Pride and Prejudice: Tucson's Thriving LGBTQ+ Entertainment Scene

By Josh Menghi Tucson is a city that knows how to throw a party! As an LGBTQ+ individual living in this sun-kissed town, I can confidently say that our community has got the entertainment game on lock. From drag shows to concerts, and from art galleries to bars, Tucson's got something for everyone. As someone who's been part of this vibrant community for years, I've had the pleasure of experiencing it all firsthand. And let me tell you, it's a wild ride! When I'm not busy writing about the latest happenings in town (hello, Pink Pulse!), you can find me dancing the night away at Club Congress, sipping margaritas with friends at the Rialto Theatre's rooftop bar, or simply enjoying the stunning views from the top of the Hotel Congress' roof deck. But what really sets Tucson apart is its commitment to celebrating and supporting its LGBTQ+ community. Take, for instance, our beloved Drag Queen Bingo night at The Screening Room, where queens like Sasha Sings and Raven Rona serve up laughs, glamour, and a whole lot of fun. Or the annual Pride Festival, which brings together thousands of people from all walks of life to celebrate love, acceptance, and inclusivity. And then there's the music scene – oh boy! Tucson is home to some of the most talented LGBTQ+ musicians out there. Case in point: the incomparable Amy Hooker, who recently released her stunning debut album, "Tucson Moon". Trust me when I say that this girl can SING – and she's got a style all her own! But it's not just about the entertainment; our community is built on love, acceptance, and support. Take, for example, the incredible work being done by organizations like the Tucson Rainbow Pride Committee, which has been advocating for LGBTQ+ rights in this city since 1987. Or the tireless efforts of local businesses like Gentle Ben's Petting Zoo, which proudly displays its "LGBTQ+-friendly" sign and welcomes all furry friends (and their two-legged companions) with open arms. As someone who's seen it all, I can confidently say that Tucson's LGBTQ+ community is more than just a party – it's a family. And when we come together to celebrate our differences and our shared humanity, there's no place I'd rather be! So the next time you're in town (and trust me, you should be!), make sure to swing by some of these amazing spots: * The Rialto Theatre: Catch a show, grab a drink, or just soak up the vibe on their iconic rooftop bar. * Club Congress: Dance the night away with your favorite DJs or simply enjoy the lively atmosphere. * Hotel Congress: Take in the stunning views from the roof deck or grab a bite to eat at the hotel's trendy restaurant, Cup Café. And don't forget to check out some of the incredible events and festivals happening throughout the year – like the Tucson Pride Festival (October), Drag Queen Bingo night (every 3rd Thursday), or the Arizona Queer Film Festival (November). So that's it for now – I hope you're as excited as I am about this vibrant, loving community we call home! See you on the dance floor!