EVENTS

Joyful Resistance Party
Jan
20

Joyful Resistance Party

Please join the GT Dems and Betsy Coffia on InUGHuration Day for a community gathering and Joyful Resistance Party! Together, let's send a message to Donald Trump and the MAGA Movement that our resistance has the antidote for their darkness: joy.

Potluck 🥘 What better way is there to be with our neighbors than over delicious food? Sign up to bring a dish to pass if you are able or come as you are and enjoy what others bring. A variety of flavored seltzer water, sodas, and limited alcoholic beverages will be available at no charge.

Community Art Project 🎨Facilitated by Heather Spooner of Ampersand Lettering Lab, guests will have the opportunity to participate in a community art project that will be a reflection of our shared values and how we are all connected as we continue the work of promoting and sustaining those values.

Music 🎵 Nothing like a good song– that makes you want to dance– to help shake us into action! We will be playing music all night, and yes, there will be a dance floor. Be sure to request your favorite jams to add to our joyful resistance playlist when you RSVP.

Bonfire 🔥Weather permitting, we will be having a bonfire with all of the makings for s’mores provided! If you play the guitar, please feel free to bring it for some campfire songs!

Camaraderie🫂Have feelings about the inauguration and don’t want to be alone? Come be in community with others who are feeling the same and engage in small acts of joyful resistance that will prepare us for the years to come. We know that building strong supportive resilient communities that stand up for each others’ rights and dignity will be the brightest light for the path ahead.

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Queer Tales Book Club
Jan
21

Queer Tales Book Club

Join us for Queer Tales Book Club where we chat about books that are by and/or about LGBTQIA+ people. Reading is not required, and everyone is welcome.

We hang out on the third Tuesday of the month at 7pm in the Nelson Room.

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Know Your Rights: An LGBTQ Info Night with ACLU
Jan
22

Know Your Rights: An LGBTQ Info Night with ACLU

Up North Pride and ACLU of Michigan present a night for you to ask your legal questions to help have a better understanding of the rights LGBTQ+ community has.

January 22nd, 6pm, in the McGuire Community Room at the Traverse Area District Library

To help prepare for the event, you may send questions for the Q&A to info@upnorthpride.com

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Free Movie! "4th Man Out"
Jan
23

Free Movie! "4th Man Out"

The Benzie Area Pride Network is sponsoring a free showing of the 2015 indie film 4th Man Out. “A car mechanic in a small, working class town comes out of the closet to his unsuspecting, blue-collar best friends.”

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Open Art Night
Feb
11

Open Art Night

Join us for Open Art Night, where creativity has no limits! Whether you’re a seasoned artist, a budding painter, or just curious about trying something new, this evening is all about exploring and expressing yourself in a supportive, fun, and relaxed atmosphere.

Bring your paints, sketchpads, or any craft you’ve been meaning to try – or just come as you are! Connect with friends, make new ones, and let your imagination run free in our creative community space. All skill levels are welcome, so dive in, get inspired, and let’s create together!

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Elev8 Climbing Meetup: Queer Night
Feb
14

Elev8 Climbing Meetup: Queer Night

A climbing meetup for our LGBTQIA+ community.

Details:

  • Friday 6pm-8pm

  • $15 in advance / $20 day of event

  • Rentals are included!

  • Free for members

  • The meetup kicks off with some light instruction and challenges/goals, and is followed by a couple hours of climbing, socializing and having fun while building relationships and expanding your comfort zone!

**Purchase our "Climb Together" shirt to wear at these meetups. Wear the shirt to Rare Bird after climbing to receive 15% off your tab!

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BAPN Queer Book Club
Feb
16

BAPN Queer Book Club

Join Benzie Area Pride Network for a discussion of the book "Confessions of the Fox" by Jordy Rosenberg. You do NOT need to have read the book to attend. You are welcome to just join us for snacks and drinks!

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PFLAG TC: Leading With Love
Feb
18

PFLAG TC: Leading With Love

PFLAG Traverse City presents Stories of LGBTQI2S+: A Primer on Affirmative Language and Systems

Join our diverse panel for a discussion on:

  • Creating a more caring world for LGBTQI2S people

  • Understanding basic affirmative language and systems and why they are so important

  • How affirmative language and systems have been applied in local organizations

  • The social and psychological effects using affirmative language has on the community

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Queer Tales Book Club
Feb
18

Queer Tales Book Club

Join us for Queer Tales Book Club where we chat about books that are by and/or about LGBTQIA+ people. Reading is not required, and everyone is welcome.

We hang out on the third Tuesday of the month at 7pm in the Nelson Room.

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Game Night
Feb
21

Game Night

Join us for a game night at Secondhand Social Club on February 21st from 6pm-8pm. All ages welcome. We will have games and attendees can bring their own!

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Open Art Night
Mar
11

Open Art Night

Join us for Open Art Night, where creativity has no limits! Whether you’re a seasoned artist, a budding painter, or just curious about trying something new, this evening is all about exploring and expressing yourself in a supportive, fun, and relaxed atmosphere.

Bring your paints, sketchpads, or any craft you’ve been meaning to try – or just come as you are! Connect with friends, make new ones, and let your imagination run free in our creative community space. All skill levels are welcome, so dive in, get inspired, and let’s create together!

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Elev8 Climbing Meetup: Queer Night
Mar
14

Elev8 Climbing Meetup: Queer Night

A climbing meetup for our LGBTQIA+ community.

Details:

  • Friday 6pm-8pm

  • $15 in advance / $20 day of event

  • Rentals are included!

  • Free for members

  • The meetup kicks off with some light instruction and challenges/goals, and is followed by a couple hours of climbing, socializing and having fun while building relationships and expanding your comfort zone!

**Purchase our "Climb Together" shirt to wear at these meetups. Wear the shirt to Rare Bird after climbing to receive 15% off your tab!

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Queer Tales Book Club
Mar
18

Queer Tales Book Club

Join us for Queer Tales Book Club where we chat about books that are by and/or about LGBTQIA+ people. Reading is not required, and everyone is welcome.

We hang out on the third Tuesday of the month at 7pm in the Nelson Room.

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Open Art Night
Apr
8

Open Art Night

Join us for Open Art Night, where creativity has no limits! Whether you’re a seasoned artist, a budding painter, or just curious about trying something new, this evening is all about exploring and expressing yourself in a supportive, fun, and relaxed atmosphere.

Bring your paints, sketchpads, or any craft you’ve been meaning to try – or just come as you are! Connect with friends, make new ones, and let your imagination run free in our creative community space. All skill levels are welcome, so dive in, get inspired, and let’s create together!

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Elev8 Climbing Meetup: Queer Night
Apr
11

Elev8 Climbing Meetup: Queer Night

A climbing meetup for our LGBTQIA+ community.

Details:

  • Friday 6pm-8pm

  • $15 in advance / $20 day of event

  • Rentals are included!

  • Free for members

  • The meetup kicks off with some light instruction and challenges/goals, and is followed by a couple hours of climbing, socializing and having fun while building relationships and expanding your comfort zone!

**Purchase our "Climb Together" shirt to wear at these meetups. Wear the shirt to Rare Bird after climbing to receive 15% off your tab!

View Event →
Elev8 Climbing Meetup: Queer Night
May
9

Elev8 Climbing Meetup: Queer Night

A climbing meetup for our LGBTQIA+ community.

Details:

  • Friday 6pm-8pm

  • $15 in advance / $20 day of event

  • Rentals are included!

  • Free for members

  • The meetup kicks off with some light instruction and challenges/goals, and is followed by a couple hours of climbing, socializing and having fun while building relationships and expanding your comfort zone!

**Purchase our "Climb Together" shirt to wear at these meetups. Wear the shirt to Rare Bird after climbing to receive 15% off your tab!

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Pride Ride!
Jun
17

Pride Ride!

Join us at F&M Park in your bike gear and pride gear for a spirited ride through downtown led by Norte!

The ride will begin at 6 pm so please join us at the park before 6 to rally up! Free admission, all ages are welcome.

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Rainbow Run
Jun
21

Rainbow Run

We are thrilled to announce our third annual collaboration between Up North Pride and TART Trails for the Rainbow Run on June 21, 2025. This fun color run will take place around the Boardman Loop and promises to be a meaningful and impactful event that celebrates diversity, inclusion, and the beautiful northern Michigan community.

This event is much more than just a run or walk. It is a celebration of love, acceptance, and belonging, and an opportunity for the 2SLGBTQ+ community and their allies to come together and show their pride. It is a chance to raise awareness and support for the 2SLGBTQ+ community and to promote equality and inclusion in northern Michigan.

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Game Night
Jan
17

Game Night

Join us for a game night at Secondhand Social Club on January 17th from 6pm-8pm. All ages welcome. We will have games and attendees can bring their own!

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Open Art Night
Jan
14

Open Art Night

Join us for Open Art Night, where creativity has no limits! Whether you’re a seasoned artist, a budding painter, or just curious about trying something new, this evening is all about exploring and expressing yourself in a supportive, fun, and relaxed atmosphere.

Bring your paints, sketchpads, or any craft you’ve been meaning to try – or just come as you are! Connect with friends, make new ones, and let your imagination run free in our creative community space. All skill levels are welcome, so dive in, get inspired, and let’s create together!

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Queer Climbing Meetup
Jan
10

Queer Climbing Meetup

Climbing is social! Let’s make it a group hang!

Join us the 2nd Friday of the month for our Queer Meetup, climbing night for the LGBTQIA+ Comunity! These are open to any level of climber, and are designed to promote community and grow a passion for the sport of climbing.

Details:

  • 2nd Fridays of each month, 6pm-8pm

  • $15 in advance includes rentals (members are free!) $20 at the door.

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Dec
22

Stillness & Strength Therapeutics

Join Stillness & Strength Therapeutics LLC, Dec 22nd in Maple City as we support Up North Pride! 100% of class cost ($20) plus any additional monetary donations go directly to support Up North Pride’s mission: To foster inclusive spaces by providing education and resources, inspiring activism and advocacy, and producing community-focused 2SLGBTQIA+ programs and events

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Queer Tales Book Club
Dec
17

Queer Tales Book Club

Join us for Queer Tales Book Club where we chat about books that are by and/or about LGBTQIA+ people. Reading is not required, and everyone is welcome.

We hang out on the third Tuesday of the month at 7pm in the Nelson Room.

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Madonnativity
Dec
15

Madonnativity

Mash Up Rock & Roll Musical’s holiday show Madonnativity will benefit Up North Pride in this one Pay What You Can performance.

The show will be the closing performance on Dec 15th at 6:30pm.

Description of the show: A traveling troupe of actors aims to put on an inclusive holiday show featuring the music of Madonna. Unfortunately, everything seems to be going wrong: from missing sets to failed relationships, it's going to take a miracle for the show to go on. It's a fun comedy exploring the importance of community and connection even in the darkest times.

The show is appropriate for all ages, and it's a minimum of $5 for the show (though we encourage folks to pay more if they can!)

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Queer Climbing Meetup
Dec
13

Queer Climbing Meetup

Climbing is social! Let’s make it a group hang!

Join us the 2nd Friday of the month for our Queer Meetup, climbing night for the LGBTQIA+ Comunity! These are open to any level of climber, and are designed to promote community and grow a passion for the sport of climbing.

Details:

  • 2nd Fridays of each month, 6pm-8pm

  • $15 in advance includes rentals (members are free!) $20 at the door.

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Open Art Night
Dec
10

Open Art Night

Join us for Open Art Night, where creativity has no limits! Whether you’re a seasoned artist, a budding painter, or just curious about trying something new, this evening is all about exploring and expressing yourself in a supportive, fun, and relaxed atmosphere.

Bring your paints, sketchpads, or any craft you’ve been meaning to try – or just come as you are! Connect with friends, make new ones, and let your imagination run free in our creative community space. All skill levels are welcome, so dive in, get inspired, and let’s create together!

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Let's Meet Up!
Dec
7

Let's Meet Up!

Let’s Meet Up is a new, informal, and unstructured gathering. We will meet at Rotary Square at 10am to simply mingle and chat with each other for about an hour. This month’s Meet Up will be a chilly one, bundle up and bring a friend or come alone.

There will be coffee provided.

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Game Night
Dec
6

Game Night

Join us for a game night at Secondhand Social Club on December 6th from 6pm-8pm. All ages welcome. We will have games and attendees can bring their own! More details coming soon…

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Dec
1

World AIDS Day - Free "Wicked" screening

Join us on Sunday, December 1st, at 2 PM for a free screening of the musical fantasy film Wicked (PG) at the AMC Cherry Blossom 14 Theatre.

This special event, hosted by Munson’s Thomas Judd Care Center, commemorates World AIDS Day. Enjoy free concessions and a brief discussion with the Thomas Judd Team on the importance of HIV testing and prevention. No RSVP needed – just come early to grab your seat!

The Thomas Judd Care Center has been providing essential care and support to those living with HIV/AIDS in Northern Michigan since 1994.

Don’t miss this chance to learn, enjoy, and support a great cause!

Questions can be sent to hlovy2@mhc.net.

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Nov
20

Trans Day Of Remembrance

Join us November 20th for our Trans Day of Remembrance Luminary Walk to honor the trans lives lost to violence this year. 

The Luminary Walk will start at Farm Club and follow the TART trail to the Fouch Road Trailhead beginning at 5:30pm. If you would like to add a name to the memorial walk, extra luminary bags will be available at the Farm Club starting point of the trail.

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Nov
9

Shop Your Community Day

We need YOU to shop downtown Traverse City on Saturday, November 9th and select "Up North Pride" at checkout to have 15% of your purchase go back to UNP! Get a group together, get some holiday shopping done, or treat yourself and give back to us at the same time! Shopping local also supports small businesses and keeps your dollars here. It's a win for everyone.

Bonus points for stopping at our merch home, My Secret Stash where UNP merch items give ALL proceeds back to UNP.

Find the participating businesses here: downtowntc.com/shop-your-community-day/

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Northport Tea Dance 2024
Sep
29

Northport Tea Dance 2024

Northport Pride’s 2024 Tea Dance, September 29, 2024 2pm to 6pm at Faro hosted by The Chetcuti Evans Foundation with special guest Monique Madison and The Kunty Kittens and music by DJ Jay Harnish.

The annual Northport Tea Dance is an important event for our region and creates awareness and visibility for the LGBTQ members of our community.

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Big Gay Brunch
Sep
29

Big Gay Brunch

BIG GAY BRUNCH

We’re ending Pride Week right with a delectable Big Gay Brunch and Picnic. The Brunch is free admission with local food and beverages available to purchase on-site with opportunities to interact with local nonprofit booths. The event will feature family-friendly activities and live music stylings by local performers.

Free admission, all ages welcome.
Food and drinks available for purchase.


THIS EVENT IS SPONSORED BY:

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Drag Night & Silent Disco
Sep
28

Drag Night & Silent Disco

Drag Night & Silent Disco

Join us at the Open Space, immediately following the Visibility March, for a drag-tastic event! Come and support our national, regional, and local death-dropping drag artists.

  • Nina West

  • Mrs. Kasha Davis

  • Dymond Denae

  • Aaliyah Tealhart

  • Deija Vaton

  • Felixxx

  • Mercedez Benz Over

  • Dee Riley

Refreshments and food will be available for purchase on-site. Come dressed in Pride gear, drag, or any gender expression you’re vibing with that night.

The party continues with the iconic Silent Disco under the stars. All attendees will be given headphones specially designed to keep the party going after hours. Our friends at 2BaysaProductions will be hosting the tunes. 

Join us for a beautiful evening of fun and entertainment along Grand Traverse Bay. Refreshments and food will be available for purchase throughout the event.

Free admission. Parental guidance is advised.


DRAG NIGHT IS SPONSORED BY:

SILENT DISCO IS SPONSORED BY:

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Visibility Rally & March
Sep
28

Visibility Rally & March

Visibility Rally & March

Join us for the largest participant-driven 2SLGBTQIA+ Pride March in Michigan beginning at F&M Park and proudly walking through downtown to The Open Space. The rally starts at 4 pm with keynote speakers and our Grand Marshall! The march will follow the kickoff speeches and is free and open to everyone.

Please arrive at 3:45 pm to assemble our forces!

Note:
The march ends at Open Space. If you're planning on staying for Drag Night and the Silent Disco, you may want to plan for transportation close to the bay.

• Wear your pride! This is the time to celebrate our individuality. Marchers often bring flags and signs.

• Food and drinks will be available at the the end of the march in the Open Space.

Free admission, all ages are welcome.

THIS EVENT IS SPONSORED BY:


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Comedy Night
Sep
27

Comedy Night

Up North Pride's
Fourth Annual Comedy Night

Join us for Up North Pride's fourth annual Comedy Night! This year's event promises an evening filled with laughter and entertainment, featuring an incredible lineup of comedians who will leave you in stitches. Featuring Comedy Night’s event host Kristin Key, Roz Hernandez, and Diana Graham. Don't miss out on this fantastic night of comedy!

Doors open at 7:00 pm, and the show kicks off at 8:00 pm.
Tickets are $20 for general admission.

The show is open for all ages, but please note that parental discretion is advised due to adult humor.

Performers

Kristin Key (host)
Kristin Key grew up in Amarillo, Texas, as a minister’s daughter. She first discovered her love for comedy at 19 while in college to become a paramedic, performing at a local open mic. Despite initial fears about coming out, Kristin eventually embraced her identity and has become a nationally headlining comedian known for her quick wit, original comedy songs, and viral social media presence. A finalist on NBC's Last Comic Standing, she now lives in LA, hosts the podcast "Kristin Knows Blank," and has recorded six stand-up comedy albums. Kristin's work often explores queer culture, relationships, and her personal journey, inspiring many with her humor and authenticity.

Roz Hernandez
Roz Hernandez is a transgender comedian, actor, and host who stars in Hulu's "Living for the Dead." Known for her energetic and stylish performances, Roz has hosted a popular show at Hollywood Improv and performed at notable venues like Largo and Dynasty Typewriter. Her podcast "GHOSTED!" delves into supernatural experiences and has been recognized by Vulture magazine as one of the best comedy podcasts of 2022. Roz's charm and wit have made her a favorite on various top podcasts and Bravo's "Watch What Happens Live." She resides in Los Angeles, where she enjoys collecting antiques and customizing her wardrobe.

Diana Graham
Diana Graham, a genderqueer comedian from Livonia, Michigan, is known as the “little sister of Detroit comedy.” With over 205,000 TikTok followers, Diana combines their day job as an industrial engineer with a growing comedy career. They often perform in Southeast Michigan and have been featured at events like the "Queens for a Cause" fundraiser. Diana's comedy, which began at 17, blends personal experiences with humor, addressing gender identity and life’s challenges with a thoughtful, engaging approach. Relocated temporarily to Nebraska, Diana continues to pursue both engineering and comedy, aiming to bring joy and insight to their audiences.

THIS EVENT IS SPONSORED BY:

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Northern MI HIV Summit 2024
Sep
27

Northern MI HIV Summit 2024

Healthcare professionals and the public can join a free hosted by Thomas Judd Care Center. The summit will feature educational sessions on HIV, free continuing education credits, the Community Collaborations Award, and showcases a 30-year anniversary video.

The event is free, but registration is required.

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Pajama Party
Sep
26

Pajama Party

Pajama Party

Up North Pride is excited to bring a new event to this year’s festivities! With panoramic views of Grand Traverse Bay, join us for a body-positive and inclusive pajama party — and a rare opportunity to dance on a rooftop in your pjs in the night air.

What to expect:

  • Snacks throughout the evening

  • An Inclusive Fashion show presented by Intimi hosted by Grand Rapids drag queen Dona Tella, who will also perform!

  • Nostalgic Sleepover activities: MASH, Diary confessions, nail polishing, friendship bracelets and stardust "tattoos"

  • Cookies and bedtime story

  • 3 different signature cocktails @ $8

Get your overnight stay with a special UNP Discount at our Official Hotel Partner Hotel Indigo!

Dress code: Dress as you like, with respect for our hosts when coming in and out of the party.

This is a ticketed event.

Ages 18+

THIS EVENT IS SPONSORED BY:

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Pride Ride & Sign Making Party
Sep
25

Pride Ride & Sign Making Party

PRIDE RIDE & SIGN MAKING PARTY

Join us at F&M park in your bike gear and pride gear for a spirited ride through downtown led by Norte and ending at The Little Fleet for our annual Sign Making Party. The Sign Making Party is your chance to make a statement and prepare for the Pride Visibility March on Saturday. The ride will begin at 6 pm so please join us at the park before 6 to rally up!

Free admission, all ages are welcome.

PRIDE RIDE IS SPONSORED BY:

SIGN MAKING PARTY IS SPONSORED BY:

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Sep
25

Pre Pride Ride Bike Decoration Experience

Join Little Joy Bike Club at F & M Park for a pre Pride Ride bike decoration experience on September 25th at 5:30!

We will bring streamers, ribbons, and other things that catch our eye at Michael’s Craft Store, and you will bring your creative spirit! We can’t wait to show our pride with you!

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QUEER:SAY Storytelling
Sep
24

QUEER:SAY Storytelling

QUEER:SAY Storytelling

Queer:Say is a live storytelling show where we can reconnect through the hilarious, heartfelt, and sometimes horrifying stories that tell life’s many truths. This special edition, paired with Up North Pride, will feature storytellers from the 2SLGBTQIA+ community. 

House opens at 6:30pm. Event starts at 7pm.

This is a ticketed event
Parental guidance is advised

THIS EVENT IS SPONSORED BY:

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Claybourne Elder: Gilded Age (concert)
Sep
13

Claybourne Elder: Gilded Age (concert)

Broadway’s hunky gay ex-Mormon dad Claybourne Elder (HBO’s The Gilded Age, Broadway: Company, Sunday in the Park with George, Bonnie and Clyde) brings his sold-out touring show to City Opera House for the first time in a hilarious, heartfelt and somewhat naughty evening. In a show that’s part cabaret, part stand-up, Clay explores sex, fatherhood, and what exactly happens when you eat the body of Christ. With Clay’s favorite music from Sondheim to the Great American Songbook to Whitney Houston – come see why critics call him “Handsome and intense” (NY Observer), “Tough and tender” (NY Daily News) and “Stupid funny as he is drop-dead buff” (The Wrap).

Claybourne Elder currently plays John Adams on HBO’s hit series The Gilded Age and was most recently seen on Broadway in the Tony Award-winning revival of Company starring Patti Lupone. He is a Grammy, Screen Actors Guild Award, Drama Desk and Lucille Lortel nominee and is known for his performances on Broadway in Bonnie and Clyde, Sunday in the Park with George, Torch Song and Sondheim on Sondheim at the Hollywood Bowl. He began his career originating the role of Hollis in Sondheim’s Road Show, he also originated the role of Ollie in Tennessee William’s One Arm. Other credits include: Do I Hear A Waltz at City Center, Allegro at Classic Stage, Two by Two (Starring Jason Alexander), Venice at the Public Theatre, Georgio in Passion, Tony in West Side Story, Joe in Angels in America, Curly in Oklahoma, Wolf/Cinderella’s Prince in Into the Woods, and Gaston in Beauty and the Beast. He also played Pete O’Malley in the CW’s The Carrie Diaries. His solar show has played to sold out crowds across the country and in London. Recently he launched an initiative called City of Strangers to provide free tickets to Broadway shows for people who might not have the means. They have given away over 3,000 tickets and have gained unexpected attention nationally, being featured on This American Life, CBS This Morning and The Kelly Clarkson Show.

Tier 1 $55; Tier 2 $45; Students $20. Purchase before June 1 and receive 10% off!

Special Up North Pride Discount Code for 20% Off: PRIDE

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Aug
24

Queer Clothing Swap

Join Benzie Area Pride Network for a FREE clothing swap for teens and adults!

This event is a fun, comfortable place to “swap” gently used clothing for “new to you” items that best express your gender identity and orientation.

Bring clothes, shoes, and accessories that no longer fit or no longer reflect you. We ask that clothes be in good condition and freshly laundered. Then, leave with “new to you” items!


Don't have clothes to swap? No problem! You’re welcome to come and find “new to you” items regardless of your ability to donate. We want you here!

Clothes will be sorted by “type” - dresses, tops, bottoms, shoes and by size, not by gender. Feel free to explore without the labels and without judgment. Volunteers from Benzie Area Pride Network will be on hand to help you find the perfect items to express you.

Facebook event: https://www.facebook.com/share/1aiYaZjJusBaFaet/

Contact the event organizer: kkarlene@gmail.com

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