Welcome to 2009! After two weeks of holiday festivities, many of us will use this weekend to rest up before returning to work on Jan. 5. Though stapling yourself to the couch may seem like a good idea now, it won’t be long before cabin fever sets in. Very soon, you’ll want to get up and do something — but out of necessity or New Year’s resolutions, many of us are slashing our social budgets this year. In the city, it’s tough to find inexpensive options that satisfy our need for excitement. To help keep you afloat, I present my 2009 guide to a cost-effective social life. If you follow these rules, you’ll have a great time without breaking the bank. Enjoy! Rule 1: Double your pleasure to double your fun
A great way to save money is with special events that have two or more features in a single evening. Whether you’re into classic films, live music or the arts, there are many opportunities in Philadelphia to enjoy multiple performances or events under one roof — you just have to do your research.
One example is Ladies Night Out with Comedy and Music on Jan. 10 at Tin Angel, 20 S. Second St. Beginning at 7:30 p.m., the Lesbians of Laughter will take over the stage for a hilarious performance. After a short break, Tin Angel will rock out with local band September and headliner Ellis. Tickets for the entire evening will run about $27 a head. Visit www.tinangel.com for more information or to purchase tickets.
Rule 2: Free tickets are the best tickets
The typical gay or lesbian social calendar has a few nightclub events on it each year. Often organized for special promotions and celebrations, these gatherings involve one irritating element — the dreaded cover charge. But if you contact organizers or consult the promoter’s Web site, there is usually some chance to score free tickets. By entering your name in enough drawings, you’ll eventually win something.
In fact, you have the chance to secure tickets to a high-profile event right now. On Jan. 16, PURE, 1221 St. James St., will host the Battle of the Briefs from 9 p.m.-3:30 a.m. Though the cover is only $10, PhillyGayCalendar.com is running a contest for free tickets. Visit the Web site for more information.
Rule 3: Get charitable
One of the best ways to keep your social calendar full is by volunteering for a local nonprofit organization. It’s the perfect way to meet new people, and it doesn’t cost anything but a little time and energy. Since we’re at the beginning of the calendar year, most local nonprofits will hold a volunteer drive to pull in new recruits. With the recession affecting charitable giving across all types of organizations, there’s no better time to make a difference. Check out some of my favorite organizations — Mazzoni Center, Delaware Valley Legacy Fund, ActionAIDS and Sapphire Fund — for opportunities to get involved.
Rule 4: Be happy
We’re lucky in Philadelphia because many Gayborhood watering holes never charge a cover. Fan favorites like Bump, Knock and Tavern on Camac are always free and open to everyone. What’s even better is that these spots run amazing happy-hour specials on food and drinks. If you’re serious about saving money without sacrificing any bar time, try going out after work instead of late at night. Happy-hour prices make a notable difference over time, and you’re guaranteed to meet new people. Visit the Web site of your favorite Gayborhood bar for happy-hour menus and pricing.
Rule 5: Embrace the alternatives
There’s no better time to get out of your comfort zone and explore new social diversions than right now. Philadelphia has a (in)famous “fringe” arts and culture scene. Check out popular spots like the Trocadero and the Khyber for exciting live acts and events at bargain prices.
That’s it for this installment. If the aforementioned rules fail, just start dating a bartender. ’Til next time, get offline and see what your community has to offer!
If you have comments or information on upcoming events, e-mail [email protected], reference “Offline.”