Valentine’s Day is more than just couples and love. It’s also an excuse to have fun and socialize.
Men of All Colors Together-Philadelphia is hosting its annual Red Party Potluck, where members can wear red, bring a food dish and hang out.
“It’s a social gathering for people to just come together. I think that day, we need to connect with each other and communicate. It’s often a day for people who don’t see each other to chat, eat some food, have a drink and connect,” said Ken Haughton, host of the event.
MACT-Philadelphia is a gay, multiracial and multicultural organization advocating for diversity, equality and justice using social and educational efforts to support LGBTQ+ communities.
The annual party has been going on for about 20 years, according to MACT-Philadelphia chair Stevie Martin-Chester.
“Everybody goes,” he said. “It’s beautiful.”
This event is a tradition for organization members.
“Valentine’s Day has always been for couples and we decided we need to do something for all our members, not just couples,” said member Arthur Martin-Chester. “We just gather together and everybody wears red. We have a potluck and enjoy ourselves.”
The Red Party is just one of many annual events, including the organization’s Thanksgiving and Christmas dinners.
The goal of MACT is to engage in educational, cultural and political activities to discuss and overcome political prejudice and discrimination due to race, sexual orientation and gender.
The organization also strives to offer opportunities for multicultural and multiracial socialization in an atmosphere for friendships and relationships.
The party will be held 7:30-11 p.m. Feb. 10 For more information, email [email protected].
LOVE BITES
QSpot to host evening of love and chocolate
The QSpot LGBT Community Center will host a Valentine’s Day Chocolate Love Affair this weekend.
Donna Harrison, owner of Chocolate Sage in Asbury Park, N.J. will present a 90-minute workshop on the art of chocolate-making. This will include information on tempering, preparing and framing of chocolate creations. The gathering will include tastings and audience participation.
The event will be held 3-5 p.m. Feb. 11 at the QSpot LGBT Community Center, 66 Main St., Ocean Grove, N.J. Tickets cost $25, which includes tastings and a three-piece box of chocolates. RSVP by Feb. 11 to Lou at [email protected].
—Jeremy Rodriguez
Lesbian Cafe hosts Storytelling from the Heart event
The Lesbian Cafe will host a Storytelling from the Heart event just before Valentine’s Day.
LGBTQ+ women are welcome to attend the event 6-8 p.m. Feb. 13 at William Way LGBT Community Center, 1315 Spruce St.
Discussion will be held on novels, movies or real-life experiences. There will also be snacks, time to chat, music and games.
For more information, visit www.waygay.org.
—Brittany M. Wehner