If you’re like me, you’re not done Christmas shopping, you’re tired of shoveling snow and you’re gearing up for the holidays with family and fruitcake. Don’t despair: Philly’s LGBTQ scene is alive and well, with a ton of events for you to check out over the holidays. Remember, once the Christmas cookies are in the oven, presents wrapped and Christmas tree decorated, it’ll be time to unwind and let loose — and we’ve got the events for you to do just that. That said, leave your Snuggie behind and get dressed to play!”
Cheer takes place Dec. 26 at Stir Lounge, 1705 Chancellor St. With the Scene party changing venues, the producers are holding off on the new Scene party launch until January and throwing a post-holiday bash instead. DJ Lil Sis promises to keep you moving, and guest bartender Kayla will keep your drinks flowing from 9 p.m. ’til 2 a.m. Come spend time with friends and dance the night away with this hot crowd. This party will be crowded, so get there early! A $5 cover gets you through the door with drink specials until 11 p.m. For more info, see www.facebook.com/TLBTBproductions.
On Dec. 27, catch a live performance by Philly’s own MC Benni E. at The Khyber, 56 S. Second St. Self-described as a revolutionary gender-bending firecracker, this out rapper is hot! She’s performing as part of South Broad, which starts at 8 p.m. and also features, the Jay D. Clark Band and the J. Gunzz Experience. This show is 21 and up and costs just $8. Make sure to catch MC Benni E., as she will not disappoint. Tickets can be purchased at www.thekhyber.com.
There’s a ton to do this year — more than any other — on New Year’s Eve in Philly. If you’re looking for an all-inclusive deal, then you should head over to Sisters, 1320 Chancellor St., to say goodbye to 2009. A $25 advance ticket gets you a three-hour, top-shelf open bar from 8-11 p.m. The ticket also includes access to the 20-foot dinner buffet, party hats and horns, plus music by DJ Fred. For ticket information, visit www.sistersnightclub.com.
If open bars aren’t your thing, then Stimulus has the party for you. Riding on the success of its monthly party, the producers of Stimulus are gearing up for their first New Year’s Eve event at Marathon Grill, 929 Walnut St. For this night, they’re taking over both floors, and will be celebrating New Year’s Eve with a three-tiered cake, drink specials and a complimentary champagne toast at midnight. DJ Glitz and Sparkles help set the mood and a $12 cover gets you in to a promised packed house. Tickets may be purchased at the door. Questions? E-mail [email protected].
On New Year’s Day, there’s nowhere else to be but Voyeur, 1221 St. James St., for the long-standing Ladies2000 bash. Hundreds of women pack this club the day after to celebrate the New Year and dance the day away. The $10 cover is definitely worth it and the bash kicks off at 3 p.m. with $3 drinks until 5. Remember, since this party is on a Friday, be ready to play all night long, as the bash will go until 3 a.m.! For more information, visit www.ladies2000.com.
Tracy Buchholz is an LGBTQ party producer-promoter in Philadelphia. She can be reached at [email protected].