Amber Gibson 2021-02-04 10:45:28
Check out the best spots for clubbing, shopping, and theatre-going in Chicago’s LGBTQ+ neighborhoods. NORTHALSTED NIGHTLIFE Chicago’s Northalsted neighborhood (also known as Boystown) is renowned for its diverse nightlife scene. One hot spot is Sidetrack, which features a year-round rooftop, frozen cocktails, and popular events like show tunes nights. Hit the dance floor after a game of pool at Roscoe’s, an LGBTQ+ staple since 1987. The crowd here tends to be younger, and DJs and karaoke keep everyone in high spirits. Drag queen divas provide tableside entertainment at Kit Kat Lounge & Supper Club, where the martini and cocktail list includes more than 200 drinks. There’s no better place for dinner and a show. ANDERSONVILLE SHOPPING Stylish shoppers will appreciate the curated experience at Cowboys & Astronauts. Find everything from personal wellness products to fashionable accessories. Foursided is best known for its custom framing services, along with an eclectic array of handmade greeting cards, Chicago-themed souvenirs, local art, and one-of-a-kind antiques. It’s the perfect stop for home decor and cards for any occasion. One of the largest feminist and LGBTQ+ bookstores in the country, Women & Children First believes in sharing the transformative power of reading and amplifying underrepresented voices. The shop hosts author events several times a week. UPTOWN ARTS The walls at lively, cash-only bar Big Chicks and next-door sister restaurant Tweet are lined with art from owner Michelle Fire’s personal collection. Every inch of space is covered with paintings and photographs, so guests can survey the gallery over brunch pancakes. The Baton Show Lounge has celebrated drag queen pageantry for more than 50 years. The legendary venue now features a new outdoor cafe and patio bar, too. Regular shows run Thursday through Sunday, and are a favorite with bachelorette parties. Pride Arts Center on Broadway Street is a two-stage performing arts center that hosts play readings, film screenings, and cabaret nights focused on equality and diversity. TOP 5 LGBTQ+ EVENTS Each June, Chicago Pride Fest takes over Northalsted for an epic two-day celebration with 100,000 revelers, three music stages, and hundreds of arts and food vendors. It all culminates in the Chicago Pride Parade the last Sunday of the month. chicagopride.gopride.com Pride in the Park takes place in Grant Park in June. Catch a stellar lineup of musical acts, drag queens and kings, DJs spinning house music, and a Pride-themed fireworks display. prideintheparkchicago.com The largest street festival in the Midwest, Northalsted Market Days is an August music festival spanning six blocks in Northalsted (from Addison to Belmont), with live performances, DJs, and dancing. northalsted.com/marketdays Reeling Film Festival, held in September, is one of the oldest festivals dedicated to international LGBTQ+ films. See shorts, documentaries, and narrative features. reelingfilmfestival.org Hundreds of costumed goblins, witches, and zombies merrily march in the free Haunted Halsted Halloween Parade on Halloween night. Cash prizes are awarded for the best costumes. hauntedhalsted.com
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