The Welcoming Committee: LGBTQ Takeovers

Foxwoods Takeover © The Welcoming Committee

Here’s how it works: on the first Friday of every month, The Welcoming Committee creates Guerrilla Queer Bar, a movement of hundreds of LGBTQ folks who descend upon an unsuspecting, otherwise “straight” bar or dance club and claim it as their own for one night, and one night only. In true surprise attack fashion, the venue is announced only a day before the takeover goes into action.

TWC is basically a gay traveling army, but one that fights for good vibes, inclusivity and an embracing community. And the weapon of choice? Dancing like it’s the end of the world. You can currently join the party in Atlanta, Boston, Chicago, Philadelphia, San Francisco and Washington D.C.; though at this rate, it wouldn’t be surprising to see The Welcoming Committee takeover other major cities.

TWC Annual Ski Trip © The Welcoming Committee

And takeovers aren’t exclusive to bars and clubs alone. TWC has been known to steal the scene at comedy clubs, museums, roller derby races, operas and sports arenas. On Nov. 15 in Boston, TWC will take over the Spartan Sprint at Fenway Park in Boston, and the third annual TWC Ski Trip invites members from Boston, Philly and D.C. to swarm Mount Snow in Vermont, Jan. 9–11, 2015. Check out their website to sign up for their newsletter and keep up to date on TWC plans in a city near you.