NYC has always had a vibrant gay nightlife and entertainment scene. From fantastic clubs, pop-up parties, to upscale bars and dives, there is a little something for everyone in the LBGTQ+ community. And with Pride in full effect this month, there are even more parties and events happening all over the city to celebrate the queer community and lifestyle. Check out these 6 places and experience the best of Brooklyn’s queer culture.
The Rosemont, Williamsburg
If you’re after an eclectic spot with a killer dance party, then The Rosemont the place for you. With a backyard patio, funky décor, and a kickass playlist, not to mention reasonably priced drinks, this is one hidden gem worth coming to Williamsburg for. The clientele can be male-oriented at times, but the Rosemont is an inclusive space where all are welcome, with an unpretentious neighborhood bar vibe that’s a breath of fresh air in a club scene that can feel overwhelming.
3 Dollar Bill, East Williamsburg
This is a queer mecca that boasts being the largest queer venue in all of Brooklyn. With a large dance floor, outdoor space, performance area and food from Del Sur Cocina, 3 Dollar Bill is truly committed to the inclusion of all forms of queer identity and describes itself as being a “space for joy.”
Metropolitan Bar, Williamsburg
Metropolitan Bar is the queer bar of your dreams with a super friendly, laid-back and inclusive vibe. From the free BBQ on Sundays in its amazing outdoor garden space to the cheap drinks, this happening spot also hosts karaoke nights, drag shows, and queer comedy.
Ginger’s, Park Slope
If you’re after a quaint lesbian bar that has a neighborhood/Cheer’s atmosphere where everyone is welcome, then Ginger’s it is. This Park Slope institution has been open for nearly two decades and proudly serves all who walk through its doors. (Down the block, neighboring gay bar Excelsior, hasn’t fared as well, and is slated to close July 31.) With its wood paneling and warm feels, this is the kind of local joint where you can kick back with a pint, watch the big game, have a darts championship, play pool, or just chat with your neighbors. Be sure to show up for their popular drag bingo game, and in summer, hang out in their epic backyard.
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Mood Ring, Bushwick
With its crushed red velvet booths and astrology-themed cocktails, Mood Ring gets funky all the time, hosting queer dance parties like Crewless, “a party for the loner queers” that “celebrates coming to the dance floor alone.” It returns this Friday, June 7, but look out for similar monthlies like Onegaishimasu, centered around queer and gender non-conforming people of color.
House of Yes, Bushwick
This former ice warehouse has transformed itself into one of the hottest venues in the borough. With its sex-positive attitude, funky vibe, and willingness to take risks, this inclusive space has developed quite a following. There are a number of rotating performances, parties and events that take place monthly, but for Pride in particular, they have programmed a full spectrum of dance parties, burlesque, and drag competitions, ending with an epic Pride March afterparty on June 30. See the full line up here.
HOY is 90% basic b’s at this point. They let in my group of basic b friends with 1:00 tickets at 11:00 but wouldn’t let me (a gay). Real nice.