Category Archives: Outdoors
Chicago Pride Fest October 1-3
Pride Fest, which usually happens in June, will take place Oct 1-3rd this year!
The festival features live music by headline artists and local favorites, 3 stages, food and drink, 100+ arts/crafts vendors, DJ’s and dancing, drag shows, pet parade, sponsored presence, games, giveaways and more.
A $15 suggested donation for entry helps pays performers and festival workers, and funds community programs. Generous public donations paid for the Chicago Pride Crosswalks; 14 rainbow paved intersections installed in 2019 that make up the longest installation of it’s kind in the world.
It’s a love-filled celebration of diversity, equality and the Chicago LGBTQ+ community on Halsted Street, America’s first recognized gay village.
The festival is easily accessible via the CTA Red Line Addison station at historic Wrigley Field as well as multiple bus lines and rideshare car/cab services with convenient access to downtown hotels and other lodging.
MORE INFO HERE
OUT AT WRIGLEY Celebrates 20 years August
DID YOU KNOW?
OUT AT WRIGLEY is the longest-running Pride game in major U.S. pro sports?
The man behind the event, Bill Gubrud explains, “In 2001, I organized the largest Gay Day at a major league sporting event at Wrigley Field called Out at The Ballgame (now called Out at Wrigley). I went to the Cubs and told them I wanted to do a Gay Day,” Gubrud told Front Office Sports. “I asked how many seats were in a section and he said 2,000. I responded, ‘OK, I’ll take them all. That’s how we started. In 2012 and continuing this year, we bought out the new Budweiser Patio Deck as well as general seating in the ball park.”
That’s an amazing accomplishment!
In less than 2 weeks, OUT AT WRIGLEY celebrates 20 years! Sunday August 22nd is the date.
Pride in the Park June 26 & 27, 2021
PRIDE IN THE PARK ANNOUNCES LEGENDARY LINEUP THAT BRINGS TOGETHER THE QUEEN OF FUNK AND QUEER ICON, THE GREATEST DJ OF ALL TIME, AND THE PRODIGAL PRODUCER THAT IS SURE TO PRODUCE SICKENING SOUNDS AND ONE OF THE BEST PRIDE MUSIC FESTIVALS OF THE YEAR
Pride in the Park Chicago, presented by Truly Hard Seltzer, proudly announces the legendary lineup for this years’ Main event in Grant Park (downtown Chicago) on June 26 and 27, along with being one of the city’s first in-person festivals.
HEADLINING IN ALPHABETICAL ORDER
- Chaka Khan, the legendary Queen of Funk, Queer Icon, and ten-time Grammy-winning artist.
- GRYFFIN, the self-taught prodigal producer, with a #1 on Spotify’s US and Global Viral charts and #2 on Spotify’s New Music Friday playlist.
- Tiësto, a Grammy award-winning artist, dubbed “the world’s greatest DJ,” the Godfather of EDM, and commanding the title of “best DJ of the last 20 years.
FULL LINEUP
- Betty Who, the Australian-American singer and songwriter of “I Love You Always Forever,” peaked inside the top ten in Australia and reached the top of the Billboard Dance Club Songs chart in the United States.
- Tracy Young, a Grammy award-winning producer, history-maker, and proud member of the LGBTQ community, she is the first woman ever to win a Grammy in the category of best-remixed recording.
- Alyssa Edwards, the iconic star from Emmy-winning television series “RuPaul’s Drag Race,” American entertainer, choreographer, and television personality.
- Derrick Carter, a Queer, Black Chicago-native, was named No. 53 in the 100 Most Famous Chicagoans, is regarded as one of the best underground house key players in the U.S. and Europe.
Among these show-stoppers, there will be other renowned and diverse artists such as CircuitMOM, Hector Fonseca, Tony Moran, Lady D, The Vixen Denali Foxx, Karsten Sollors, Tenderoni, Miss Toto, Mila Jam, Kinley Preston, Traci Ross, Naysha Lopez, It Jomama, Hinkypunk, Kara Mel D’Ville, Sheeza Woman, Avi Sic, Matt Suave, O’Laysia, Chamilla Foxx, Zoliy Miyake Mugler for Ballroom Pride & Guest Speakers.
Dusty Carpenter, Pride in the Park Chicago President and Lead Organizer, said, “To say we are excited is an understatement. We have legendary artists – with 12 Grammys combined – diverse Allies and Queer icons that are going to simply bring the house down. What better way to celebrate our Pride than with amazing music in a diverse and inclusive atmosphere? We continue to celebrate Pride to remind us of our achievements and to also remind us of our history, struggles, and work that is yet to be done.”
Proud Partnerships Uphold Our Commitment to Equality, Equity, and Big Entertainment
- We are proud to continue its official charity partnership with The Center on Halsted – donating a portion of ticket sales and providing in-kind tickets to ensure LGBTQ+, and underprivileged youth may participate, feel welcomed, and celebrate their pride openly.
- We are proud to continue another community activity on Pride weekend; the awards ceremony for Pride Bowl XIII will be held at the festival. Now in its 13th year, Pride Bowl is an LGBTQ+ flag football tournament played on Chicago’s lakefront as part of Pride weekend.
- A new Proud Partnership with Chicago’s very own CircuitMOM Productions – commanding their own onsite performances. Consistently bringing exceptional performances, outrageous outfits, drag kings and queens, world-famous DJs, and that signature electric house music that only CircuitMOM can deliver.
- A new Proud Partnership with Health Pass by CLEAR. Health Pass is a free mobile experience on the CLEAR app that securely connects a user’s verified identity to multiple layers of COVID-19-related health information to help reduce public health risk and get people back to what they love.
- We are proud to continue a partnership with Howard Brown Health and other Chicago testing providers to give attendees as many options as possible. If not fully vaccinated, we highly suggest you get tested Thursday or Friday prior to the event at one of the COVID PCR testing centers around the city.
VISIT WEBSITE FOR MORE INFORMATION ON OUR PROUD PARTNERS AND OUR FULL COVD-19 HEALTH SAFETY PLAN
WHAT: Pride in the Park Chicago LGBTQ+ live, outdoor festival
WHERE: Grant Park – BUTLER FIELD (Downtown Chicago) | 100 S Lakeshore Drive, Chicago, IL
WHEN: Saturday, June 26 and Sunday, June 27 // TIMES: 2:00 PM-10:00 PM, 3:00 PM – 10:00 PM
LAUNCHING JUNE PRIDE MONTH WITH AIDS GARDEN CHICAGO GROUNDBREAKING
The Honorable Mayor Lori Lightfoot, Alderman Tom Tunney, Congressman Mike Quigley, Congresswoman Jan Schakowsky, State Senator Sara Feigenholtz, State Representatives Greg Harris and Margaret Croke, Chicago Parks Foundation Executive Director Willa Lang, and Chicago Park District General Superintendent and CEO Mike Kelly, along with members of the LGBTQ community, officially and joyfully ‘broke the ground’ on the long-awaited AIDS Garden Chicago Wednesday, June 2, 2021.
Located at Lake Shore Drive and Belmont Avenue, AIDS Garden Chicago is the city’s first public park to memorialize the early days of Chicago’s HIV epidemic, and honors those who continue to fight against the disease today.
Taking place in front of the Garden’s anchor piece, the stunning 30-foot Keith Haring sculpture, ‘Self-Portrait,’ official remarks were followed by a powerful spoken word performance by Chicago-bred Black Queer playwright, poet and activist Osiris Khepera.
“It brings me great joy to officially break ground on AIDS Garden Chicago in a location that means so much to our LGBTQ+ communities,” said Chicago Mayor Lori Lightfoot. “As we memorialize those we’ve lost to the HIV epidemic and honor those who continue to fight this disease, it has never been more important to immortalize Belmont Rocks’ legacy as a safe space where people could gather, support one another and be their full selves. I look forward to seeing this garden come to life by the end of this year and become our city’s newest symbol of liberation, individuality and stewardship.”
Alderman Tom Tunney said, “I thank everyone who attended the AIDS Garden Chicago groundbreaking event; in the face of the AIDS epidemic, countless people took action and worked to provide health care, housing, food or other services to meet basic needs of our friends and neighbors who became infected with HIV/AIDS. Many of these same people worked tirelessly to see this garden, the city’s first public park to memorialize the early days of Chicago’s HIV epidemic, come to fruition. AIDS Garden Chicago is a living garden and an educational tool that symbolizes the resiliency of the LGBTQ community. AIDS Garden Chicago is intended to be a safe space for all: those who are queer or straight, those with any gender identity, those from any race or ethnicity. The AIDS epidemic impacted people of all backgrounds from all communities and walks of life and we recognize the human toll for all. Thank you to all who have helped make AIDS Garden Chicago possible.”
Added Chicago Parks Foundation Executive Director Willa Lang, “Especially at this time, during the pandemic, when so many marginalized communities were impacted disproportionately, we remember, recognize and honor those amazing joyful lives lived and lost during the AIDS epidemic at this magnificent site along the lake front. But what is most important to remember is that there are those who still live with HIV/AIDS today, individuals not yet welcome, not well-served and still struggling to be seen. Our work is not yet done. AIDS Garden Chicago is a garden for all. A safe place to tell the stories, reflect and celebrate all lives and our differences as well. The Belmont Rocks will live on in this lush wandering garden of beauty, joy and shared love. The Chicago Parks Foundation is honored to lead this project to its completion and look forward to bringing our communities together again when we cut the ribbon on AIDS Garden Chicago this fall.”
Other VIPS in attendance at the groundbreaking included: Chicago Park District Manager of Art Initiatives Mike Dimitroff, Chicago Parks Foundation Board Member Michael Erwin, OUTspoken co-founder David Fink, Chicago Park District Director of Planning and Development Heather Gleason, business woman and activist Christie Hefner, former Alderman Tunney representative Chris Jessup, community gardener Nancy Juda, Design Workshop garden designer Manisha Kaul, Legacy Project Co-Founder Owen Keehnen, former State Senator William Marovitz, Alphawood Foundation Executive Director Jim McDonough, Executive Director of The Arts Club of Chicago Janine Mileaf, community supporter Vicki Noe, current Alderman Tunney Director of Business Affairs and Special Events Jessica Papp, President and CEO of AIDS Foundation Chicago John Peller, former State Representative Yoni Pizer, Rosenthal Fine Art’s Dennis Rosenthal and Susan Pool, Legacy Project Co-Founder and Executive Director Victor Salvo, and Lincoln Park Conservancy Executive Director Doug Widener.
The 2.5 acre AIDS Garden Chicago is situated on Lake Michigan at the original location of the historic Belmont Rocks, a beloved space where the local gay community gathered between the 1960s and 1990s. The Garden’s first phase was completed in late 2019 with the installation of its anchor piece, the stunning 30-foot Keith Haring sculpture, ‘Self-Portrait.’ The Garden will include unique areas designed for reflection, education, honor, and pride. Visitors will be guided through a variety of collective garden spaces all providing a sensory nature experience, most notably a Gingko Reflection Grove. The Foundation will soon launch the AIDS Garden Story Archive, a digital quilt of personal shared experiences to be posted on the AIDS Garden Chicago website. AIDS Garden Chicago, a “park with purpose,’ expects to open in Fall 2021.
The Chicago Parks Foundation thanks current AIDS Garden Chicago partners: Alderman Tom Tunney, Alphawood Foundation, TAWANI Foundation, Walgreens, Beaumier Donor Advised Family Fund, the Elizabeth Morse Trust and the Chicago Park District in addition to tireless advocacy by the State of Illinois, Senator Sara Feigenholtz, Leader Greg Harris, Representative Mike Quigley, State Rep Margaret Croke and former State Representative Yoni Pizer. Further thanks to: AIDS Foundation of Chicago, Center on Halsted, Design Workshop, Friends of the Parks, Howard Brown Health, Keith Haring Foundation, Legacy Project, Mariano’s, The Moth and Rosenthal Fine Art, Inc.
The Chicago Parks Foundation is leading the Garden’s fundraising and community conversations. Established in 2013 as the nonprofit partner of Chicago’s parks, the Chicago Parks Foundation operates in a public-private partnership with the Chicago Park District to provide fiscal partnership to foundations, organizations, and individuals who wish to support their parks. For more information, visit Chicago Parks Foundation.
Boystown Chicago Northalsted Market Days 2021
Northalsted Market Days® is set to return to Chicago in 2021: August 6, 7 and 8, adding a Friday night edition for the first time. The 1/2 mile long street festival has been an annual summer tradition in Chicago for nearly 4 decades.
As widespread vaccinations continue making progress against the pandemic, planning is underway for a much anticipated comeback.
With safety at the forefront, planning involves continual contact with health officials in the City of Chicago, the State of Illinois and monitoring of CDC guidelines in order to take all necessary precautions to ensure a safe event.
Since the first Market Day in August, 1982, the LGBTQ+ positive event has grown from a handful of folding tables and chairs on the sidewalk, to a half-mile long, annual summer ritual on Chicago’s North Halsted Street from Belmont to Addison.
39 years later, Market Days is now considered among Chicago’s top ten festivals. Thousands attend from near and far enjoying all-day lineups of live music on 5 stages, hundreds of vendors, summer food & drinks, dancing in the street, and more. Subscribe to the newsletter for the latest updates and this year’s entertainment details.
A $15 suggested donation for entry helps cover festival costs, benefits local charities and supports year round Northalsted chamber programming in the community. Generous public donations, funded the Chicago Pride Crosswalks project, the longest installation of its kind in the world, covering 14 intersections.
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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Gay LGBTQ Diversity Night at Six Flags September 12th, 2020
OUT IN THE PARK will return for it’s ninth year, on September 12th, 2020!
Six Flags were given the green light to open their waterparks (Hurricane Harbor Gurnee & Rockford) last week and have begun hiring staff for the opening of the main park, which will happen in the coming weeks.
The Six Flags Re-Opening Plan was developed in coordination with expert epidemiologists and is designed to protect Six Flags guests and Team Members from potential exposure to COVID-19. Learn about their safety protocols HERE .
$45 advance Tickets are on sale now via smartphone or with a PC and printer. Details here.
Parking is FREE.
Season Passes are not accepted.
The private night event is 8pm – 12am. Only 5000 tickets will be sold.
The park will be open to the general public that day 11am-7pm. You may enter the park during the day if you wish to enjoy the park with the general public.
Round trip Bus tickets will be available – details soon.
Gay Bars forced to Stop Indoor Drinking
GAY BARS forced to close down, again.
Indoor bar service has officially shut down for a second time in Chicago as several heightened restrictions took effect Friday following weeks of reopening progress during the coronavirus pandemic.
Devastating news for many businesses 🙁
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 .
Chicago Pride Fest and Gay Pride Parade Canceled
As we navigate through these unprecedented times, the Northalsted Business Alliance announces the postponement of Chicago Pride Fest 🏳️🌈 originally scheduled for June 20-21. It is our hope to reschedule this Pride celebration for Labor Day weekend, September 5-6, 2020.
Andersonville Midsommerfest – The Andersonville Chamber of Commerce will postpone Andersonville Midsommarfest originally scheduled for June 12-14, 2020 to the weekend of August 21-23, 2020. This decision was made with careful consideration in light of the current restriction of large gatherings needed to bend the curve and stop the spread of the COVID19 virus.
Pride in the Park Chicago has been rescheduled until June 26th and 27th, 2021.
Gay Pride Parade – Letter from Chicago Pride Parade 2020….
“We are sad to announce that the annual Pride Parade will not take place this year on June 28. We announce this postponement in the hope that conditions will allow the parade to take place later this summer or early fall.
We have always felt that safety is the first priority for our participants in the parade; the hundreds of thousands of spectators; as well as all the city agencies and independent contractors that work so hard to make the parade a success every year.
We hope that there will be a possibility to re-schedule. However, If that is not possible, we know that the Pride Parade will be back in 2021 and for years to come.”
At this time Heatwave 2020 is still scheduled for July 18, 2020
Northalsted Market Days is still scheduled for August 8 & 9, 2020
Out in the Park @ Six Flags September 12th, 2020
Boystown Winter Fun Feb 8th and 9th
FEB 8th! The Boystown Soup & Sip is a fun afternoon of sampling hot soup, cold beer, small bites, whiskey & more at 20+ locations!
Soup & Small Bites:
D.S. Tequila Company – Drew’s on Halsted – El Mariachi Tequila Bar – Elevate Coffee Company – Fajita Factory – #ForeverYogurt – Lark – Roscoe’s Tavern – The Chicago Diner – Wood Chicago – Whole Foods Market
Beverage Sampling:
Bacardi – Casamigos – CH Distillery – Crystal Head Vodka – DryHop Brewers – EFFEN Vodka – Fireball Whisky – Goose Island – Jameson Irish Whiskey – Maker’s Mark – Short Fuse Brewing Company – Sierra Nevada – Skrewball Whiskey – Virtue Cider
Locations:
Ahf Pharmacy/Out Of The Closet Thrift Store – CBD Kratom Chicago – Chicago Male Salon & Spa – Cram Fashion – Crosstown Fitness – Northside – Double Trip Press – FFC Boystown – Kozy’s Cyclery: Lakeview – Men’s Room Chicago – Sidetrack The Video Bar – Strong Hands Studio &Personal Training – Two Hearted Queen – Universal Wellness Source – Zea Salon
Also featuring Lakeside Pride Cabaret performing at Sidetrack and Pride Arts Center ticket giveaway
ADVANCE TICKETS $20 – soupandsip.com
FEB 9th – Join us for Boystown Ice Follies at Gallagher Way, an outdoor skate party & drag show!
It’s a Sunday Funday of skating hilarity, live DJ, hot drinks, cold beer/cocktails & drag entertainment. Featuring ice queen Denali @Denali Foxx, DJ @CircuitMOM & host Alexis Bevels.
Presented by Boystown & Circuitmom Productions
Part of Chill Out Weekend with Boystown Soup & Sip!
Boystown Ice Follies at Gallagher Way Chicago
3637 N Clark next to Wrigley Field
Sunday February 9, 2-5pm
Admission $12 at the door
Includes skate fee & 1/2 price skates
icefollieschicago.com
Then ride a special Boystown trolley to The North End for the Ice Follies After Party featuring drink specials & giveaways by Egoist Underwear & Pride Arts Center, and hosts Denali Foxx & Alexis Bevels.
The North End Ice Follies After Party
Sunday February 9, 4-7pm
3733 N Halsted St
AIDS Garden Chicago Gets 30′ Haring Sculpture
AIDS GARDEN CHICAGO TO UNVEIL SIGNATURE 30-FOOT KEITH HARING SCULPTURE, SELF-PORTRAIT, THIS FALL, COMPLETING FIRST PHASE OF NEW PUBLIC LAKEFRONT GARDEN
In partnership with the Chicago Parks Foundation, the new AIDS Garden Chicago will memorialize the early days of Chicago’s HIV epidemic & honor those who continue to fight against the disease
The Chicago Parks Foundation today announced that the first phase of the new AIDS Garden Chicago will be complete this Fall with the unveiling of a specially-commissioned 30-foot-high sculpture, Self-Portrait, by iconic HIV/AIDS activist and artist, the late Keith Haring. (Precise installation date to be announced.) AIDS Garden Chicago will be the city’s first public monument to memorialize the early days of Chicago’s HIV epidemic and to honor those who continue to fight against the disease today. As previously released, the new 2.5-acre public lakefront garden will be located along Lake Michigan just south of Belmont Harbor, at the original location of the ‘Belmont Rocks,’ a space where the local gay community gathered between the 1960s and 1990s.
“The fight against HIV/AIDS represents more than a health epidemic: it symbolizes a time in our history when the LGBTQ+ and ally communities came together in the face of tragedy,” said Mayor Lori E. Lightfoot. “We lost countless neighbors and friends and relatives over the years, but we have made significant strides in combatting the virus. What was one of the darkest moments of the 20th century has given way to a blooming garden of hope and love; this new AIDS Garden Chicago will serve as a permanent reminder of how far we have come and as a way to honor those who continue the work of getting to zero new HIV infections.”
“The Chicago Parks Foundation is so honored to be a part of this historic and legacy project for the city and all the communities and individuals who have been affected and still are living with HIV/AIDS. We are far from eradicating the disease, but this garden and iconic Keith Haring sculpture will serve as a beacon of hope and unity for all. This is truly a park with a purpose and a message,” said Chicago Parks Foundation Executive Director Willa Lang.
“We have worked closely with some of our longtime community leaders, held meetings with various community groups and are now excited to start phase one of this overdue project,” said Alderman Tom Tunney (44). “Self-Portrait’s new home at AIDS Garden Chicago, in the 44th Ward, is a small but powerful way to continue talking about the epidemic as we fight to bring both HIV infections and AIDS-related deaths to zero.”
Bold, bright green and nearly three stories high, Self-Portrait will be the largest iteration of this popular sculpture that has ever been fabricated, and the Chicago Parks Foundation expects it to be the Garden’s signature anchor and gathering point. Working with the Chicago Park District and designed by landscape architects Design Workshop, AIDS Garden Chicago is set to be complete in 2020 and will include unique areas designed for reflection, education, honor, and pride. Visitors will be guided with markers and milestones through a variety of intimate and collective garden spaces to be coordinated and maintained by community gardeners still in formation. This park garden will provide a sensory nature experience; the most notable being a memorable grove of Gingko trees and a perennial garden of natural plantings at the entrance. A serpentine path will be the site for future temporary art installations organized by community partners.
Self-Portrait is provided to AIDS Garden Chicago through a generous gift from the Keith Haring Foundation with personal financial support from Alderman Tom Tunney that was matched by the Alphawood Foundation Chicago. Rosenthal Fine Art, which facilitated the conversation with the Haring Foundation, was established here in 1986 and has most recently been dedicated to making art more accessible to the public through partnerships with private developers and city agencies.
Keith Haring (1958-1990) generously contributed his talents and resources to numerous causes. In 1989, Haring established a foundation to ensure that his philanthropic legacy would continue indefinitely. The Keith Haring Foundation supports arts and educational institutions by funding exhibitions, educational programs, and publications that serve to contextualize and illuminate the artist’s work and philosophy.
Alderman Tom Tunney and the Chicago Parks Foundation thank all the valuable partners still in formation and continuing to grow, including the Keith Haring Foundation, AIDS Foundation of Chicago, Alphawood Foundation Chicago, Center on Halsted, Friends of the Parks, Howard Brown Health, and Legacy Project. The Chicago Parks Foundation welcomes additional financial partners to help bring the project to completion.
The Chicago Parks Foundation, the charitable partner to the Chicago Park District, was established in 2013 as a nonprofit to operate in a private-public partnership in support of Chicago’s parks, independent and collaborative in spirit. The Foundation facilitates over $2.3 million in grants annually that support Chicago parks and park programs. More information can be found at https://www.chicagoparksfoundation.org/
More information on AIDS Garden Chicago can be found at AIDSgardenchicago.org.
Aids Run Walk Chicago October 5th 2019
“Live True. Be You” at the 2019 AIDS Run & Walk Chicago
On Saturday, Oct. 5, advocates from across Chicago and beyond will gather to support those living with and vulnerable to HIV at the 2019 AIDS Run & Walk Chicago. Held at Soldier Field, the 18th annual event encourages participants to live true as they raise vital awareness and funds for the AIDS Foundation of Chicago (AFC) and 27 CommunityDirect partners. The proceeds benefit programs and services improving the lives of those affected by HIV and AIDS and other chronic conditions.
The event attracts thousands of participants annually, who gather at one of Chicago’s most iconic locations for the 5K walk and 5K and 10K runs. Participants travel a scenic route along Lake Michigan and finish at Soldier Field. This vibrant event will mobilize the community under the theme “Live true. Be you.”
“The theme this year continues to be “Live True. Be You”, as living each day authentically is a crucial part of embracing who we are as a community and showing how we can make a difference for people living with and vulnerable to HIV and AIDS,” said Dustin Erikstrup, AFC’s Senior Manager of Special Events. “It is important to live true and openly each day in this unpredictable climate. AIDS Run & Walk Chicago provides this safe space where people can express themselves.”
In addition to AFC, 27 community organizations serving Chicago’s HIV and AIDS population are also beneficiaries of the funds raised at AIDS Run & Walk Chicago as part of the CommunityDirect program. Participating CommunityDirect organizations kick off the event’s fundraising efforts by registering their own team for the 5K walk, 5K or 10K runs. Many of this year’s community partners have been involved in the event for years, providing opportunities for other organizations to participate and support its fundraising efforts.
AFC recently joined forces with the Illinois Department of Public Health, the Chicago Department of Public Health, and other statewide partners to launch Getting to Zero Illinois. This is a state-wide initiative to end the HIV epidemic in Illinois by 2030 with the help of community-based organizations, health care providers, local government agencies and local members of Illinois’ HIV community. The initiative focuses on increasing the current rates of PrEP (a daily prevention pill that is up to 99 percent effective when taken consistently and correctly) and other HIV treatments to attain fewer than 100 new HIV cases per year.
In Illinois, an estimated 45,000 people live with HIV or AIDS. AFC, along with community organizations and other partners, are working tirelessly to get this number down to zero through their advocacy and fundraising efforts. The AIDS Run & Walk Chicago provides the ideal opportunity to raise money and awareness for and the groups and individuals who are working to combat the epidemic in Illinois.
Since its establishment in 2001, the AIDS Run & Walk Chicago has raised more than $6 million to battle the epidemic. For more information or to participate, visit aidsrunwalk.org or call 312-334-0946.
2019 CommunityDirect Partners
Michael Reese Care Program at Mercy
Chicago Recovery Alliance
Lurie SID
The Night Ministry
Agape Missions
Public Health Institute of Metropolitan Chicago
Center on Halsted
Chicago House and Social Service Agency
AMITA Health Housing & Health Alliance
Legal Beagles (Legal Council for Health Justice)
Season of Concern
Open Door
Howard Brown
Sinai/Holy Cross Strolling Bones
SWOP – Chicago (Sex Workers Outreach Project)
CCHE (Chicago Center for HIV Elimination
Pride Action Tank
Men and Women in Prison Ministries
Catholic Charities
Mother and Child Alliance
Team CCHIP (Ruth M. Rothstein CORE Center)
DANCE FOR LIFE CHICAGO
Erie Family Health Centers
Chicago Black Gay Men’s Caucus
Team Loyola
New Ages Services Corporation
Team HAI (Heartland Alliance International)
About AFC
About the AIDS Foundation of Chicago: AFC mobilizes communities to create equity and justice for people living with and vulnerable to HIV or chronic conditions. AFC aspires to create a world in which people living with HIV or chronic conditions will thrive, and there will be no new HIV cases. More at: aidschicago.org.
One Night Only Special Dinner Sept 5th
Exclusive Maestro Dobel Agave Dinner
Thursday, September 5th, 2019 | 7:00 p.m. | Chicago
Nothing makes us happier than a good tequila cocktail…and this event has THREE!
We’ll spend the night dining and drinking on El Mariachi’s patio with special guest speaker and field brand specialist, Dean Stojanov from Maestra Dobel Tequila.
For only $50/person Dean will take Lakeview Supper Club members through a 3-course Agave Dinner (see above for menu). *Gratuity not included. Members can bring up to 4 guests at membership pricing.
The password to purchase tickets is: TeAmoTequila
> Click Here to Purchase Tickets!
Boystown Rainbows get Landmark Status
CBS2 Chicago – “The Chicago City Council on Wednesday officially designated the rainbow pylons and Legacy Walk on the Boystown strip of North Halsted Street as a landmark.
The designation was part of a package of legislation that had been advanced by the Zoning and Landmarks Committee, chaired by Ald. Tom Tunney (44th).
Tunney was joined by LGBTQ activists Victor Salvo, Lori Cannon and Rick Garcia for the designation.
“I wanted to say the designation will make the Legacy Walk and the rainbow pylon streetscape the only multi-acre site in the world to be declared a landmark because of its importance to the LGBT people,” Tunney said at the City Council meeting Wednesday.
Ten pairs of 25-foot pylons featuring the rainbow Pride flag colors stand along Halsted Street between Belmont Avenue and Grace Street. Each pylon has a bronze memorial plaque that commemorates the legacy of notable LGBT individuals and groups.”
DID YOU KNOW???
those 20-foot bronze sculptures, and their rainbow rings, lining North Halsted Street were erected (!) by then Mayor Daley. In 1998 they officially designated the area a gay ’hood as part of his Neighborhoods Alive program. Sure, these faux-futuristic structures are both noticeably phallic (what were they thinking?) and almost superfluous in today’s increasingly gay-friendly world. But back in the late ’90s, this was a big deal.
“When Chicago designated Halsted Street as a gay neighborhood and put up the pylons, that was the first time a U.S. city had officially designated a neighborhood as being ‘gay,’ ” says William Greaves, director for the city’s advisory council on lesbian, gay, bisexual and transgender issues. “It was groundbreaking.”
To ensure Chicago’s claim in queer history, Daley withstood outcries from straight residents, who argued a gay ghetto would lower their property values (uh, more like raise them!), and even from gay folks, who feared outing the ’hood could cause a spike in gay bashing. But everything worked out just fine!
Chicago Market Days 2019 Aug 10-11
Northalsted Market Days® is the largest street festival in the Midwest and Chicago’s hottest summer celebration, August 10-11, 2019.
The 38th annual Northalsted Market Days® is a weekend long festival celebrating life & community in Chicago’s historic Boystown/Lakeview district. The 1/2 mile long festival features all-day lineups of live music on 5 stages, 200+ unique vendors, arts, crafts, food and drink, DJ’s and dancing, sponsor booths, and more!
Featuring live performances by Daya, Icona Pop, Sheila E, Deborah Cox, Jake Shears and more.
Admission: $10 Suggested Donation – All Ages
Location: Boystown on Halsted Street from Belmont to Addison
Hours: 11am – 10pm, August 10-11, 2019
Public Transportation: A short walk away from the CTA Belmont Red/Brown/Purple Line Station or the CTA Addison Red Line Station
Weather: Open rain or shine, please be advised that severe conditions may delay or cancel performances
Security: No large bags/backpacks allowed, all bags will be inspected prior to entry. No coolers or outside beverages.
Art on the Mart and Cirque du Soleil
Have you seen Art on theMART yet? It is the largest permanent digital art projection in the world! It’s pretty cool to have this in Chicago!
Cirque du Soleil and its current hit production, VOLTA, now playing under the Big Top at Soldier Field, takes inspiration from the City’s 2019 Year of Chicago Theatre with a vibrant, larger-than-life animated projection as part of the popular public art program Art on theMART. Click here for a preview.
VOLTA – a hit with both critics and consumers, alike, since opening May 21 — is a coming-of-age tale, a story of putting yourself on the line, facing spectacular challenges, and discovering for yourself what comes next. As developed expressly for Art on theMART, the projection named “VOLTA” reflects the state-of-the-art acrobatics, kinetic motion, grandiose scale, and human intimacy of the Cirque du Soleil show that inspired it, as told through the inimitable 3D animation and illusions of Chicago Projection Mapping, LLC. and concepted by creative media agency Empower. “VOLTA” can be seen as part of the Art on theMART program nightly, starting 15 minutes after sundown, through the end of the production’s engagement in Chicago, July 6, 2019.
The 2019 Year of Chicago Theatre is a city-wide celebration of Chicago’s theater community spearheaded by the City of Chicago’s Department of Cultural Affairs and Special Events (DCASE) and the League of Chicago Theatres.
“VOLTA is set in an urban environment and is inspired by the street fashion and culture. There is no better way to express that energy than by being part of the biggest urban artwork in Chicago,” said Steven Ross, Senior Publicist of VOLTA by Cirque du Soleil. “When we visit a city, we try to get involved and get inspired as much as possible by the local community. Working hand in hand with the Chicago creators and being invited to bring our colors to Art on theMART is a very powerful way for us to connect with the local people and celebrate the talents from here.”
“Art on theMART seeks to activate the façade of theMART with a variety of creative approaches that are accessible to all Chicagoans and visitors. We welcome the opportunity to bring the captivating work of the Cirque du Soleil artists onto our public platform,” added Cynthia Noble, Executive Director of Art on theMART. Watch for more cool visuals, as they change seasonally!
PRIDE NIGHT at Cirque is happening June 18th!
It will benefit Equality Illinois and you can get 15% OFF.
Enter code EQIL to enjoy 15% off tickets!
Cirque du Soleil is presenting VOLTA’s Chicago engagement under its signature Big Top at the Soldier Field South Lot, 1410 Museum Campus Drive, Chicago, through July 6, 2019, only. Tickets, starting at $49, are available for purchase by visiting cirquedusoleil.com/volta or calling 1-877-9CIRQUE (1-877-924-7783).
FINALLY! Boystown Gets Rainbow Crosswalks!
Northalsted Business Alliance Announces Chicago Rainbow Pride Crosswalks
Boystown will get a little more colorful just in time for Pride Month this June with the planned addition of Chicago Rainbow Pride Crosswalks throughout the neighborhood. Initiated by the Northalsted Business Alliance, the rainbows will brighten the street at 14 crosswalks on east-west streets parallel to Halsted from Melrose north to Bradley, excluding Addison.
Thirteen of the crosswalks will feature the rainbow design that represents diversity and has become an inclusive symbol of the worldwide LGBTQ+ pride movement since the 1970’s. The 14th crosswalk will be dedicated to the transgender community. The blue, pink and white stripes found on the transgender flag will be located on Melrose south of the Howard Brown Health Center. This crosswalk will complement the mural at this intersection that has been dedicated to the queer and non-binary community.
The colorful crosswalks join the 20 iconic golden rainbow pylons, which are home to the Legacy Walk memorial plaques, the world’s only outdoor LGBTQ+ History Museum and now recognized by the Chicago Landmarks Commission as a Historic Landmark.
Funds for the Chicago Rainbow Pride Crosswalks come from Northalsted Business Alliance donated during the Chicago Pride Fest® and Northalsted Market Days® celebrations. This project has been in development since December 2018 with the Chicago Department of Transportation and the support of Alderman Tom Tunney and Alderman James Cappleman.
Northalsted President Ramesh Ariyanayakam explains the excitement around the additions.
“As an internationally recognized and historic landmark neighborhood, Boystown has been a place of acceptance and diversity for decades. These crosswalks show our commitment to maintaining a thriving LGBTQ+ community.”
About Northalsted
Since 1980, Northalsted Business Alliance (NBA) has worked collectively to enhance the entertainment district known as Boystown. Representing over 100 In & Proud businesses, NBA is recognized by the City of Chicago, national media outlets and residents for its leadership of advancing economic vitality and quality of life for the total community. To this end, NBA provides programs and services that will increase investment, security, opportunity and activity in our district
ART on the MART Sept 29th 6:30pm
In the spirit of Chicago’s great legacy of public art and culture, Art on theMART will be the longest-running and largest digital art projection in the world. The first-of-its-kind for Chicago, this curated series of digital artworks will be projected across 2.5 acres of theMART’s exterior river-façade.
LAUNCH – THIS SATURDAY!
Beginning at approximately 6:30 p.m., Wacker Dr. between N. Wells St. and N. Franklin St. will be closed off to traffic to enable public viewing of the projections. While viewing the inaugural program, the public will enjoy a live DJ, food trucks and a Lantern Procession presented by Light Up My Arts (LUMA8).
The art unveiling will begin at 7:15 p.m. with a fireworks show at 8:00 p.m.
Can’t make the launch? September 30 – December 30
begins at dusk Wednesdays through Sundays!
The artwork will be projected onto the river façade of theMART.
Where to view : Upper Wacker Drive between N. Wells St. and N. Franklin St. & The Jetty and Confluence areas on The Chicago Riverwalk between Wells and Lake St.
Where to enter The Riverwalk : The Riverwalk is accessible via any of the stairways along Wacker Dr. There are ADA compliant ramps providing Riverwalk access located at the east side of State St., the west side of Clark St., and the west side of Franklin St.
THE DETAILS
PROJECTORS – 34 Christie Digital Boxer 4K30 30,000 lumen projectors for a total of over one million lumens projected on the building façade.
PROJECTION SURFACE – The building façade is 556’x165′ or 91,740 ft² (over 2 acres), and the projection resolution will be 6000 x 2620.
READ MORE HERE!
AIDS Run Walk Chicago Sept 23rd
2018 AIDS Run & Walk Chicago Encourages Community to “Live True. Be You.”
On Sunday, Sept. 23, HIV advocates from across Chicago will live true at the 2018 AIDS Run & Walk Chicago. Held at Soldier Field, the 17th annual event will raise awareness and funds for the AIDS Foundation of Chicago (AFC) and 34 CommunityDirect partners, with proceeds benefiting programs and services improving the lives of Chicagoans living with and vulnerable to HIV.
Approximately, 2,500 participants gathered last year to participate in one of the city’s most vibrant annual runs and walks. This year’s event will mobilize the community under the theme “Live true. Be you.”
“When individuals live authentically and are encouraged to share their truth and stories, it fosters a sense of community, understanding and acceptance,” explains Dustin Erikstrup, AFC’s Senior Manager of Special Events. “In this unpredictable political climate, it is important to live openly, unapologetically and free from stigma. AIDS Run & Walk Chicago provides that safe place for participants to express themselves freely.”
AFC isn’t the only beneficiary of this event; 34 community organizations serving Chicago’s South, West and North sides, as well as surrounding counties, are beneficiaries of the funds raised at AIDS Run & Walk Chicago as part of the CommunityDirect program. To kick off the race’s fundraising efforts, each participating organization will be entering their own team into the 5K walk or the 5K and 10K runs. Many CommunityDirect partners have been a part of AIDS Run & Walk Chicago for a number of years, which provides many opportunities for organizations to participate.
Recently, AFC, the Illinois Department of Public Health, the Chicago Department of Public Health, and other statewide partners launched the planning phase for the Getting to Zero Illinois (GTZ-IL) campaign. The goal of this state-wide joint initiative is to end the HIV epidemic in Illinois by 2030 through partnerships with community-based organizations, health care providers, local government agencies and local members of the Illinois’ HIV community. If Illinois increases current rates of PrEP (a daily prevention pill that is up to 99 percent effective when taken consistently and correctly) and HIV treatment substantially, Illinois can reach fewer than 100 new HIV cases per year. The epidemic will then be unable to sustain itself, reaching, “functional zero.”
Approximately 43,500 Illinoisans are living with HIV, and AIDS Run & Walk Chicago provides the perfect opportunity to raise money to support those in the community and help end the stigma around HIV.
Since its 2001 acquisition by the AIDS Foundation of Chicago, the event has netted more than $5 million to battle the epidemic. For more information or to participate, visitaidsrunwalk.org or call 312-334-0946.
The pre-registration deadline is just a few weeks away!
Experience Barefoot Walking!
