With the holiday season in full swing, it's time to mix, mingle and celebrate (when it's not time for your favorite cozy, indoor activities). Whether you're the literary type or just in it for the Christmas cookies and tucking, we're here for it. Grab your family (chosen or the one you're stuck with), some friends and frienemies, all your neighbors and one-night-stands and take advantage of one — or all — of our favorite five queer things you can do right now(ish).
1. Stay Entertained at Beauty Beyond Drag's Holiday Revue
Emeritus, DeeDee Chaunte. Photo: Beyond Beauty Drag
Everyone's favorite wig-snatching ensemble, Beyond Beauty Drag (BBD), will appear in Grand Rapids at the Division Avenue Arts Collective (DAAC) for a one-night only holiday revue at 8 p.m. Dec. 18, in collaboration with Grand Rapids Pride Center (GRPC). The Revue will help raise awareness for GRPC amid unique festive cheer. "You can expect holiday tunes, lots of variety and conceptual performances," says Bradley Haas, co-director of BBD. "This is our way of celebrating the holidays and bringing our cheer to you." BBD's emeritus, DeeDee Chaunte, will host, and B.R.I.T will co-host. In addition, attendees will get a chance to offer donations at the end of the show.
Head over to Eventbrite to get your tickets.
2. Spend an Intimate Evening With David Sedaris
David Sedaris. Photo: Jenny Lewis
Find out firsthand why Alan Cumming once described David Sedaris's worldview as "a fascinating hybrid of the curious, cranky and kooky." The beloved out essayist and frequent NPR contributor will stage an intimate evening featuring readings from his latest collection, "A Carnival of Snackery: Diaries (2003-2020)." The best-seller will also offer a Q&A and a book signing at the event, set for 7:30 p.m. Dec. 13 at DeVos Performance Hall in Grand Rapids.
Attendees need proof of vaccination with a printed vaccination card or a negative COVID-19 test taken within 72 hours. Purchase tickets at the box office or Ticketmaster.com.
3. Play Santa for Trans Youth
Spread some joy to trans kids and young adults struggling with family and other heavy issues this holiday season. Pick a letter to Santa shared on @transanta and start filling your (virtual) sleigh with gift requests — many choices include gender-affirming products the recipient is typically unable to access. Whether you opt to remain anonymous or reveal your true identity, playing Santa to trans youth is sure to be a highlight of your holiday season.
To donate to their cause or to learn how to offer help, go to their Instagram @transanta.
4. Indulge in Desserts, Drinks and Drag Queens at the Royal Oak Farmers Market
Bill Lonskey, owner of The Quintessential Event Company, says this event promises "the sweetness of the bounty of desserts" and "the outrageous sassiness of the amazing and talented queens from Five15 Royal Oak." Which, objectively, sounds incredible.
Desserts, Drinks and Drag Queens, set for 5-9 p.m. Dec. 16 at the Royal Oak Farmers Market, will feature decadent desserts from multiple local bakeries, savory food options, dessert-inspired cocktails, a boutique selection of holiday gift vendors and a two-hour drag revue show. Drag personality Nikki Stevens will emcee the revue with Tasha Long, Victoria Sanchez, Prince Cole, Rialto Reign and others. Keep the festivities going at the optional afterglow at Pronto! Royal Oak.
For more information and to purchase tickets, go to celebratemetrodetroit.com.
5. Let Loose at LIVE Nightclub's Candy Bar Night
Photo: Heather H Photography
Let go of that holiday stress for an evening and head to Ann Arbor for LIVE Nightclub's next Candy Bar night at 9 p.m. Dec. 16. Candy Bar, a queer variety-themed event, will include DJ Medusa and live performances from local acts such as Nelly Beans, Baha Blast, Stevie Phoenix, Astoria Addams, Fearless Amaretto and Art A'Miss.
Force Majeure, LIVE's producer and stage manager, says, "if you are looking for entertainment, great music, a low-key environment and a welcoming community, there's a reason we're called the Candy family."
You must be 18 years old to attend and have proof of vaccination or a negative COVID-19 test within 48-hour. Tickets at the door.
