Giving Thanks and Finding Support: A Thanksgiving Message from Pride Town Connect
As we gather this Thanksgiving season, we at Pride Town Connect want to express our deepest gratitude for the vibrant and resilient LGBTQ+ community we are proud to serve. This year, we’ve seen countless moments of courage, unity, and joy within our network of businesses and individuals who make up the backbone of our platform. To all who support Pride Town Connect, thank you for helping us create safe spaces where love and acceptance can thrive.
The holidays can be a time of warmth and togetherness, but they can also be difficult for some in our community. For those who may be feeling isolated or struggling this Thanksgiving, we want you to know that you are never alone. Below, we’ve highlighted some resources and events to connect with your LGBTQ+ family during the holiday season.
LGBTQ+ Resources for the Holiday Season
• The Trevor Project: Offering free, 24/7 support to LGBTQ+ youth through their hotline at 1-866-488-7386 or by texting “START” to 678-678.
• PFLAG: Local chapters nationwide host support groups for families and individuals. Visit pflag.org to find a chapter near you.
• Trans Lifeline: A peer-support hotline run by and for trans people. Call 877-565-8860 for support.
• LGBT National Help Center: Providing peer-support chat and hotlines for youth and adults. Visit lgbthotline.org.
Thanksgiving LGBTQ+ Events in Key Cities
New York City
• Big Gay Thanksgiving at The Center: A welcoming potluck and resource fair at the NYC LGBT Community Center on Thanksgiving Day. A great opportunity to connect with others and enjoy a festive meal.
• Broadway Cares/Equity Fights AIDS Holiday Celebration: An annual event featuring performances by Broadway stars, running through the holiday season.
Chicago
• Center on Halsted Thanksgiving Dinner: An inclusive meal open to all LGBTQ+ individuals and allies, hosted in the heart of Boystown.
• Queer Soup Night: A post-Thanksgiving gathering with warm soups, community, and fundraising for local LGBTQ+ initiatives.
Fort Lauderdale
• Stonewall Holiday Mixer: Join the Stonewall National Museum for a Thanksgiving-themed mixer and community celebration.
• Dragsgiving Brunch: A fun and fabulous drag brunch to kick off the holiday weekend in style.
Portland
• Thanksgiving Friendsgiving at Q Center: A community meal and social event for LGBTQ+ folks looking for connection and good food.
• Rainbow Market: Start your holiday shopping at this LGBTQ+ artisan market happening Thanksgiving weekend.
Philadelphia
• Thanksgiving Potluck at William Way Community Center: A free potluck dinner where LGBTQ+ individuals and allies can gather and share a meal.
• Tinsel Holiday Pop-Up Bar: A festive LGBTQ-friendly pop-up bar with holiday-themed cocktails and décor.
San Francisco
• Santa Skivvies Run: An annual holiday underwear fun run benefiting the San Francisco AIDS Foundation. Happening on December 8, 2024, at Lookout in the Castro. A fun way to get festive while supporting a good cause.
• Thanksgiving at the San Francisco Eagle: A Queer/Leather Happy Hour kicks off the weekend at this iconic venue.
• Castro Art Walk: Explore the creative heart of the Castro while enjoying local artwork and community vibes.
Seattle
• LGBTQ+ Community Thanksgiving Dinner: Hosted at the LGBTQ+ Center, this is an inclusive gathering with a hearty meal and supportive vibes for those who may not have family nearby.
• Capitol Hill Social Events: Many bars and cafes in the area offer special Thanksgiving gatherings, including Drag Bingo and trivia nights celebrating queer culture.
Los Angeles
• Thanksgiving Dinner at the Los Angeles LGBT Center: An annual tradition providing a welcoming meal and a space for connection.
• WeHo Events: West Hollywood’s bars and clubs host special Thanksgiving parties, including drag shows and holiday-themed performances.
Boston
• Thanksgiving at Club Café: A welcoming celebration with food, music, and camaraderie for the LGBTQ+ community.
• Boston Pride Thanksgiving Meet-Up: A casual, friendly gathering for LGBTQ+ individuals to connect and celebrate together at a local venue.
This Thanksgiving, let us take a moment to reflect on the progress we’ve made and the strength we draw from each other. Pride Town Connect exists because of you—the dreamers, the allies, and the advocates who believe in a world where everyone belongs.
If you’re feeling alone or need help this holiday season, please don’t hesitate to reach out to the resources listed above or join one of the incredible events happening in your city. Remember, we are a family—united by love and hope.
From all of us at Pride Town Connect, we wish you a warm, safe, and love-filled Thanksgiving.
With gratitude,
The Pride Town Connect Team
