The day before Valentine’s Day, members of the community can ice skate and enjoy drink specials and other specially priced menu items at “Skate Pride Love.”
DVLF, an LGBT grantmaking organization, and Philadelphia Gay News will sponsor the inaugural event, in partnership with the Center City District.
DJ Carl Michaels will spin tunes at the Feb. 13 event, while Philadelphia drag performer Brittany Lynn and the Philly Drag Mafia will provide live entertainment at Dilworth Park.
DVLF Executive Director Samantha Giusti said PGN approached DVLF to coordinate OurNightOut, DVLF’s monthly LGBT networking event, with “Skate Pride Love.” She said ice skating is different from usual OurNightOut events and noted attendees will find something to enjoy even if they’re not skaters.
“Folks who want an active activity, this is a great way to come out and do it with fellow community members and for folks who like our normal model of conversation and cocktails, they can still get that,” Giusti said.
Giusti said OurNightOut provides the opportunity to network with members of the LGBT community outside of typical settings.
“We all know and love the Gayborhood joints but it is also nice to meet outside of the Gayborhood,” Giusti said. “It is a nice opportunity to build a community.”
Additionally, she urged thosee who attended past OurNightOut events to see “the regular OurNightOut experience re-tooled a little bit.”
Giusti referenced President Donald Trump’s administration and how the political discourse impacts the LGBT community.
“In the beginning of this new administration — as we see some of the things that are rolling out that might be a struggle to folks in our community — the idea to come together, to be proud, to promote love, are all good things,” Giusti said. “We are so happy to be putting this event together.”
With the event occurring the day before Valentine’s Day, Giusti added, “it is nice to come together as a community and to spend time together.”
“You never know when Cupid’s arrow might strike,” she added.
“Skate Pride Love” will take place 6-10 p.m. Feb. 13 at the Rothman Ice Rink and Cabin at Dilworth Park, 1 S. 15th Street. A $20 ticket includes skate rentals and admission while a $10 ticket provides general admission. Portions of the proceeds will go toward DVLF.