Pride 2019

Gizmo6
#1Pride 2019
Posted: 4/17/19 at 5:13pm

Hi All, 

I'm due to visit for Pride in June. I have lots of shows booked but I am just looking for advice regarding Pride and going out in the night. 

Pride is Sunday. There are lots of big parties on, nearly pricier than a Broadway show, but I am not a party type of guy. 

So I was wondering what's it like at Pride and is getting into a bar impossible? Is everything ticketed? 

In London, Paris and Dublin I've just turned up but I realise it's a big year and a big city/country so I would appreciate any advice you have. 

What happens after the Parade? I just see Pride Fest which is sold out already. 

Thanks in advance :)

Shows Booked:

Oklahoma 

Hugh Jackman

The Cher Show

Moulin Rouge

Tootsie 

Shows Not booked:

The Prom (Sunday of Pride) Probably too much of a clash with Pride. 

Gary/Hadestown/My Fair Lady on first evening depending on flight arrival. 

Thursday Matinee which is very limited choice. 

Updated On: 4/17/19 at 05:13 PM

Gizmo6
#2Pride 2019
Posted: 4/22/19 at 9:32am

So a bit of further research online shows that most events are Friday and Saturday and the parade is Sunday followed by the closing Party. 

Pride in European cities I've been to normally have the Parade on a Saturday followed by official parties on the Saturday night. 

So I think the best thing is pick somewhere to go on Saturday night. 

I definitely want to visit Stonewall Inn and Marie's Crisis. 

Anyone any other recommendations for bars?

Thanks 

ahhrealmonsters
#3Pride 2019
Posted: 4/22/19 at 12:39pm

This year is World Pride in NYC, and/because it's the 50th anniversary of the Stonewall riots, so NYC is going all-out. In general, gay bars are very packed Pride weekend. Some of them have an entry price, but they're all extremely crowded. There are smaller, niche events all week (and even month) leading up to Pride Sunday. I've never been to Marie's Crisis during Pride, but it's very crowded on a regular weekend night. Maybe try Monster, which is basically across the street from Marie's? It's slightly bigger (different layout) and has a piano.

For the past (I think) 3 years, Playbill has put out Pride playbills with rainbow on the front where it's normally yellow. Those are a great collector's item, and they're given out all June.

Gizmo6
#4Pride 2019
Posted: 4/22/19 at 2:15pm

ahhrealmonsters said: "This year is World Pride in NYC, and/because it's the 50th anniversary of the Stonewall riots, so NYC is going all-out. In general, gay bars are very packed Pride weekend. Some of them have an entry price, but they're all extremely crowded. There are smaller, niche events all week (and even month) leading up to Pride Sunday. I've never been to Marie's Crisis during Pride, but it's very crowded on a regular weekend night. Maybe try Monster, which is basically across the street from Marie's? It's slightly bigger (different layout) and has a piano.

For the past (I think) 3 years, Playbill has put out Pride playbills with rainbow on the front where it's normally yellow. Those are a great collector's item, and they're given out all June.
"

Hi ahhrealmonsters thanks for the advice. I am really looking forward to getting the Rainbow Playbills. 

I've been to NYC before but never been on the gay scene so will be the first time. 

Thanks for the Monsters tip, visited the website and I see Lady Bunny performs there occasionally and I would love to see her perform live. 

 

ArtMan
#5Pride 2019
Posted: 4/22/19 at 5:24pm

Gizmo6, I would go to the parade and not put much emphasis on the bar scene. Although I have never visited during Pride, I find the NYC gay bar scene to be rather tired, especially for such a big city.  I don't really do the bars anymore in my hometown, but will visit during a trip.  I just found the scene underwhelming.  Although when I have gone, the bars were never crowded, I could imagine the crowds in such small spaces.  That is why I am suggesting partying during and at the parade.  You will have your own space, with hopefully no one pushing/pulling on you. (Unless you want that) smiley There are 4 bars right in the general area.  Marie's Crisis, Stonewall, The Monster and Pieces (if it is still open).  I would suspect on this particular weekend they may allow drinking outside the bars.  (You will have to look into this)  There is no way I would set foot inside these bars due to the crowds.

Gizmo6
#6Pride 2019
Posted: 4/22/19 at 6:06pm

ArtMan said: "Gizmo6, I would go to the parade and not put much emphasis on the bar scene. Although I have never visited during Pride, I find the NYC gay bar scene to be rather tired, especially for such a big city. I don't really do the bars anymore in my hometown, but will visit during a trip. I just found the scene underwhelming. Although when I have gone, the bars were never crowded, I could imagine the crowds in such small spaces. That is why I am suggesting partying during and at the parade. You will have your own space, with hopefully no one pushing/pulling on you. (Unless you want that) smiley There are 4 bars right in the general area. Marie's Crisis, Stonewall, The Monster and Pieces (if it is still open). I would suspect on this particular weekend they may allow drinking outside the bars. (You will have to look into this) There is no way I would set foot inside these bars due to the crowds."

Thanks ArtMan, good advice, I definitely tend to go to more open spaces for Pride like Old Compton St in Soho UK or Rue Des Lombards/Marais in Paris, or the Capel Street/Pantibar or Mother in Dublin. 

I have been to the Macy's Parade so am expecting something similar??? 

The NYC scene seems very spread out so it might be a pre-pride visit to Stonewall/Marie's Crisis. 

I have to take in a rooftop bar for a drink at some stage for the view. 

ArtMan
#7Pride 2019
Posted: 4/22/19 at 6:30pm

Gizmo6, Boxers in Hell's Kitchen at 9th Avenue has a rooftop bar.  (At least verify before you go).  It is only a 10 minute or so walk from the theatre district.  They have an okay 2 for 1 happy hour.

ArtMan
#8Pride 2019
Posted: 4/22/19 at 6:30pm

double

Updated On: 4/22/19 at 06:30 PM

Gizmo6
#9Pride 2019
Posted: 4/22/19 at 6:36pm

ArtMan said: "Gizmo6, Boxers in Hell's Kitchen at 9th Avenue has a rooftop bar. (At least verify before you go). It is only a 10 minute or so walk from the theatre district. They have an okay 2 for 1 happy hour."

Oh cool thanks ArtMan will look it up. 

ArtMan
#10Pride 2019
Posted: 4/22/19 at 6:41pm

Also The Eagle (leather/jeans) has a nice rooftop bar.  Again, verify before you go.  It's been a couple of years, since I've been.  You never know if they made changes.

Updated On: 4/22/19 at 06:41 PM

AEA AGMA SM
#11Pride 2019
Posted: 4/22/19 at 9:13pm

If your goal with the rooftop bar is to get a great view most of the gay bars are not going to accomplish that (Boxers rooftop is on the second or third floor, and the Eagle is buried in between a couple of high rises, so your view is of the apartments across the street). 

For rooftop bars with views you'll want to look at some of the hotel bars. The Standard has a pretty good one with views of the High Line, Hudson River, One World Trade Center, and Hudson Yards.

Gizmo6
#12Pride 2019
Posted: 4/23/19 at 6:35am

ArtMan said: "Also The Eagle (leather/jeans) has a nice rooftop bar. Again, verify before you go. It's been a couple of years, since I've been. You never know if they made changes."

Thanks ArtMan, The Eagle is on my list It seems local, have to check the dress code cause I'm not one for butch drag. 

Gizmo6
#13Pride 2019
Posted: 4/23/19 at 6:38am

AEA AGMA SM said: "If your goal with the rooftop bar is to get a great view most of the gay bars are not going to accomplish that (Boxers rooftop is on the second or third floor, and the Eagle is buried in between a couple of high rises, so your view is of the apartments across the street).

For rooftop bars with views you'll want to look at some of the hotel bars. The Standard has a pretty good one with views of the High Line, Hudson River, One World Trade Center, and Hudson Yards.
"

Thanks AEA AGMA SM I am probably going to book the Furball event ti have somewhere to go on a Saturday night which is at the Hudson Terrace which seems to have lovely views. 

Miles2Go2 Profile Photo
Miles2Go2
#14Pride 2019
Posted: 4/23/19 at 7:20pm

I just happened to plan my trip during Pride last year. I never got to see the parade though I did walk along part of the route because I had a matinee (The Ucemsn Cometh) that day. I don’t have many recommendations about bars since the older I get the more I hate bars. I’ve been to The Stonewall Inn before and it’s good just to go because of the history of the place.

A note about the heat in NYC in June. It’s uncomfortably HOT especially if you’re walking or even standing in the sun. I would highly encourage you to pack baby wipes and deodorant into your day bag to freshen up throughout the day and wear light colors. Maybe also an umbrella to block out the sun. Enjoy!

Gizmo6
#15Pride 2019
Posted: 4/24/19 at 5:42am

Miles2Go2 said: "I just happened to plan my trip during Pride last year. I never got to see the parade though I did walk along part of the route because I had a matinee (The Ucemsn Cometh) that day. I don’t have many recommendations about bars since the older I get the more I hate bars. I’ve been to The Stonewall Inn before and it’s good just to go because of the history of the place.

A note about the heat in NYC in June. It’s uncomfortably HOT especially if you’re walking or even standing in the sun. I would highly encourage you to pack baby wipes and deodorant into your day bag to freshen up throughout the day and wear light colors. Maybe also an umbrella to block out the sun. Enjoy!
"

 

Hi Miles2Go2 great advice. I am tempted to see The Prom on the Sunday but also would like to see the March and I notice now The Prom will be performing at the closing ceremony. Wow I never even thought about the heat I've only ever visited in November. That's something I'll have to prepare for. I'm not one for the heat. Thanks a million for the heads up. 

 

getupngo Profile Photo
getupngo
#16Pride 2019
Posted: 4/24/19 at 9:24pm

its gonna be a SHlTshow this year. world pride is in NYC this year too. sloppy queens everywhere. -.-

my advice? stay away from the pride stuff.

SmoothLover Profile Photo
SmoothLover
#17Pride 2019
Posted: 4/25/19 at 2:29am

I say book at ticket to Puerto Rico and spend it with the locals. The economy could use the money and the sense of community is different than one experiences in a large city.

DAME Profile Photo
DAME
#18Pride 2019
Posted: 4/25/19 at 3:07pm

Gizmo,

Skip the bars.  Really.. you will be in NYC during pride.  Bars look the same everywhere.  And it is going to be a big cluster f**k.  The parade itself should be such a thrill.  And if you will be attending shows during those days then visit some midtown bars like Saloon.. but even that will be busy.  After the parade stroll thru the streets.  It will be so much fun.  Last year after pride we slowly walked our way all the way to little Italy for some great food.  All the outdoor seating areas were full of  friendly gay men.  It was like a extension of the festivities.. but with a lot of food. 


HUSSY POWER! ------ HUSSY POWER!

getupngo Profile Photo
getupngo
#19Pride 2019
Posted: 4/25/19 at 4:43pm

SmoothLover said: "I say book at ticket to Puerto Rico and spend it with the locals. The economy could use the money and the sense of community is different than one experiences in a large city."

^this 100%

Gizmo6
#20Pride 2019
Posted: 4/26/19 at 5:45am

Thanks for your contributions Getupngo, Dame and Smooth Lover. 

However the anniversary of the Stonewall Riots means something to me, I am drawn to NYC to be there for the 50th commemoration and planned my shows around it. Although it happened near 20 years before I was born I feel it important in my life. 

I am completely booked out with shows on my trip, I only have one maybe two free slots. 

I was just hoping for advise on somewhere go after the Pride Parade as the information online doesn't seem clear to me and I'll be at the Parade and will have this one night free. 

 

 

Gizmo6
#21Pride 2019
Posted: 4/26/19 at 7:25pm

Hey all so I've just noticed New York City Opera is doing a 5 date production of Stonewall to commemorate the riots. Sadly I've booked for the Thursday and Friday but I could consider moving Oklahoma. 

Has anyone experience of the work or the composers? I did want to see Bell's The Women of Whitechapel.

It's 5 dates at the Rose Theatre at the Lincoln Centre. 

https://nycopera.com/stonewall/

Thanks in advance

Updated On: 4/26/19 at 07:25 PM

Gizmo6
#22Pride 2019
Posted: 5/2/19 at 3:10pm

Hey again. 

Just trying to schedule as many shows as possible and was curious as to why Broadway shows mostly do matinees on Wednesdays? 

The West End seems to have a mix between Wednesday and Thursdays. 

 

AEA AGMA SM
#23Pride 2019
Posted: 5/2/19 at 4:05pm

Gizmo6 said: "Hey again.

Just trying to schedule as many shows as possible and was curious as to why Broadway shows mostly do matinees on Wednesdays?

The West End seems to have a mix between Wednesday and Thursdays.
"

That I can tell you in one word: TRADITION!

broadwayguy2
#24Pride 2019
Posted: 5/6/19 at 3:43am

Hey!

Just wanting to chime with a few things as someone who spends quite a bit of their time in gay bars. Ha!

As far as show schedules go, yes, it boils down to tradition, really. Some shows get away from that, but most stick to a very standard and expected performance schedule.

As far as Pride itself goes, here a few things:

- In Manhattan, it is NOT a Parade. Organizers are VERY firm in this. It is a MARCH. The Manhattan event began as a protest march and though basically everything had changed, they honor it by always referring to it as the Pride March. Queens, Brooklyn, etc, and every other city has a 'parade'.

- It is always an absolute zoo, but with World Pride and the 50th anniversary, truth be told, I am not sure that any of us know what to expect other than a madhouse.

- PLEASE, absolutely go check out Stonewall, but not on Pride Sunday. You will never make it. Go down visit the Stonewall and Sheridan Square beforehand. 

- On Pride Sunday, pretty much every Christopher Street bar has a cover and you won't be able to move much along the street because it is blocked off for the March and it fills to the brim early and stays that way all day.

- In Hells Kitchen, you have nearly 2 dozen gay bars to choose from and some are great for everyone and others are a little more niche, so it depends what you want. That said, avoid Boxers. It is trash.

- Do not be afraid to venture out of the theatre district and West Village. There are some FANTASTIC bars in the East Village, Brooklyn, and Astoria (and of you love some Latinx, Jackson Heights) that will be very busy and a lot of fun and accessible via car or train and will probably be a lot more fun than Hells Kitchen.

- ABOVE ALL, celebrate Pride however YOU want to. Don't listen to someone telling you "THIS is how you do Pride in NYC". You want to go to the bars? Go right ahead? Spend 10 hours at the March? By all means. Hit brunch, and the street fair, and some of the March, and a bar, and a show? Live you best life, baby! That is what it is all there for. Just remember that this city is where this tradition began and remember what it really means and take a moment to honor that and pay your respects in a way that is meaningful to you.

Happy Pride and I hope you enjoy it here.

Gizmo6
#25Pride 2019
Posted: 5/7/19 at 3:33pm

broadwayguy2 said: "Hey!

Just wanting to chime with a few things as someone who spends quite a bit of their time in gay bars. Ha!

As far as show schedules go, yes, it boils down to tradition, really. Some shows get away from that, but most stick to a very standard and expected performance schedule.

As far as Pride itself goes, here a few things:

- In Manhattan, it is NOT a Parade. Organizers are VERY firm in this. It is a MARCH. The Manhattan event began as a protest march and though basically everything had changed, they honor it by always referring to it as the Pride March. Queens, Brooklyn, etc, and every other city has a 'parade'.

- It is always an absolute zoo, but with World Pride and the 50th anniversary, truth be told, I am not sure that any of us know what to expect other than a madhouse.

- PLEASE, absolutely go check out Stonewall, but not on Pride Sunday. You will never make it. Go down visit the Stonewall and Sheridan Square beforehand.

- On Pride Sunday, pretty much every Christopher Street bar has a cover and you won't be able to move much along the street because it is blocked off for the March and it fills to the brim early and stays that way all day.

- In Hells Kitchen, you have nearly 2 dozen gay bars to choose from and some are great for everyone and others are a little more niche, so it depends what you want. That said, avoid Boxers. It is trash.

- Do not be afraid to venture out of the theatre district and West Village. There are some FANTASTIC bars in the East Village, Brooklyn, and Astoria (and of you love some Latinx, Jackson Heights) that will be very busy and a lot of fun and accessible via car or train and will probably be a lot more fun than Hells Kitchen.

- ABOVE ALL,celebrate Pride however YOU want to. Don't listen to someone telling you "THIS is how you do Pride in NYC". You want to go to the bars? Go right ahead? Spend 10 hours at the March? By all means. Hit brunch, and the street fair, and some of the March, and a bar, and a show? Live you best life, baby! That is what it is all there for. Just remember that this city is where this tradition began and remember what it really means and take a moment to honor that and pay your respects in a way that is meaningful to you.

Happy Pride and I hope you enjoy it here.
"

 

Thank you broadwayguy2 for a lovely post. 

I'm from a rural town at the opposite side of the world and I am visiting to commemorate Stonewall. I want to remember and honour what I consider my ancestors. 

My plan is to visit the Stonewall Inn for the commemoration event on the Friday I think, to give thanks to those who paved the way for the freedoms I have. 

I also have a lot of shows booked and I think I will watch the start of the march and I might catch a 3pm matinee and find a bar for a drink later in the evening.