday, September 9th, 2017 from 7:30PM to 12AM
Out In The Park is an annual private diversity fundraising event featuring unlimited riding of ALL Six Flags Great America’s amazing THRILL rides (with much shorter than usual lines! The park is only 35% full!) with a portion of all ticket sales each year help benefit various non-profits. “One of the best elements of this event is that it is closed to the general public and this year our event piggy-backs a daytime corporate buyout so our attendees will be entering an EMPTY PARK!” explains Michael Snell, co-owner of BestGayChicago.com. “The LGBTQ community, their family, friends and supporters can enjoy the park with shorter lines and without homophobic or bigotry from anyone. It’s like a Fall Pride Celebration!”
This event started in 2012, as an LGBTQ night. In 2015 there was a huge shift in the public’s opinion on Marriage Equality and Equal Rights. (Joe Biden says Will & Grace was a huge influencer for the shift in public opinion!) Friends and allies “came out of the closet” as the showing of support more than doubled. It is for this reason, we chose to change the theme to a Celebration of Diversity. People of any color, size, body type, gender, gender expression(s), and sexual orientation are all welcome. Bullies and Bigotry will not be tolerated.
It’s important to us that everyone—no matter who you are, how you identify, or where you’re from—feel comfortable and confident. Our message is simple: You are welcome here.
Singer, model, author SIR JET will do a meet and greet in the parking lot at 7pm, as we await the gates to open for the evening. Then he will perform live at 1:30am, at Charlie’s, the host of the Official After Party! 3726 N Broadway St, Chicago, IL 60613. $5 cover.
In an interview with ChicagoPride.com: “We are very excited that this private night for charity continues to grow every year and we have gifted over $40,000 to various groups,” said Derrick Sorles, Snell’s husband of 18 years and business partner,
“We are honored that some of our peers including GRAB Magazine, ChicagoPride.com as well as Our Lives Madison and QUEST Magazine in Wisconsin also help us by donating advertising space for this event! It’s truly a community event where everyone comes together for the greater good!” says Derrick Sorles.
Advance $42 tickets can be purchased NOW at www.CelebrateDiversityChicago.com
Attendees get FREE parking for this special event! September 5th the price goes up to $47.
$52 at the gate, IF AVAILABLE.
This event is capped at only 5,000 tickets, to ensure lines stay short for the rides.
Season Passes cannot be honored for special events. All ages event.
Drinks are available for purchase to those 21+
House Music 5 Magazine Event
Saturday, August 26th, 2017
The leader in HOUSE MUSIC NEWS! 5 Magazine will celebrate their 12 Year Anniversary this month!
“It’s been a long road and we thank you all for continuing on with us. For this year we are so very excited to be having Baltimore and Phily representing!”
Karizma (R2/Kaytronik, Baltimore)
DEL (Do You Wanna Boogie, 5 Magazine, Philly)
CZBOOGIE (5 Magazine)
$12 Advance, $15 Before Midnight, $18 after
21 & Over / 10PM
http://5chicago.com/
https://soundcloud.com/
soundcloud.com/a-DEL-mix
https://soundcloud.com/
*Because of an early evening concert happening in Wrigley Field that night, we highly encourage people to take either the red line train (exit Addison) or an Uber. The nearby streets will be closed off until approximately 11pm.
Another option would be is to park several blocks away from Smartbar & then take an Uber from there. We will have more specific street information closer to the date.
We can’t wait to see you all!!! ♥
DJ BIOS:
KARIZMA
Kris Klayton is an award winning International DJ and electronic music producer/artist from Baltimore, Maryland, known for his wide genre of music production in Deep House, Deep Techno, Hip-Hop, Jazz and Broken bBeats, being sponsored by Pioneer because of
DEL
DEL is a senior editor for the leading house music source in America, 5 MAGAZINE, and his column, FOUNDATIONS, has connected music fans across generations. He is a resident partner in the Do You Wanna Boogie? events which are “must do” parties in the U.S. and Mexico! DEL has created edits and original productions including “NO FAKE” on Ospina Digital.
A true “selector” with knowledge and experience across nearly every dance genre… DEL always shares his positivity, energy, and soul! Dancers and music lovers know that when DEL is in the middle of it, SOMEBODY’S GONNA GET…
facebook.com/DELMIX
soundcloud.com/a-DEL-mix
mixcloud.com/DELmix
Twitter: discobush
Instagram: discobush
CZBOOGIE
Czarina Mirani (aka Czboogie) was originally a professional actress and dancer for most of her life with a serious love affair for House. In 2005 she launched 5 Magazine, North America’s only publication dedicated exclusively to underground House music. She has interviewed and worked with almost all of the House community’s biggest stars and continues to push for the next generation of talent.
Aside from being the publisher and editor-in-chief, she also does 5 Magazine radio shows and podcasts, promotes several House events in Chicago and has her own dance company (Fivestarboogie Productions) with dance performances and classes throughout the city. Her House dancing classes have been named by the Chicago Reader as the “best dance class in the city.”
Czboogie’s style of sexy vocal House music has made her an in demand DJ all over Chicago and in cities around the U.S. as well as in Asia. She has had DJ residencies at Smartbar (Chicago’s number one club for electronic music), Grandbar, Hydrate, 3 Degrees at Primary, Circuit, Evil Olive, Crocodile, Uptown Lounge, Cocktail, Drop Chicago, Urban’s House and with the legendary Boom Boom Room (the longest running House night in the world and renown host to world class DJs). One of the highlights was her Nu-Breed Residency with world-class House legends Cajmere and Chez Damier at Smartbar in 2012.
Check out www.5chicago.com for the digital version of 5 Magazine.
FREE TICKETS for SUPERHERO Resistance @ Aragon Aug 12
Market Days Saturday night will never be the same. After six consecutive years of sold out dance parties at House Of Blues, Circuit Mom / Matthew Harvat has moved the wildly successful Superhero themed party closer to Lakeview and into an epic venue that doubles our party’s size.
More lights, more lasers, more production, more sound and more people from around the globe to dance with.
After thirteen years, The Aragon Ballroom welcomes us back for what will become the biggest event of the year. You will not believe your eyes once you enter the space. They have tons of surprises in store for you and will welcome over 2,500 party goers to this new Market Days home.
PLUS this is the Chicago debut of DJ Grind and DJ Gauthreaux spinning together for this main event.
WHO WILL YOU COME AS????
WHO WANTS TO GO FOR FREE???
Leave a comment, any comment below with your email – your email is hidden from the public and we are not adding you to any lists. Just click READ MORE and you can leave a comment!
We will randomly draw 2 names, MONDAY Aug 7th 2 NOON. We will email the winners.
Each winning name will get one free ticket for the event!
This is going to be an amazing event, not to be missed! CircuitMom.com for ticket info
Tickets are available online now and with a new VIP option.
Visit www.circuitmom.com for all options.
People of any colour, size, body type, gender, gender expression(s), and sexual orientation are welcome. Bigotry will not be tolerated. Must be 21+ to attend.
Chicago’s Chuck Renslow Passed, 87
Pioneering Chicago Gay Activist and Leather Community Leader Chuck Renslow Passes Away At 87
It’s with a sad heart that we must report that Chuck Renslow, the pioneering gay activist who opened the first gay leather bar in the country, the Gold Coast in 1958, has passed away at the age of 87.
Mr. Renslow was the founder and photographer of Kris Studios, one of the earliest and most durable of the physique houses ( and one where leather always had a place ) He was the publisher of Triumph, Mars and Rawhide Male magazines. He was a founder of Second City Motorcycle Club, the first club in the midwest in 1965.
He was among the earliest members, often among the founders, of many gay liberation organizations and movements. He was the publisher of GayLife Newspaper and has sat on the Board of fourteen different GLBT organizations. He was also the founder of many gay bars and sex clubs including Man’s Country, which has survived for more than 30 years.
He is the founder, in of the International Mr. Leather, which meets yearly in Chicago and was inducted into Chicago’s Lesbian and Gay Hall of Fame in 1991.
At the Leather Archives & Museum’s September 2016 Board of Directors meeting Chuck was elected “Chairperson of the Board” of the world famous museum that he himself founded.
Specific details of his passing have not been released as of yet.
