Latest news with #Woody's
NDTV
23-05-2025
- Entertainment
- NDTV
From Drag Brunches To Queer Neighbourhoods: 6 Reasons Why LGBTQ+ Travellers Love Philadelphia
When people think of LGBTQ+ hotspots around the world, it's usually the big names that pop up-New York, San Francisco, Amsterdam, and Berlin. But ask someone who's been in the know, and they'll tell you: Philadelphia has quietly — and confidently — become one of the most welcoming, vibrant LGBTQ+ destinations worldwide. It's not just rainbow crosswalks (though yes, they have those, too). It's the way the city owns its queer history, supports its community, and serves up everything from queer-owned dive bars to history walks that'll genuinely surprise you. Here's why Philadelphia is the 'IT' LGBTQ+ destination this year. Here's Why Philadelphia Is A Must-Visit LGBTQ+ Destination: 1. The First City To Officially Recognise Gay Rights Let's start with the receipts. Philadelphia was the first American city to pass legislation that banned discrimination against people based on sexual orientation back in 1982. That wasn't a fluke — this city has been at the forefront of LGBTQ+ advocacy for decades. The first organised LGBTQ+ protests in the US actually happened outside Independence Hall in 1965, four years before Stonewall. Today, you'll find a plaque there commemorating the "Annual Reminders" protest, honouring the queer activists who helped change the course of American history. 2. The Gayborhood Isn't Just A Name, It's a Vibe Yes, it's actually called the "Gayborhood", and no, it's not a gimmick. Tucked between 11th and Broad Streets, and Pine and Walnut Streets, this area has been a haven for LGBTQ+ people since the 1970s. Look down and you'll see rainbow pride flags embedded in the street signs — Philly was the first city in the US to do that. Walk a few blocks and you'll hit staple queer bars like Woody's, a multilevel club that's been around since 1980, and Tabu, a queer sports bar that somehow manages to mix drag shows with football screenings and not miss a beat. 3. Queer Culture Is Woven Into The City's DNA Philly doesn't try to compartmentalise its LGBTQ+ culture. It's part of the city's pulse. There's Giovanni's Room, the oldest LGBTQ+ bookstore in the US (yes, it's still open), named after James Baldwin's 1956 novel. Or the William Way LGBT Community Center, which houses archives dating back to the early 20th century. Fancy something more interactive? The Philly AIDS Thrift store funds HIV services and also happens to be one of the best vintage shops in the city. 4. A Food Scene That Doesn't Quit (And Queer People Are Running It) From high-end restaurants to late-night food trucks, Philadelphia is having a moment with food, and LGBTQ+ chefs are right in the mix. Try Kalaya, a James Beard Award-winning Thai restaurant led by Chef Nok Suntaranon, or check out The Trestle Inn for whiskey sours and go-go dancers in a retro setting that feels more Berlin than Broad Street. And the drag brunch scene? Top tier. You've got places like Punch Line Philly and Fabrika where local queens put on Broadway-level performances while you sip mimosas and forget about tomorrow. 5. Pride Is Year-Round Yes, there's the annual Pride parade and OutFest (the nation's largest National Coming Out Day event), but the queer community doesn't go quiet in between. You'll find queer film festivals, LGBTQ+ art exhibitions at the Philadelphia Museum of Art, and even drag-hosted walking tours of Old City. Basically, no matter when you visit, something's happening. 6. A City That's Walkable, Affordable, And Real Here's the thing: Philly doesn't try too hard. It's got that scrappy, authentic energy you don't always get in polished, overpriced cities. You can actually walk from one queer venue to another. Public transport is easy. And you won't have to sell a kidney just to stay the night. Bottom line? Philadelphia isn't just a place where queer people live — it's a place where they thrive. Whether you're in town for a weekend or thinking about making a more permanent move, Philly's got room for you-and it's loud and proud about it.
CBS News
28-04-2025
- Entertainment
- CBS News
Giddy up Philly! Meet the DJ who is bringing country line dancing to Center City, Philadelphia
Queer line dancing is drawing hundreds every Friday night in Center City, Philadelphia Queer line dancing is drawing hundreds every Friday night in Center City, Philadelphia Queer line dancing is drawing hundreds every Friday night in Center City, Philadelphia If you stroll through Center City, Philadelphia, on a Friday night, you might hear country beats and a lot of cheering. That's because Giddy Up Philly is bringing the energy — and the cowboy boots — to the heart of the city. Every week, DJ Hugo Max lights up the dance floor at Voyeur Nightclub, where country line dancing draws hundreds from all walks of life. "I see people from all ages and backgrounds," Hugo said. "I'm still surprised every week at the turnout." At Giddy Up Philly, it's more than just dancing — it's about community, self-expression, and belonging. The night is packed with upbeat, choreographed dances, welcoming everyone to let loose and have fun. "I see people just being themselves," Hugo Max said. "It's a community just having fun together." Hugo Max and his friends first started dancing at smaller venues over 12 years ago — one of the first being the beloved LGBTQ bar Woody's. "In the beginning, it was mainly folks from the LGBTQ community," Hugo Max explained. "Now, we have everyone showing up." For many regulars, the dance floor has become a space to escape and recharge. "I've been doing this since 1995," Joe Mingari said. "When I'm dancing, I feel like I'm flying. I'm only happy when I'm dancing." For DJ Hugo Max, that's exactly the goal. "You leave your stress at the door," he said. "This is a happy place." And the movement isn't stopping anytime soon. Hugo Max hopes to offer line dancing workshops in the future, and he's planning a return to the popular rooftop at Bok Bar. "When I start DJing and see everyone having fun," Hugo Max said, "everything else fades away." Giddy Up Philly is currently waiving the cover charge, and even better, DJ Hugo Max and his crew offer free lessons before the real dancing begins. So grab your boots and get ready to hit the floor — Philly-style.
