Queer nightlife, culture and community
Chicago’s queer nights, and the people who make them
Gay Chicago Magazine is an independent read on LGBTQ+ nightlife, Pride, local culture and travel — starting in Chicago and following the stories wherever they go.
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How to Start a Queer Book Club in 2026: Step-by-Step
Starting a queer book club takes less than people expect. You write down a purpose, pick a format, choose one book, find…
How to Find LGBTQ Movies Worth Watching in 2026
Learn how to find LGBTQ movies worth watching in using community lists, critic scores, mood and runtime filters, and a quick availability…
How to Pick a Karaoke Song That Suits Your Voice (2026)
Learn how to pick a karaoke song that suits your voice in : find your comfortable range, test the key the bar…
How to Run a Drag Story Hour at a Library (2026)
Learn how to run a drag story hour at a library in - approvals, performer booking, book selection, accessibility, handling complaints, and…
How Much Does It Cost to Hire a Drag Queen? (October 2026)
How much does it cost to hire a drag queen? Typical US rates for short sets, full shows, hosting, weddings, travel, celebrity…
How to Host a Karaoke Night at Home: Easy Guide (October 2026)
How to host a karaoke night at home in : pick the right karaoke app, build a balanced playlist, test the mic…
How to Book a Drag Performer for a Party: Practical Guide 2026
Learn how to book a drag performer for a party in : writing the brief, comparing written quotes, contract terms, run of…
How to Lip Sync Like a Performer: Simple Tricks (2026)
Learn how to lip sync like a performer with practical breath, diction, practice, and stage-confidence steps for karaoke, auditions, and live shows,…
How to Build a Drag Persona: Step-by-Step 2026
Learn how to build a drag persona with a strong name, look, voice, backstory, and performance style while keeping your character original…
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Before the night starts
Questions this site answers
- Which bars and clubs actually feel welcoming on a quiet weeknight?
- What is worth planning around during Pride season?
- Where do I find queer community events that aren’t nightlife?
- Is this a city I can travel to comfortably as a queer visitor?
About the magazine
Who this is for
Gay Chicago Magazine writes about LGBTQ+ life as it is actually lived — the venues, the organizers, the weekend plans and the places worth the trip.
It is made for queer adults and allies who want to know what is on, where to go, and who is behind it.