PHILADELPHIA, September 20, 2016 – It’s no secret that Philadelphia is one of the LGBT-friendliest cities in the country, but Philly pride extends past the rainbow flag-adorned Gayborhood.
A Guide to LGBTQ+ Philadelphia: The Best Events & Venues in the Gayborhood and Beyond
Philadelphia boasts one of the oldest, most vibrant, and welcoming LGBTQ+ communities in the United States. The city's inclusive spirit is most famously embodied in its downtown "Gayborhood," a lively and historic neighborhood where rainbow street signs and pride flags are a year-round fixture. From iconic, multi-level nightclubs and cozy piano bars to crucial community centers and must-attend annual festivals, this guide will lead you through the essential LGBTQ+-centric events and venues in the City of Brotherly Love.
Iconic Bars & Nightlife in the Gayborhood
The heart of Philly's LGBTQ+ social scene is centered in the Gayborhood (roughly between 11th and Broad, and Walnut and Pine Streets).
- Woody's: An absolute Philadelphia institution for decades, Woody's is often the first stop for visitors and a long-standing favorite for locals. It's a massive, multi-room complex featuring a main video bar, a high-energy dance floor in the back, and the upstairs Globar lounge. It's a cornerstone of the community.
- Voyeur Nightclub: For those looking to dance the night away, Voyeur is the city's premier LGBTQ+ nightclub. This multi-level, after-hours club is known for its incredible sound system, top-tier DJs, and energetic crowds that keep the party going until the early morning.
- Tavern on Camac: A beloved and historic spot, Tavern on Camac is famous for its lively, sing-along piano bar on the first floor. It's a perfect place to gather with friends and belt out show tunes and pop hits. The upstairs features a cozy tavern and a dance floor that gets going later in the evening.
- U Bar: The quintessential friendly neighborhood gay bar, U Bar is a casual and welcoming spot with a great happy hour and a relaxed atmosphere. It's a perfect place to meet with friends for a drink and good conversation.
- Franky Bradley's: While not exclusively an LGBTQ+ bar, Franky Bradley's is a deeply inclusive and eclectic restaurant, bar, and performance venue that is a vital part of the queer scene. It's known for hosting fantastic drag shows, cabaret performances, and lively dance parties upstairs.
Community & Cultural Landmarks
- William Way LGBT Community Center: For over 40 years, the William Way Center has been the heart of Philadelphia's LGBTQ+ community. It serves as a crucial resource, a library and archive, an art gallery, and a gathering space for a huge variety of groups and events.
- Giovanni's Room: A true national treasure, Giovanni's Room (now part of Philly AIDS Thrift) is the oldest continuously operating LGBTQ+ and feminist bookstore in the United States. It's a must-visit for its incredible selection of books and its significant place in literary and queer history.
Must-Attend Annual Events
- Philly Pride March and Festival (June): The city's official and largest Pride celebration takes place every June. The event typically features a community march through the city, followed by a massive, day-long festival with live performances, food vendors, community resources, and thousands of attendees celebrating in the heart of the Gayborhood.
- OURfest - National Coming Out Parade and Festival (October): Philadelphia hosts one of the largest and most vibrant celebrations of National Coming Out Day in the country. OURfest is a huge outdoor street festival that takes over the Gayborhood with multiple stages of entertainment, a parade, and a massive block party.
- BlackStar Film Festival (August): While not exclusively an LGBTQ+ event, the BlackStar Film Festival is a world-renowned and Oscar-qualifying festival that prominently features and celebrates the work of queer filmmakers of color from around the globe. It's a vital and essential part of Philadelphia's cultural calendar.
From the legendary dance floors of its nightclubs to the historic shelves of its bookstores and the joyous energy of its annual festivals, Philadelphia's LGBTQ+ scene is diverse, historic, and incredibly welcoming. The Gayborhood stands as a proud and visible symbol of the city's inclusive spirit, offering a safe and celebratory space for the community and its allies all year long.
Sources:
- Visit Philadelphia (Official Tourism Website)
- The William Way LGBT Community Center
- Philly Pride 365 (for Pride event information)
- Local Philadelphia news outlets and publications (e.g., Philadelphia Gay News, The Philadelphia Inquirer)
- Official websites and social media pages for the listed venues and events
- Online review and travel planning websites
