The holidays are over: Thank God we all survived! Now it’s time to use those new gift cards you got for Christmas to find a new outfit, gather up your friends and head out to some of these great events. January events are always packed, as boredom and winter blues threaten to take over. If you’re single, this can be an especially great time to make some new friends.
First up, I’m definitely stoked for the Beyoncé, Britney and Gaga dance party Jan. 8 at Sisters Nightclub, 1320 Chancellor St. What greater way to spend your night than listening to three of today’s hottest female — not to mention sexy — performers? DJ Deejay brings the party from 9 p.m.-2 a.m. with a $5 cover.
One of my new favorite Web sites is Meetup.com. This site is great for non-bar-related activities, and as you might still be recovering from New Year’s Eve, I found a few events that are in the city, sound like a blast and provide great opportunities to meet new people.On Jan. 9, join members of Philadelphia Professional Lesbians as they gather for a night of laughter at Helium Comedy Club, 2031 Sansom St. This is a group primarily geared toward women in their 20s and 30s, and the comics for the night are Matt Braunger and Kurt Metzger. The show starts at 7 p.m.; more information can be found at www.meetup.com/Philadelphia-Professional-Lesbian-20-s-and-30-s/ or purchase tickets at www.heliumcomedy.com.
Next, check out the women’s monthly mixer, Unwind, Jan. 12 at Q Lounge, 1234 Locust St., a favorite for those looking to relax and mingle in the comfort of a sleek and sexy lounge. This is also a great night for anyone seeking midweek drink specials, a lesbian theme on the various television screens plus The Baraness spinning. And there’s no cover for this mixer. Join the mailing list by e-mailing [email protected].
If you’re looking for a night out of the city, head to the Nevermore, 6426 Lower York Road, New Hope, on Jan. 14. Acclaimed singer-songwriters Christine Havrilla and Christine Martucci lend their talents to a night celebrating the “Embraceable You” project. The documentary focuses on New Hope and its dedication to embracing diversity. The screening and concert take place at 7:30 p.m. and cost $20 for both. For more information on the documentary or show, visit www.harlanscabaret.com.
On Jan. 15, Meetup group GLBT Singles is taking over the Philadelphia Art Museum, 26th Street and the Parkway, for its Art After 5 event. Cost of admission is $14, but Friday nights offer something really special! At 5 p.m., the museum transforms into a great social-gathering venue, offering both live music and a cash bar. Rest assured, if there’s a Meetup group being hosted here, there will be tons of queers to mingle with. That night, famed Cuban pianist Manuel Valera will entertain visitors from 6-8 p.m. For more information, visit www.meetup.com/philadelphiaLGBT singles.
This last event isn’t for a few weeks, but mark your calendars now: You don’t want to miss it! The Scene one-year anniversary party is coming up Jan. 23 at its new home, Voyeur, 1221 St. James St. Think new year, new party. With DJ Carl Michaels on the main floor and Lil Sis spinning hip-hop upstairs, it’s guaranteed you’ll be dancing the night away. This is a hot venue with plenty of dance and lounge space right in the heart of Philly’s Gayborhood. There will be giveaways to celebrate the anniversary plus more surprises to say thank you. Doors open at 9 p.m., with $3 drinks from 9-11 and a $5 cover until midnight. There’s karaoke downstairs for all you “American Idol” wannabes and hot female bartender eye candy all night long. For more information, visit www.facebook.com/tlbtpproductions.
Tracy Buchholz is an LGBTQ party producer-promoter in Philadelphia. She can be reached at [email protected].