The Best of Toronto's queer culture scene for May 2015

Shit We're Diggin'
Wiley - From The Outside




http://artsfestival.queerwest.org/


Outexpressions is a different Toronto Gay and Lesbian Media Publication, we round up the best events (well balanced with parties and cultural things and not just gay bars), from the city’s queer culture scene. We update our listings daily. Note on meaning of Queer in listings: Mixed crowd, not everyone is gay or lesbian. A safe space where everyone is welcome, in the places we list. * For event submissions, email Michel Paré at queerwestinfo@gmail.com


Thursday April 23 to Sunday May 3, 2015 - Hot Docs Film Festival @ Bloor Cinema. The annual Hot Docs film festival returns to Toronto to celebrate documentary films, with screenings of 210 films, showcasing work by established filmmakers and up-and-coming talent. Reviews of this year's LGBT lineup includes\: From This Day Forward - http://bit.ly/1c1npvgIn the midst of filmmaker Sharon Shattuck’s awkward preteen years, her father came out as a transgender woman and changed her name to Trisha. It's Me, Hilary: The Man Who Drew Eloise - http://bit.ly/1GhDud3A young, effusive girl with a bright ribbon in her messy hair scours the Plaza Hotel in New York on a quest to know everything about both the hotel and its guests.Over the Rainbow - http://bit.ly/1MZk Dau Leny had never been married, but she did have a boyfriend once. A kind man who wanted to marry her, she says. But love—true love—always remained a mystery for her and finally A Sinner in Mecca - http://bit.ly/1bRQysSOpenly gay and a devout Muslim, Parvez Sharma embarks on a perilous pilgrimage to Mecca hoping to find an answer to this most personal question: is it possible for someone like him to be a good Muslim.

Gayby Baby, is premiering at the Hot Docs Film Festival in Toronto on April 29, Gayby Baby is an Australian documentary filmed over three years, which follows the lives of four kids who have been raised by same-sex parents. It takes us into the homes and intimate family spaces of these families, exploring the family unit from the distinct perspective of the kids. http:// www.thegaybyproject.com

The Details: 506 Bloor St. W. @ Bathurst, Toronto 416.637.3123 Bloor Hot Docs Cinema, Min Price: $6.20, Max Price: $19.45 Phone: 416-203-2155 http://www.hotdocs.ca/ Queer West Village, Toronto Ontario

Friday May 1 to 31, 2015 -Scotiabank CONTACT Photography Festival @ various locations. The largest photography event in the world is back! CONTACT is an annual event in May featuring over 1,500 Canadian and international artists and photographers exhibiting at more than 175 venues throughout the Greater Toronto Area. http://scotiabankcontactphoto.com/

Friday May 1, 2015 - Yacht Rock @ The Boat, 158 Augusta Ave. A night of dancing to the smoothest music you’ve ever heard in your life. $5 to step aboard. http://www.theboatkensington.com/ 10 PM The Boat, 158 Augusta Ave Queer West Village, Toronto Ontario

Friday May 1, 2015 - No Pants Day Protest, Pub Crawl & Dance Party @ The Supermarket. On May 1, people around the world will refuse to pants. No Pants Army, it is time to party. Grab your fancy suits, fancy work dresses, and fancy no pants, the theme for this party is Business Super Casual. 7:30-11pm: Pants Protest & Pub Crawl 11pm 'til we drop: No Pants Dance Party at The Supermarket in Kensington hosted by Toronto's freestylin', pants-hatin' rapper Serb Superb 7:30 PM - 3:00 AM Supermarket Restaurant and Bar 268 Augusta Ave https://www.facebook.com/events/1613365695543262 Queer West Village, Toronto Ontario

Friday May 1, 2015 - Wedding Night @ The Piston, A new affair that glorifies those qualities which are held in highest regard when it comes to a ceremony of holy matrimony: dancing, drinking, bad decision-making, gussying up, and annoying the DJ with requests for songs that he won’t play. Trust in guilty pleasures for an evening of eclectic musical merrymaking! Overdressing for this occasion is very much encouraged. The Piston, 937 Bloor St W 10 PM $5 http://thepiston.ca/press/ Queer West Village, Toronto Ontario

Friday May 1, 2015 - Puppy Love @ The Beaver, 1192 Queen St. W. Laid back queer dance party. More a peck-on-the-cheek than a full-on makeout. A night for people who aren’t into the club scene but want to shake their booty and make new friends. Also: smallish dance floor, board games/truth or dare/spin the bottle, porn screenings, outdoor patio, tons of sex-positive friends to meet, lots of places to sit and talk! $5. 10 PM The Beaver, 1192 Queen St. Queer West Village, Toronto Ontario

Friday May 1, 2015 - A Summer Fling Dance Party @ The Steady The Summer Fling DJs play great songs from all of the eras: classic rock, funk and disco, modern indie, and a sprinkle of other dance floor favourites. From Diana Ross to David Bowie to Daft Punk. And that’s just the letter D. 10:30 PM The Steady, 1051 Bloor St. W., Queer West Village, Toronto Ontario

Friday May 1, 2015 - SoulSkank @ Handlebar, Funk, soul, reggae, ska, and dancehall in its most raw form! A vinyl-only dance party with DJs Gramera and Parkdale Funk on the decks + Dennis P on the sax. Free before 11 pm, $5 after. 10 PM Handlebar, 159 Augusta Ave. http://www.thehandlebar.ca/ Queer West Village, Toronto Ontario

Saturday May 2, 2015 - Lucky Bitches @ The Ossington Two ice stallions serve it up hot with a glamour-positive party for anyone who knows what it’s like to be a lucky bitch. The guiltiest of pleasures all night: hitz that span the ages, ’90s hip-hop, contemporary hitz, ’80s velvet jamz, forgotten gemz. The Ossington, 61 Ossington Ave 10 PM http://www.theossington.com/ Queer West Village, Toronto Ontario

Saturday May 2, 2015 - The famous Goin' Steady Djs return to The Garrison. ((( CHRONOLOGIC ))) a dance party through the ages. Pop and Antipop from Since the End of History i. e. Music from 1890 to 2016, played in chronological order...The Goin' Steady Djs play the absolute best dance tracks from every era ---- unexpect the accepted except exceptional exceptions & DANCE! Come early to avoid sad temper tantrums. 10 PM 1197 Dundas St W https://www.facebook.com/events/1567126843538164/ Queer West Village, Toronto Ontario

Sunday May 3, 2015 - PPOP Up Market @ The Central. Begins at Noon hour A pop-up market showcasing different artists, crafters, jewelers, creators, and musicians. Until 5 pm. The Central, 603 Markham St Mirvish Village Toronto Ontario

Sunday May 3, 2015 - Sunday Gravy Gay Asian BBQ Dinner. @ THR & Co.: THR & Co. 97 Harbord Street Toronto, ON Canada Price: $30 Sun, May 03, 05:30 pm to Sun, May 03, 10:30 pm All Ages. http://www.thrandco.com/

Sunday May 3, 2015 - Vancouver Comedian Margaret Cho @ Danforth Music Hall. She is gross. She is candid. She is sad. She is quick and she keeps it real. We need Margaret Cho and we are lucky to have her.TICKETS: $61.00 - $76.25 DOOR: 6:30pm - For Mature Audiences Only Tickets http://www.ticketmaster.ca/event/10004E2CD1A55EA8

Wednesday May 3, 2015, - Crooked Soul with DJ Cozmic Cat @ Crocked Star (New listing Dec 10/14) Cozmic Cat's funky soulful sound has rocked crowds worldwide. From classic Hiphop and House to Funk, Soul, and party jams, her broad musical knowledge and keen sense of selection is why the Cat has been successful in the game as a dj and producer since the mid 90s. 10 PM -2 AM on the Ossington Strip. $5 pints and funky music.. come hang out :) http://www.blogto.com/bars/crookedstar Cozmic Cat web site http://www.djcozmic.com/ Cozmic Cat web site http://www.djcozmic.com/ Soundcloud https://soundcloud.com/djcozmic, Queer West Village Toronto, Ontario

Wednesday May 6, 2015 - Brockton Writers Series Tak Show @ Full of Beans Coffee House. Emily Keeler, Books Editor at the National Post, will give a talk on "Getting Started in Book Reviewing" at 6:30pm. Readings/performances will begin at 7:00 with Zainab Amadahy, Ghadeer Malek, Mark Silverberg and Jane Woods. The reading is PWYC (suggested $3-$5) and features a Q&A with the writers afterward. Books and treats are available for sale. Please note that while the venue is wheelchair accessible, washroom facilities are not. Full of beans Coffee House & Roastery 1348 Dundas St. West, Toronto, Ontario 6:30 pm to 8:30 PM https://www.facebook.com/events/1612266588992700/
 
Thursday May 7, 2015 - Fat Laces @ The Ossington, 10 pm 61 Ossington Ave. DJ Big Jimmy Mills, the scratch-monster, spins old school hip-hop. http://www.theossington.com/

Thursday May 7, 2015 - Hot Damn It's A Queer Poetry Slam @ Buddies. We're slamming at (the fully accessible) Buddies In Bad Times Theatre! Get your tickets today through their box office! Here's our lineup of fantastic poets Vanessa Mc Gowan Sasha Patterson KT Job Mind The Gap Bender Barbara Eronchina Trick Beth Murch Darcy Alemany.

Queer West Film Festival is sponsoring Hot Damn It's Queer Poetry Slam Finals @ Buddies in exchange for some publicity for our festival Aug 7-9 at Revue Cinema . We're always happy to co-present with other events and festivals

More details and Tickets http://buddiesinbadtimes.com/event/hot-damn-its-a-queer-slam 12 Alexander Street | Toronto | M4Y 1B4 Box Office: 416-975-8555

Friday May 8, 2015 - Dirty Talk @ Unlovable Pammm and Diana play the sparkliest of italo disco, cosmic euro synthpop, and spaced-out weird dad jams. Unlovable, 1415-B Dundas St. W. 10 PM

Friday May8, 2015 - Little gay own Bambi hosts Betulab 10 PM 1265 Dundas St. W. DJs David Patterson and Aleem Jamal-Kabani play house and techno all night long.

Friday May 8, 2015 - Fake Geek Girls Like Us Pop Up @ The Annex Art Centre. Fake Geek Girls Like Us is a Pop Up event exploring the female figure in popular culture in the form of art, zines and performances. There will be a arts table showcasing local talent where zines, buttons and patches will be available. 100% of proceeds sold goes towards the artist! Event starts at 7pm, performances start at 9pm. Runs 7:00 PM - 11:00 PM The Annex Art Centre, 1075 Bathurst Street Toronto ON https://www.facebook.com/events/844629968919569/
 
Friday May 8, 2015 - Are you a young queer writer creator between the ages of 18 and 30? - Seeking folks to be part of a three day workshop (June 4-6) and one evening performance on 8th June 2015. It’s produced by The Cabaret Company, directed by Sky Gilbert, and it’s called The Kitchen Party Nervous Breakdown Reality TV Show. It will feature 10 young actors creating queer characters through improvisation. The performance will be for an invited audience of theatre people (to expose all you talented young ‘uns to lots of producers, etc..). The piece will be videotaped so that we can turn this into a 20 minute TV show to be put on the web. You will be paid an honorarium for the workshop and for the performance ($100). Applications due May 8. For further details and how to apply https://www.facebook.com/events/443450719148284/

Saturday May 9, 2015 - Drake Night @ The Red Light, 1185 Dundas St. W. All Drake, all night with DJs Geoff Snack and Patrick McGuire. 10 PM http://www.theredlighttoronto.com/

Saturday Ma9, 2015 - Git Down @ Junction City Music Hall, DJs OH16 and Splattermonkey bring you the best soul and funk night in the Junction! The hits you love and plenty of rare groove as well, all on vinyl. Junction City Music Hall, 2907 Dundas St. W. http://www.junctioncitymusichall.com/

Saturday May 9, 2015 - Beam Me Up Disco @ The Piston, . Beam Me Up is synonymous with disco – that inclusive, amorous movement soundtracked by transcendent tunes of positivity and of matchless dance floor magnificence. Anticipate funk, jazz, soul, boogie, rap, rare groove, reggae, gospel, and proto-house all factoring throughout the evening. Residents A Digital Needle and Cyclist are joined for an opener from delphian duo the Weather Network, whose luminous positivity is felt force in their selections. The Piston, 937 Bloor St. W. 10 PM http://thepiston.ca/press/

Saturday May 9, 2015 - Young Paris LIVE @ Smiling Buddha Bar. Don't miss Young Paris May 9th at Canadian Music Week aised in NYC by world renown Congolese performers, Young Paris crafts a unique sound that threads the boundary between rap and electronic dance music and samples heavily from traditional African drumbeats. Along with 5 of his brothers and sisters, he performs an exuberant live show that merges dance, performance art, and an unparalleled personal style. 10 PM Smilling Buddha Bar, 961 College St, Toronto, ON https://www.facebook.com/events/1477169639239608

Saturday May 9, 2015 - Toronto Parkdale Street sidewalk Festival. the third year in a row! There will be live performances, gift giveaways, arts and crafts for kids, and a fantastic sidewalk sale all along Queen Street from Dufferin to Roncesvalles. It all kicks off at 11:00am, visit our website http://www.parkdalevillagebia.com for more information on all the exciting things happening during the festival in Parkdale Village! 11:00 AM - 6:00 PM Runs from Dufferin to Roncesvalles, Toronto ON

Saturday May 9, 2015 - Business Woman's Special: Queer Dance Party WIGS! @ The Round. DJs Sammy Royale, Diego Armand, and Nino Brown are spinning. * WIGS are not required but strongly encouraged. Round Venue (Formerly Augusta House),152a Augusta Ave. $6 Queer West Village, Toronto On. Not wheelchair accessible. http://roundvenue.com/

Saturday May 9, 2015 - TCAF's most intrepid queer comics creators! @ Church on Church. Hosted by Anne Ishii of MASSIVE, the 2015 Queer Mixer is going to include presentations from folks such as Cathy G. Johnson, Reed Black, Lee Lai, Kate Lavut, Northwest Press and more! This is a great way to mix and mingle with a group of awesome creators who are telling some of the most exciting and compelling stories in comics today. Also, get there early -- there might be prizes!!! 2015 Queer Mixer Hosted by Anne Ishii of MASSIVE Saturday May 9th, 2015 7pm - 9pm @ CHURCH on Church 504 Church St, Toronto ON https://www.facebook.com/events/1416876695284145/

Saturday May 9 - Rough Trade Queer Dance Party @ The Black Eagle. TRADE 2 YEAR ANNIVERSARY! Performance by RICA SHAY, DJ WILLIAM FRANCIS NYC and DJ SCOOTER MCCREIGHT Cover $5 / $10 after midnight 10 PM The Black Eagle 457 Church Street Toronto Ontario http://blackeagletoronto.com/#eat-together

Sunday May 10, 2015 - Parkdale Flea Market @ Goodfellas Gallery. Antiques, vintage, collectables, designer objects, local artisans, crafts, food + drink, and more. Caplansky’s Food Truck will be returning, so save some room in your belly for their delicious pulled pork sliders and poutine. Free entry for all! Until 5 pm. http://www.goodfellasgallery.com/ Goodfellas Gallery, 1266 Queen St. W Toronto

Sunday May 10, 2015 - Seinfeld Trivia Night @ KITCH Bar, Think you know Seinfeld? Well it’s not a lie if you believe it, and if you can prove you’re the master of your domain, then it’s next stop Pottersville. This is the Famous ORIGINAL Ray’s of monthly Seinfeld trivia, not some knock-off with their own case at the end of the aisle. Come for the trivia, stay for the episode and the JuJy Fruits! Maybe you’ll win a contest. Triva at 8 pm. KITCH, 229 Geary Ave.http://www.kitchbar.com/

Sunday May10, 2015 - Boards & Beards @ Holy Oak Cafe If you are cool enough to be a board game nerd, come out to Boards & Beards. Plaid shirts and beards get in free, everyone else has to give a high-five. Here’s all the very uncool (but secretly awesome) games you’ll be playing: Libetalia, Lords of Vegas, Sheriff of Nottingham, The Cure, Samurai Spirit, Splendor, and Concept. 5 pm Until 10 pm. Holy Oak, 1241 Bloor St. W http://holyoakcafe.com/

Monday May 11, 2015 - Free Flicks @ The Royal Cinema. NOW Magazine and The Royal Cinema - Toronto invite you to a new, 100% free monthly film series - NOW Free Flick Mondays. Our first screening will be the beloved classic flick, Indiana Jones and the Raiders of the Lost Ark. Tickets are FREE! Available at the cinema when doors open at 6:30 PM (first come, first serve). The first 100 guests will be treated to a free popcorn+drink courtesy of The Royal Cinema. Happens every Monday in May. The Royal Cinema - Toronto 608 College Street, Toronto, Ontario http://www.theroyal.to/

Monday May 11, 2015 - Ukrainian human rights activist Anna Dovgopol speaking out about the current situation of LGBT people in Ukraine, in conversation with Toronto-based Ukrainian Canadian filmmaker Marusya Bociurkiw. Innis Town Hall Monday May 11th from 7-8:30pm Innis Town Hall, 2 Sussex Ave. (St. George subway) https://www.facebook.com/events/294453290678604/ Queer West Village, Toronto Ontario 7:30 PM

Wednesday May 13, 2015, - Crooked Soul with DJ Cozmic Cat @ Crocked Star (New listing Dec 10/14) Cozmic Cat's funky soulful sound has rocked crowds worldwide. From classic Hiphop and House to Funk, Soul, and party jams, her broad musical knowledge and keen sense of selection is why the Cat has been successful in the game as a dj and producer since the mid 90s. 10 PM -2 AM on the Ossington Strip. $5 pints and funky music.. come hang out :) http://www.blogto.com/bars/crookedstar Cozmic Cat web site http://www.djcozmic.com/ Cozmic Cat web site http://www.djcozmic.com/ Soundcloud https://soundcloud.com/djcozmic, Queer West Village Toronto, Ontario

Thursday May 14, 2015 - Noise Freqs Presents: Bambounou @ Coalition: Lounge. Bambounou (France) creates his music compulsively and sincerely; his beats can make an oasis appear in the middle of the Sahara. With support from Èbony, BSMNT, and Metoux. Visuals by Jason Neyra. $10 Coalition: T.O, 282 Augusta Ave. 10 PM http://www.coalitionlounge.com/

Thursday May 14, 2015 - UK Electronic Artist Vessel @ Double Double Land. Bristol, UK. 22 year old electronic artist Sebastian Gainsborough. Seb rose to prominence in 2011 through acclaimed releases for Throwing Snow’s fledgling label left_blank, As part of the Young Echo collective alongside fellow left_blank artist El Kid, and Punch Drunk signees Kahn & Zhou, Seb is at the forefront of a groundbreaking generation of new producers.Seb creates exciting, unclassifiable music across shifting BPM's. with LINUS BOOTH DJ & ANDREW ROSS https://soundcloud.com/vesse l9 PM Double Double Land 209 Augusta Avenue Queer West Toronto ON
http://www.doubledoubleland.com/ Facebook event listing: https://www.facebook.com/events/673403652803446

Thursdady May 14, 2014 - Public Discussion Canada’s Role in LGBTI Human Rights Globally @ University of Toronto Arts Centre. The Dignity Initiative hosts a reception and interactive discussion on how Canadians are becoming more involved in supporting human rights for LGBTI people around the world.

Thursday May 14, 2015 - Punk Rock Bingo @ The D-Beatstro. There will be drinks, prizes, cards, crayons, and tons of punk rock music. A buck a card to play, and don't forget your lucky trinkets. Hosted by Rockin Robin. Tunes by DJ Triple-X. Remember there will be one winner, and lots of losers! Thursday May 14th - 8pm to 11pm D Beatstro - 1292 Bloor St W @ Landsdowne D-Beatstro : a space that cultivates community and creativity. Cafe/art space/ vegan treats/ live music 8:00 PM - 11:00 PM https://www.facebook.com/events/1396390040681894/ Queer West Toronto, Ontario

Friday May 15, 2015 - Love Handle @ The Piston, 937 Bloor St. W. Featuring the Toronto debut of Orlando ‘Buscrates’ Marshall alongside Son of S.O.U.L. and resident Famous Lee. Expect a dancer’s mix of modern and classic funk slappers as well as a healthy dose of modern soul and two step. $5. http://thepiston.ca/press/

Friday May 15, 2015 - Yes Yes Y’all @ RYZE Internationally known DJs spin at this cavernous night spot featuring premium sound & light shows. The hottest, sweatiest, busiest queer hip-hop/dancehall/RnB jam around! Vybz meets A$AP meets Kendrick meets Cham meets Foxy meets Ciara. $6 before midnight, more after. RYZE, 423 College St. http://ryzeoncollege.com/

Friday May 15, 2015 - Shadows of Motown @ The Boat, Shadows of Motown is a dance party that plays the biggest and best Motown, doo wop, booty shakin’ hits! With DJs Slater, Well Said, and Ty. 10 PM Cover $5. The Boat, 158 Augusta Ave. http://www.theboatkensington.com/
 
Friday May 15, 2015 - Soft Stroke @ Bambi’s, Bambi's is a moderately priced casual Cocktails & martini bar located in the Portugal Village area of West Toronto. Gritty house and shadowy techno with a soft touch. Smoke machine and projections in effect. DJs CL, Metoux, and Peach B2B2B all night. $5. Bambi’s, 1265 Dundas St. W.

Friday May 15, 2015 - Otter Poetry Launch Party @ Glad Day Gay Book Shop. Ben Ladouceur's debut poetry collection, Otter, shares spaces with men. Joining Ben to celebrate his launch is special guest Bardia Sinaee. Bardia Sinaee's poems have appeared or are forthcoming in Arc, Lemon Hound, The Walrus and Best Canadian Poetry 2015. 7:30pm - 9:00pm Free. Glad Day, 598a Yonge St Toronto, Ontario Not wheelchair Accessible. http://www.gladdaybookshop.com/

Saturday May 16 & Sunday May 17, 2015 - Chrildrens Teddy Bear Picnic on Toronto Centre Island. The Teddy Bear Picnic is back!!! May long weekend- Great line up of Free Activities: Everyday 11AM - 4PM: - Face Painting by Main Event Happy Clowns - Far Enough Farm Petting Area - Far Enough Farm Colouring & Craft Station - James Funnyhat Live Performances 12:00PM, 1:00PM, 2:15PM, 3:15PM *(4) 30 min shows per day. - Teddy Bear Clinic - bring your favourite stuffy for a 'check up' - Visits from Beasley Bear Saturday May 16 11am - 4pm: Take your Picture with Spiderman & Superman with our Friends from the Eaton Chelsea. Centreville Amusement Park Centre Island 11:00 AM - 4:00 PM http://www.centreisland.ca/

Saturday May 16 & Sunday May 17, 2015 The Travelling Gypsy Market #2 @ Scrim4Rent & KOS Restaurant (Kens ington Market) 0am to 6pm at Scrim4Rent & KOS Restaurant, 86A Nassau St & 61 Bellevue AveArtisans, Illustrators, Photography, Vintage, Live Music and Live Art Painting 10:00 AM - 6:00 PM https://www.facebook.com/events/798718313546198/
 
Saturday May 16, 2015 - Pink Dot TO 2015 - Toronto Chinatown Pride March @ Market 707 Pinkdot is a non-profit movement originating in Singapore by a group of individuals who care deeply and support the belief that everyone deserves the freedom to love. While we are fortunate to have marriage equality in Toronto, LGBT Asians in Toronto still face challenges from their families, friends, and the greater Asian community. With little conversation about being LGBT and Asian, this under represented group still struggles with coming out to their family and friends. We are gathering in Chinatown to show there is support and love in our community for LGBT Asians who are still trying to find a place where they feel comfortable to be themselves. It is an event for everyone; straight, gay, and allies, who support the belief that everyone deserves the freedom to love. 12 PM to 3 PM Market 707 (707 Dundas Street at Bathurst) FREE Wear: PINKhttps://www.facebook.com/events/373403159517791/


Saturday May16, 2015 - Bellwoods Flea Market @ 824 & 831 Dundas St W (Magpie Taproom) The Bellwoods Flea is back May16th 11am-6pm, bigger and better than before with a stellar 40+ curated line up of vendors. With the addition of our new 3200 sq venue we have more room, more vendors and more variety then ever before. Admission is always FREE and four legged friends are always welcome. 10 Am to 6 PM https://www.facebook.com/BellwoodsFlea Queer west, Toronto ON

Saturday May 16, 2015 - Queer sex positive dance party CrushTO - 3 YEAR ANNIVERSARY @ The Steady! A sweaty dance party back room with a cutesy quieter vibe, complete with Spin The Bottle & Truth or Dare front room. This month were celebrating all the drag kings and queens and those who fall somewhere in between. Gender can be fluid, its expressions are limitless. Dress code is whatever feels fabulous to you. Queer sex positive dance party featuring sexier flavours of music from our resident DJ, Nate Nightcall Featuring: Burlesque & Drag by Johnny B Goode & Kelsey Slammer 10 PM The Steady Cafe & Bar 1051 Bloor St W Queer west, Toronto ON https://www.facebook.com/events/1425000461134867

Saturday May 16, 2015 - HiM: Male live dance performance @ UNIUN Nightclub http://uniun.com/Live dance performance that will showcase the male form at its prime: athletic, strong and sensual. Choreographed by one of Toronto's premier hip hop and dance talents Ryan Scheel, you'll see some moves that will make Channing jealous. Every number will sexier and more exciting than the last, and our soundtrack will get you dancing just as much as the guys on stage. The eventing includes a beauty lounge to perfectly pamper you and best of all a show from the men of HiM. UNIUN Nightclub 473 Adelaide Street West Toronto, ON Tickets available at: http://www.himpromotions.com/tickets(save $10 off with code HiMMan)

Saturday May 16 2015 , Big Queer Dance Party Cherry Bomb @ The Round. The original feel good, friendly and inclusive queer women's monthly where everyone is welcome. Spinning tonight DJs Denise Benson and Cozmic Kat http://www.djcozmic.com/ Soundcloud https://soundcloud.com/djcozmic, Cover: $5 before 11pm . $8 after Not wheelchair accesible. 152A Augusta (upstairs) Kensington Market, Toronto Ontario. http://roundvenue.com/ Queer West Toronto, Ontario

Sunday May 17, 2015 - Toronto Bike Month Event -LGBT Bicycle Easy Peasy 41K Ride along Lakeshore The 100 member Toronto Gay West Bicycle Club is organizing our first group ride on Sunday May 17th at 2pm. Non members gay or straight welcome too. From there we cycle back along the Water Front Trail exiting Queensway & Windermere, Then cycle along the Queensway to Parkdale's Cadillac Lounge arriving around 4:30 PM, 1296 Queen St W Big Patio for munchies, liquids, and shop talk. Possible late night bike riding to follow, so bring your lights!

The Details: Meet at Bathurst St and the lake (Stadium Road and Queens Quay west. two blocks west of Bathurst and Queens Quay) We will ride along the Martin Goodman Bike Trail also known as Lake Shore Trail from downtown Toronto to Either Marie Curtis Park or Dixie Road. Non members welcome. NO RSVP required just show up. Possible late night bike riding to follow, so bring your lights! The GWBike Club is the largest and only LGBT cycling club in Canada, founded in 2003. Ride Leader today Elek Simella, https://www.facebook.com/events/1482495202040700/1482496795373874/

Monday May 18, 2015 - Visit Toronto Islands by Voyageur Canoe on Victoria Day. Paddle a 20-seat canoe to the Toronto Islands and discover its' numerous lagoons and small islands, with fellow paddlers. The guide/instructor will accompany each boat and provide instructions for all the participants. The canoes will depart from the Harbourfront and paddle to the islands. After visit to the Bird Sanctuary, the boat will let the Voyageurs off at the Centre Island, for one-hour-brake. This activity is 3hr long. No experience necessary. From Noon to 3 PM Canoe Toronto 283A Queen's Quay West, Toronto, ON http://www.canoetoronto.com/

Monday May 18, 2015 - Victoria Day Toronto Bubble Ball Fest 2015 Bubble Ball Fest 2015 is coming to Toronto! It's soccer, it's bumper cars, it's mad fun. Basically, you play soccer while wearing a giant inflatable bubble; its squishy sphere is meant to encourage crashes and smashes. It is a cross of Zorbing and Soccer. Price: $20 Players/ $5 Spectators. Must be 18-35 yrs old to play. REGISTER http://sperro.org/ Crawford Academy Field, 531 Finch Avenue West, North York ON

Monday May 18, 2015 - Victoria Day Fireworks @ Ashbridges Bay Park. Toronto's only Victoria Day fireworks show will be a spectacular 14 minute display at Ashbridges Bay Park, rain or shine. Featuring over 2,000 fireworks and closing with a grand finale of pyrotechnic wonders. TTC service will be increased between Queen Street East and the Bloor-Danforth subway on the Coxwell (22A), Main (64) and Woodbine South (92A). It is recommended that members of the public use the TTC and leave their cars at home. A special viewing area with limited space is set aside to accommodate people with disabilities and their families. City bylaws prohibit the public from setting off personal fireworks in the park. 9:45 PM FREE

Monday May 18, 2015 - ELECTRIC ISLAND VICTORIA DAY @ Hanlan's Point (Toronto Island) Electric Island 2015 - The fully licensed concert and picnic series returns this summer with another 4 events stacked with world class talent. The series launch takes place Victoria Day Weekend Monday at Toronto's Hanlan’s Point! Gates Open: 1:00pm | Event Closes: 10:30pm ickets are on sale NOW at http://www.electricisland.to/ticketsElectric Island is accessible via the Hanlan’s Point ferry, which can be boarded at 9 Queens Quay West, near the Westin Harbour Castle hotel. The ferry runs generally every 30 minutes. Full schedule and more information can be found on the website at http://www.electricisland.tohttp://www.electricisland.to

Thursday May 21, 2015 - Opening Night for Hedwig and the Angry Inch @ The Lower Ossington Theatre Hedwig was born a boy named Hansel in Communist East Berlin who dreamed of finding his other half and becoming a big American rock star. When a handsome American GI promises love and liberation, it seems like a dream come true. But there's a catch- in order to marry and emigrate Hansel must "leave a little something behind." 8:00 PM - 10:30 PM Price $ 49.99 Runs May 21st 2015- June 13th 2015 The Lower Ossington Theatre 100A Ossington Avenue Toronto, Ontario Tickets https://tickets.ticketwise.ca/event/Hedwig-Toronto

Thursday May 21, 2015 - Opening Night Tony Award for Best Musical, Hairspray @ Theatre Passe Muraille. Hairspray tells the story of the lovable plus-size teen Tracy Turnblad. She has only one desire — to dance on the popular Corny Collins Show. When that dream comes true, Tracy is transformed from social outcast to sudden star. She uses her new-found power to dethrone the reigning Teen Queen, win the affections of heartthrob Link Larkin, and integrate a TV network. Runs May 21-23, 2015 Theatre Passe Muraille 16 Ryerson Avenue, Toronto, Ontario Students $20 and Adult Tickets $25 http://mainstagetheatre.com/tickets/
 
Thursday May 21, 2015 - The 25th Annual Miss Gay Toronto Pageant @ Zipperz/Cellblock Bar Come and Join your Hostess Miss Chris Edwards (Female Impersonator of the Year 2004) and Co-Hostess Jeantte Dupree as they look for the next Miss Gay Toronto 2015-16. With performances by Robin Loren (MGT 1995), Alisha Van Horne (MGT 2014), Carlotta Carlisle (MGU 2014), Jeanette Dupree (MGT 1990), and Chris Edwards. 9 PM Zipperz/Cellblock Bar 72 Carlton St. (Church St.) Toronto, ON Gay Village

Friday May 22, 2015 - Sweaty queer dance party! Gotta Pay the Rent 5 @ The Beaver. Lobodotcom and Aceheaven (Jen.eralist) are reunited after a couple months apart, and coming a week early. Landlord is being a *, but just gonna dance it off! Music is indie-electro and nu-disco with some fun classics melted in like butter. Get greasy. No Cover. 10:30 PM - 2:30 AMBeaver Cafe 1192 Queen Street West https://www.facebook.com/events/1431077157201811/
 
Friday May 22, 2015 - BAD BEACHES: A Tropical Queer Women Dance Night @ Monarch Tavern, PUSSYCAT presents "BAD BEACHES," a dance party playing hot, sweaty dance tunes from the baddest b$*ches around... in a tropical oasis! We welcome queer women of all stripes, and anyone else who wants to come get down with their inner bad beach and some other bad beaches! So splash on some colour - or your baddest digs - and come welcome in summer with palm trees, pina coladas, and all-female EDM!

The Details Monarch Tavern, 12 Clinton St., Toronto, Ontario $5 at the door. Djs: Wednesday's Child & KiM of DiamondZ facebook.com/events/630372603728899/ABOUT US: https://www.facebook.com/groups/385277511658422/

Saturday May 23 & 24, 2015 - Doors Open Toronto. Offering free and rare access to more than 150 architecturally, historically, culturally and socially significant buildings across the city. This year's theme, Sports, Recreation and Leisure, will offer attendees a sneak peek inside many of the new sites constructed specifically for the TORONTO 2015 Pan American / Parapan American Games. Along with these buildings, the city will open its doors to private and public recreational facilities used by its residents for sporting, recreation and leisure time ranging from indoor rock climbing facilities to dance studios and locations that are soon to become cultural or sporting tourism attractions. https://www.facebook.com/doorsopenTO
 
Saturday May 23, 2015 - Blessed A brand new gay dance party in Queer West Toronto. @ Remix Lounge. Doors @10pm, $5 Cover. Featuring a special performance by drag queen Enya Dreams. Stay #blessed 0:00 PM - 3:00 AM Remix Lounge 1305 Dundas St., Toronto, Ontario http://remixlounge.ca/

Monday May 25, 2015 - Toronto Bike Month BIKE TO WORK DAY Group Commute & Pancake Breakfast at Nathan Phillips Square — Ride with hundreds of cyclists from Yonge and Bloor at 7:30 am to Nathan Phillips Square and enjoy a free pancake breakfast when you get there! RSVP Required Westenders Meet at High Park north end at Bloor W at 7 AM/

Friday May 29, 2015 - Queer Nation Dance Party @ The Garrison . Spinning tonight Dj Cozmic Cat http://www.djcozmic.com/ & DJ John Caffery https://soundcloud.com/dj-john-caffery The Garrison 1197 Dundas St W, $5 19+ w/I.D.This event is wheelchair accessible. Queer West Village, Toronto ON.

Saturday May 30, 2015 - Egale hosts a LGBT Homeless night OUT at Night 2015 @ Egale's Headquarters. Over 20% of homeless youth in Canada identify as Lesbian, Gay, Bisexual, Trans, Queer or Two-Spirit (LGBT) You can help! Sign up to spend a night outdoors on May 30th and let’s get our kids home. You can register your participation and learn more about homelessness among LGBTQ2S youth by visiting http://www.OUTatNight.ca

For event submissions, email Michel Paré at queerwestinfo@gmail.com

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