Detroit Gay and Lesbian Scene
(Detroit, Michigan - MI, USA US)
Being such a large and lively city, Detroit comes with a thriving gay community and many friendly nightspots, which either welcome an LGBT crowd or more of a mixed crowd. If you are looking for a night out on the tiles, then consider the bars and clubs present along roads such as East 7 Mile Road, East 8 Mile Road, Greenfield Road, Holden Street, Michigan Avenue, West Warren Avenue and Winder Street, amongst others.
There are also a number of gay bars to be found on the outskirts of Detroit, in the suburbs of Dearborn, Hamtramck, Inkster, Royal Oak and Ferndale, the latter of which boasts a particularly notable gay and lesbian scene. In the 1960s, the Palmer Park Apartment District was central to the local LGBT community, with many of these residents choosing to relocate to both Ferndale and Royal Oak over the subsequent decades.
Ferndale belongs to the Detroit metropolitan area and is well-known in the Motor City for its progressive policies and open-minded residents. In Ferndale, many of the most popular LGBT-themed bars and nightclubs line streets such as 9 Mile Road and Woodward Avenue. A little further afield, Ann Arbor also offers an enticing nightlife.
Detroit Gay Festivals and Events
- Motor City Pride
Close to 40,000 visitors now attend this annual gay and lesbian celebration, which features an array of events such as arts and crafts, a beer garden, concerts and an LGBT commitment ceremony. Dating back to the early years of the 1970s, this is now by far the biggest pride celebration in Michigan and usually takes place over the second weekend in June.
The Sunday Pride Parade itself draws the biggest crowds and begins to wind its way through the city at 11:00, starting on Griswold Street, passing by the Cobo Center and finally reaching Hart Plaza and the iconic Dodge Fountain, close to the riverfront.
- Detroit Black Gay Pride
First held in the middle of the 1990s and now lasting around six days in total, Detroit's 'Hotter Than Summer' celebration attracts in the region of 20,000 gay and lesbian visitors for this extravaganza during July.
This annual event is one of the main highlights on Michigan's calendar and features an abundance of entertainment including a picnic in Palmer Park, a jazz jam, a large brunch get-together and a Mardi Gras-style parade. There is also a candlelit vigil, a party on the Detroit River, film screenings, numerous official parties and various educational opportunities at the Genesis Conference.
Affirmations Gay and Lesbian Community Center
Address: 195 West 9 Mile Road
Tel: +1 248 398 7105