Many of us refer to this time of year as the “dog days of summer. ” Often characterized by soaring temperatures, sweat-inducing humidity and the utilization of hard-earned vacation days, mid-August begins the seasonal transition from summer to fall. Even though Philly’s temperatures will remain warm through the end of September, there are few precious weeks left until kids are back at school and our work schedules accelerate. In recent years, I’ve used these “dog days” to get reacquainted with some of my favorite local spots — particularly those located in the Gayborhood.
Similar to the rich history of Philadelphia’s Old City, Society Hill and Rittenhouse Square neighborhoods, our Gayborhood is much more than a collection of restaurants, bars, residential spaces and community organizations. It’s a place where our local LGBT community was built and has evolved over the past several decades. It’s also where many leaders in the movement for LGBT civil rights developed their ideas, and then assembled the infrastructure as a viable social, political and civic group. When it was far from acceptable to be openly gay, urban enclaves filled with LGBT-friendly businesses and social groups provided safe spaces for individuals to interact without fear of physical violence or harassment.
With an eye toward the immediate future, many scholars and writers have considered the role of contemporary “gay neighborhoods.” Some argue that with increasing social acceptability, gay men and lesbians are now comfortable living in more suburban and rural locations, causing a “flight” from urban areas and a disinvestment in gay neighborhoods. Others note that LGBT residents and business owners have gentrified gay neighborhoods — only to have affluent mainstream developers and residents assimilate, and “price-out” many in the LGBT community.
Research can support each of these assertions, but I take issue with any argument that gay enclaves are no longer relevant and important to our community. As the political fight for equal rights generates more and more attention with every election cycle, I contend that gay neighborhoods remain as important now as they did in the 1960s, ’70s and ’80s. Gay men and lesbians still require unencumbered social, political and civic spaces where our ideas and perspectives can continue to evolve. With that in mind, I encourage everyone to find some time to get “out” in the Gayborhood — this space is critical for our community, and it cannot be replaced or replicated. Here are a few suggestions to get you started:
If you’re not aware of Philly Gay Calendar’s sixth annual Boys of Summer Party taking place tonight at Pure Nightclub, 1221 St. James St., you must be living under a rock. One of the year’s most popular special events, Boys of Summer redefines the term “swimsuit party.” Featuring a live performance from porn star-turned-singer Colton Ford, Pure will be filled with sexy lifeguards, a jaw-dropping “hot-body” contest and myriad special surprises. This party seems to get more legendary every year, so don’t miss all the festivities starting at 9 p.m. The cover charge is $12 if you’re in a swimsuit and $15 in regular dress. All proceeds benefit phillygaycalendar.com.
One of the Gayborhood’s most popular restaurants and nightspots is Bump Lounge, 1234 Locust St. Now under new ownership, customers can expect some exciting changes over the next couple of months. From new promotions to an impending renovation, the owners are excited about the future. “We are planning a major facelift beginning Sept. 1, which will bring a more modern and classic aesthetic. Our goal is to create an environment that is warm, intimate and sexy,” said managing partner John Caputo. “We are also working on new happy-hour menus and special-event promotions for each night of the week. Look forward to a huge grand-opening celebration following our renovation in early September.”
For those who, like me, are fans of live competition, mark your calendar for Sept. 26 as Nightlifegay.com presents the first annual Gayborhood Games at Pure Nightclub. If you have what it takes to make it in the entertainment industry, then sign up to compete in Philly’s first live contest to identify the fiercest local dance crew, vocalist, comedian, chef, bartender, hair stylist and drag performer. The Gayborhood Games is a battle for supremacy and a year’s worth of bragging rights open to anyone in the Philadelphia region — and not just the Gayborhood. Visit Nightlifegay.com for more information.
I hope each of us will spend some time in the Gayborhood over the next couple of weeks. ’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].