Part of the Gay Chicago Guide — bars, events & things to do.
Sunday, July 26, 2026
AIDS Garden Chicago
3003 N Lakefront Trail, Chicago, IL 60657, United StatesThe Dignity Dash is a lakefront 5K benefiting Brave Space Alliance, the Black, trans-led LGBTQ+ center on Chicago's South Side that provides health, housing, food, and identity-focused services. This year's "Thriving Through the Finish Line" course starts and finishes at AIDS Garden Chicago with a turnaround at the Peace Garden, rolling out in staggered heats: bikers at 10:00, runners at 10:05, then walkers, strollers, and adaptive athletes at 10:10. The site is step-free with elevator access, and organizers suggest taking the CTA.
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Thu, Sep 3
6 PM - 9 PM
Kit Kat Lounge, Chicago
Weekly drag dinner theater in Chicago's Northalsted. Haute couture performances, $10 martinis, and upscale dining in an Art Deco room every Thursday.
Weekly
Thu, Sep 3
7 PM - 8:30 PM
Dorothy, Chicago
Six cartoonists perform their work live at Dorothy in Chicago's West Town on Sep 3. Doors 6pm, readings 7pm, $12 advance / $17 door.
Thu, Sep 3
7 PM - 9 PM
Replay Lakeview, Chicago
Thirsty Thursday Trivia at Replay Lakeview, Chicago: weekly Thursday trivia at 7pm with cash prizes in the Halsted Street bar-arcade.
Weekly
Thu, Sep 3
8 PM - 2 AM
Cell Block, Chicago
Weekly drink specials at Cell Block, Chicago's leather and fetish bar. Front bar open to all, back bar at 8pm for the leather community. Check dress code.
Weekly
Thu, Sep 3
8 PM - 10 PM
Charlie's, Chicago
Monthly Thursday male revue at Charlie's Chicago featuring Ivan Tequila, Andy Santos, and DJ Fister. Gay bar with drinks, dancing, and queer rodeo vibes.
Monthly
Thu, Sep 3
9 PM - 1 AM
Meeting House Tavern, Chicago
Free weekly karaoke night every Thursday at Meeting House Tavern. No cover charge—sing, cheer on friends, and connect with the community in this welcoming gay bar.
WeeklyLet people know you're going, see who else is attending, and share the event with friends.
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