november2016

75 / 100

The five best LGBT events to do in NYC
Whether you’re looking for groundbreaking theater or a
sports game with an accepting crowd, there are tons of
great LGBT events happening all over the city this sum-
mer. These are five of the best.
Rainbow Fashion Week
Take in eight days of queer fashion shows, with daily
themed runways like “Rainbow Pets,” on which sharply
dressed models and dogs strut their stuff, and events
like Hair du Soleil, a showcase of the top ’do designers
in town. Plus, the festivities focus on sustainability, with
a goal to be the first carbon-neutral week of its kind, so
you can feel good about being trendy. Various locations
(212-726-2651, ). June 17–24;
$16.02–$317.44.
Fresh Fruit Festival
Whether you’re more into apples or oranges, you’ll find
something to suit your palate at this alt-friendly arts
bonanza celebrating LGBTQ creativity. This year’s full
lineup is yet to be announced, but last year’s included
slam poetry, a reimagining of King Lear in which the
protagonist suffers from Alzheimer’s, a dimly lit per-
formance of erotic cabaret and an evening of one-act
plays. Go on, take a bite. The Wild Project Theater, 193
E 3rd St ( ). July 11–24; schedule
and prices TBA.
Broadway Bares: On Demand
The chorus boys and girls of the Great White Way give
a big nod to the dancers of much smaller stages at this
annual dance-and-strip benefit for Broadway Cares/
Equity Fights AIDS. The background players head to
the forefront with scandalous skits, impeccable dance
routines and aerial feats—and, of course, a heavy
dose of burlesque and bare skin. Expect some cameos
from legends (past guests have included Allison Jan-
ney, Sutton Foster and Harvey Fierstein). Hammerstein
Ballroom, 311 W 34th St (212-840-0770, broadwayba-
). June 19 at 9:30pm, midnight; $50–$195, VIP
$295.
The Latex Ball
Ballroom traditions come alive at this 26th annual ben-
efit for Gay Men’s Health Crisis, an advocacy organiza-
tion for AIDS prevention and care. The night, themed
“Viva La Glam,”commemorates those lost to the vi-
rus—as well as a much brighter, AIDS-free future—with
extravagant performance competitions. Contestants can
vogue their way to cash prizes in categories like “Edito-
rial Deluxe” and “Glam Rock Role Models.” Don’t even
think about waiting till the night before to plan your outfit.
Mets LGBT Pride Night
The Mets roll out their first-ever Pride night, and a
portion of each ticket sold benefits the nonprofit LGBT
Network to combat bullying. Watch the game against the
San Diego Padres, chow down on sweet stadium food
(Shake Shack, anyone?), and stick around for the free
postgame concert. David Wright is always a plus too.
Aug 13 at 7:10pm; $35–$85.