Our Community USA - Twin Cities Vol 5

THE PREMIER LGBTQ BUSINESS & SERVICE DIRECTORY

TWIN CITIES Vol. 5

SCAN QR CODE TO VIEW THIS ISSUE ONLINE Bar Guide & Event Schedule

TABLE OF CON TENT S

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ABOUT TWIN CITIES

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RESTAURANT GUIDE

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EVENTS SCHEDULE

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BAR GUIDE

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LGBTQ ORGS & ATTRACTIONS

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BUSINESS DIRECTORY

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ABOUT TWIN CITIES LGBTQ Twin Cities Minneapolis and its nearby neighbor St. Paul are getting the recognition they deserve, together, as a mini gay mecca. Historically it was one of the first to adopt bans on anti-gay discrimination, and the legacy has born fruit, so to speak, in a burgeoning gay scene.

Nestled along the banks of the Mississippi River, there isn’t a specifically gay neighborhood here but you’ll find gay and lesbian folk scattered throughout. Queer nightlife is concentrated in the downtown area. And be sure to get a car you’ll need one to get around.

More than 18 million visitors find their way to the Twin Cities of Minneapolis and Saint Paul every year, drawn by a place that touts outdoor fun as much as culture and cuisine. The metro area has plenty of green space, and there is never a shortage of things to see and do.

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Excerpt from gaycities.com

RESTAURANT GUI DE Wilde Roast Cafe A tribute to Oscar—the original Dandy 65 Main Street SE, Minneapolis, MN

Red Stag Supperclub Fresh food and live music nightly 509 1st Avenue NE, Minneapolis, MN

Hell’s Kitchen If Hell was staffed by cheeky servers carrying Bloody Marys...

80 South 9th Street, Minneapolis, MN

Barbette Good food in a casual, eclectic, and comfortable atmosphere 1600 West Lake Street, Minneapolis, MN

Loring Kitchen & Bar Contemporary cuisine in a comfortable and inviting atmosphere 1359 Willow Street, Minneapolis, MN

Global Market Your one-stop shop for global goods 920 E. Lake Street, Minnapolis, MN Muffin Top Cafe Great morning stop 1424 Nicollet Avenue, Minneapolis, MN

Bryant Lake Bowl Bowl, baby, bowl 810 W Lake Street, Minneapolis, MN

The Newsroom A celebration of American tradition 990 Nicollet Mall, Minneapolis, MN

Brasa Savory, bargain menu 600 E. Hennepin Avenue, Minneapolis, MN

Black Forest Inn Family-owned European-style restaurant 1 East 26th Street, Minneapolis, MN

Dunn Brothers Coffee Popular local coffee chain 3348 Hennepin Avenue, Minneapolis, MN

Toast Wine Bar & Cafe Trendy wine bar and cafe 415 North 1st Street, Minneapolis, MN

Blue Moon Cafe Lesbian-friendly neighborhood cafe 3822 E Lake Street, Minneapolis, MN

Galactic Pizza Galactically good 2917 Lyndale Avenue S., Minneapolis, MN

Pizza Luce Pizza delights 119 N 4th Street, Minneapolis, MN

It’s Greek to Me Is it Greek to you? Because It’s Greek to Me! 626 West Lake Street, Minneapolis, MN

Common Roots Cafe Eat well!

2558 Lyndale Avenue S, Minneapolis, MN

Ngon Vietnamese Bistro Fresh twist to Vietnamese cuisine 799 University Avenue, St. Paul, MN

Uptown Cafeteria and Support Group Great food and an unforgettable atmosphere 3001 Hennepin Avenue, Minneapolis, MN

The Bulldog Lowertown Casual local hangout 237 6th Street E, St. Paul, MN

Cafe Latte Coffee shop and cafeteria for the Grand Avenue yuppie crowd 850 Grand Avenue, St. Paul, MN

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2020 EVENT SCH E DULE orchestral works, Shen Yun opens a portal to a civilization of enchanting beauty and enlightening wisdom.

Tickets and details at ordway.org.

FEBRUARY FEB 14-16

CON OF THE NORTH

FEB 22 3:00PM

Featuring your favorite tabletop role-playing games. Numerous board games, miniatures, and card game events and tournaments. Learn more at conofthenorth.org.

WINTER TEQUILA TASTING FEST From Blanco, Reposado, Anejo or even Mezcal… your taste buds will be in heaven as you sample dozens of amazing tequila & agave varieties.

Details at eventbrite.com.

FEB 15

SUDAKA FEST

FEB 22 3:00PM

A Tropical and Afro-Indigenous Urban Music Festival honoring Los De Arriba, Chico Chavez Orchestra, and Alma Andina’s collective South American roots.

WINTER BEER DABBLER

The biggest outdoor beer festival in Minnesota. With unlimited samples of the nation’s best craft beer, great live music, and fun activities, the Winter Beer Dabbler is a true celebration of winter in Minnesota. Details at eaganmn.com.

A great celebration full of rhythm, color, and flavor - they invite you to enjoy their culture. Come dance to the music and art with these three tremendous bands from the Twin Cities! Learn more at eventbrite.com.

FEB 27 7:00PM

BOUQUESTS: WINE, BEER, FOOD With 12 wine stations, more than 10 restaurant options and a Beer Garden arrayed through the Visitor Center and the Marjorie McNeely Conservatory, Bouquets is more than a food, beer and wine celebration - it is a showcase for Como’s renowned horticultural collections. Details at exploreminnesota.com.

FEB 16 12:00PM BALKAN FESTIVAL

This event brings together the music, dance, language, foods, costume, and arts & craft traditions of seven cultures hailing from the Balkan region of Eastern Europe. Learn more at exploreminnesota.com.

FEB 28 - MAR 1

FEB 20

MARSCON 2020

SHEN YUN

MarsCon is a fan-run science fiction convention for all ages held every March in the Twin Cities area. At MarsCon you’ll find panel discussions, gaming, parties, guest of honor presentations, music of many kinds, our art show, film/anime room, science room, dealers room, charity auction, and masquerade. The Dementia track is virtually a con in itself, and attracts a nation-wide audience. Details at twincitiesgeek.com.

Shen Yun’s unique artistic vision expands theatrical experience into a multi-dimensional, inspiring journey through one of humanity’s greatest treasures—the five millennia of traditional Chinese culture.

This epic production immerses you in stories reaching back to the most distant past. You’ll explore realms even beyond our visible world. Featuring one of the world’s oldest art forms—classical Chinese dance—along with patented scenographical effects and all-original

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BAR GU ID E Gay 90s Mega-mall of dance clubs Downtown Minneapolis 408 Hennepin Avenue Minneapolis, MN

The Town House Bar Neighborhood bar with something different every night 1415 University Ave W St. Paul, MN

The Saloon Very popular dance spot Downtown Minneapolis 830 Hennepin Avenue Minneapolis, MN

EagleBOLT Bar Downtown video bar next to the Eagle Downtown Minneapolis 513 Washington Ave S Minneapolis, MN

19 Bar Friendly & casual, classic neighborhood bar Loring Park 19 W 15th Street Minneapolis, MN

Brass Rail Newly Remodeled Male Strip Club Downtown Minneapolis 422 Hennepin Avenue Minneapolis, MN

Minneapolis Eagle Leather Part of the Bolt/ Underground/Eagle complex Downtown Minneapolis 515 Washington Ave S Minneapolis, MN

Ground Zero Nightclub “Anything goes here!�

Northeast Minneapolis 15 4th St NE Minneapolis, MN

Lush Food Bar Embrace the lush within St. Anthony Main 990 Central Avenue NE Minneapolis, MN Camp Bar Claims BIGGEST drinks in town 490 Robert St N St Paul, MN

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2020 EVENT SCH E DULE of Japanese animation, manga (comic), video games and culture. Learn more at animecons.com.

MARCH MAR 7-8

FOOD & WINE EXPERIENCE

APR 10-12

Take a culinary adventure with unique varietals of local, regional and national wines, sample mouth-watering food from award-winning culinarians, taste specialty beers and spirits, and peruse locally crafted gifts. Visit eventbrite.com.

MINICON

Expect to find a full slate of programming, costuming, films, gaming, a teen lounge, an art show, dealers, kids’ programming, a science room, filk and folk music, a consuite and bar, room parties, and various special events. Visit 10times.com.

MAR 14

LUCKY’S ST. PATRICK’S DAY CRAWL

APR 18

Get lucky with your friends on the biggest St. Patrick’s Day party of the year! Your ticket includes 1-2 complimentary drinks & items, custom lucky badge and lanyard, drink specials at select locations, free cover with out lucky badge, pro photographer, exclusive access to our crawl map and a $500 costume contest. Learn more at eventbrite.com.

SPRING JAM

Spring Jam™ is a celebration that brings the U of M together for an over‑the‑top festival experience.

Complete with carnival rides, live music, and awesome food, Spring Jam™ is the perfect welcome party for warm weather! Visit springjam.umn.edu.

APR 18-19 10:00AM GREEKCRAFT EXPO

MAR 27-29

GeekCraft Expo is a collection of curated, geek-themed handmade markets held throughout the year in multiple cities located across the United States. GeekCraft Expo events are free to the public (though pre-registration is required) and family-friendly, with free crafting activities provided for children.

Cosplay is highly encouraged. Learn more at geekcraftexpo.com.

SPRING FESTIVAL ARTS & CRAFTS Hundreds of the nation’s finest artists and crafters display and sell their handcrafted works. Our Arts & Crafts tour of shows are consistently ranked in the Top 100 Shows in the Country by Sunshine Artist Magazine. Visit 10times. com for details.

MAR 28 7:00PM

APR 23-26

RARE BEER FEST

The Northern Lights Rare Beer Fest features rare, vintage and specialty one-off beers from 30 select craft breweries from across the United States, including 10 here from Minnesota. Visit rarebeerfest.com.

ART IN BLOOM

Explore over 160 interpretations of art by volunteer floral artists. Enjoy stunning commercial florist displays.

Take a docent-led tour. Browse the Art in Bloom Gift Shop. Free admission, donations welcome. Visit artsmia.org.

APRIL

APR 25 12:00PM-7:00PM

APR 3-5

CRAFT BEER FEST

ANIME DETOUR

The Minnesota Craft Beer Festival is an epic tasting session at the Minneapolis Convention Center, where 100+

Anime Detour is a non-profit anime and media convention run by fans for fans

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2020 EVENT SCH E DULE MAY 9

breweries will participate in pouring some of their best brews. Featuring limited-release beers, world-class breweries, unlimited pours, and live music. Visit eventbrite.com.

BEER RUN

Weave through the surrounding area at whatever pace you like, no matter what there’s a beer waiting for you at the finish line! Complete details at eventbrite.com.

APR 25

I LOVE THE 90S BAR CRAWL

Alright stop, collaborate and listen!!

The I Love the 90’s Bash is coming back to Minneapolis Saturday April 25th!

We’re lacing up our high tops, putting on our fanny packs and gettin’ jiggy with it to the best music of the 90’s! Visit eventbrite.com.

MAY 16-17

APR 30 - MAY 3

MAY 22-24

COMICON MN

MSP Fall Con will display products like comic books, media-based products, cosplay, to that of artistic products and services associated with the field. Visit 10times.com.

FESTIVAL OF NATIONS

ANIMINNEAPOLIS

A name as grand as the “Festival of Nations” demands a big-time event.

Saint Paul delivers with the nation’s very largest multicultural event at the Saint Paul River Center. Over a hundred ethnic groups contribute dancers, cuisine, music, crafts, and folklore to this jam-packed four-day event. This is truly a festival that celebrates the diversity of America. Visit festivalofnations.com.

Primarily anime convention with some elements of scifi and comic convention.

Over three days you can cosplay (optional), attend big events like concerts/dances/contests, play video games, and buy anime stuff. Because you’ll be doing this among thousands of other anime fans, you’re likely to meet a few cool people who like the same things and enjoy them together.

MAY

JUNE

MAY 2 10:30AM-6:00PM

JUN 1

BLOODY MARY FESTIVAL

UPTOWN FOOD TRUCK FEST

Your ticket Includes over 2 hours enjoying the Twin Cities most delicious Bloody Marys, created by the finest bars & restaurants in Minnesota. Also, includes tastings from local food & beverage artisans, live music, more!

Find us on Facebook for details.

One of the Twin Cities most popular & delicious free events, featuring food, beer, live music and activities. Visit uptownfoodtruckfestival.com.

JUN 6

ST. ANTHONY PARK ARTS FEST

The festival features 70+ juried artists as well as a community area, plant sale, one of the best used book sales in the metro area, art activities for the whole family, good food and great music. The festival attracts high quality artists from across the region. Visit 10times.com.

MAY 2-3 1:00PM GRILLFEST

Sample the best burgers, foods, treats, beer, bloody Marys, summer wines and more - all included in your ticket.

Purchase specially priced grills and grilling accessories and locally made products from artisans. Learn more at eventbrite.com.

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2020 EVENT SCH E DULE JUN 13

Community. This event is FREE! Visit tcpride.org.

This outdoor craft beer festival will feature sampling from over 100 breweries in a commemorative tasting glass, live music on two stages, tasty food, a silent auction benefiting the YMCA of St. Paul, and the fun atmosphere of MN State Fairgrounds.

Visit 10times.com.

JUN 28 11:00AM

JUN 13

JUL 1

SUMMER BEER FEST

LGBTQ PRIDE PARADE

This free event is pending route due to contruction. Visit tcpride.org for updates and schedules.

JULY

TWIN CITIES MAC & CHEESE FEST

MARKETFEST

Local chefs and restaurants are cooking up their most creative and delicious mac & cheese while competing for the best mac in town. Be there to sample everything for yourself and cast your vote. Find us on Facebook.

free summer festival in beautiful downtown White Bear Lake. It continues to attract locals and visitors who are interested in a lively, family friendly atmosphere. Learn more at marketfestwbl.com.

JUN 13

JUL 4 6:00PM-10:00PM RED, WHITE AND BOOM

THE ODDITIES & CURIOSITIES EXPO

The annual event attracts crowds to sites along the downtown Minneapolis riverfront, and features live music on two stages, great food, fun activities for the whole family, and the grand finale – fireworks! Find us on Facebook.

Showcases hand selected vendors, dealers, artists and small businesses from all over the country with all things weird. You’ll find items such as: taxidermy, preserved specimens, original artwork, horror/halloween inspired pieces, antiques, handcrafted oddities, quack medical devices, clothing, jewelry, skulls/bones, funeral collectibles & much more.

JUL 13

DRAGON FESTIVAL

Minnesota comes alive with two days of colorful, traditional dances and music to showcase the performance arts of Asia.

Visit gowherewhen.com.

We truly have something weird for everyone at our events. Learn more at odditiesandcuriositiesexpo.com.

JUL 13

LAKEFRONT MUSIC FEST

Two‑day outdoor music festival featuring Rock and Country Music. Info at evensi.com.

JUN 20

STONE ARCH BRIDGE FEST

Annual Stone Arch Bridge Festival is a platform for artists to sell, share inspiration and receive recognition for their fine arts and crafts. Visit midwestartfairs.com.

JUL 25-26

LORING PARK ART FESTIVAL

Will display products like handmade artwork. The wildflowers and stunning gardens of Loring Park create an idyllic setting the art, food, music, and entertainment. Details at 10times.com.

JUN 27-28

TWIN CITIES PRIDE FESTIVAL The Twin Cities Pride Festival is a CELEBRATION of the LGBTQ+

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LGBTQ COM MU NI TY ORGANIZATIONS & ATTRACTIONS

OutFront Minnesota “Leading Minnesota to LGBT equality” 310 38th Street East, Minneapolis, MN

North Star Gay Rodeo Association Minnesota’s gay rodeo PO Box 11199, St. Paul, MN

North Country Bears Bears know how to have fun www.ncbears.com

The Atons of Minneapolis Gay men’s leather/levi social club PO Box 580517, Minneapolis, MN

Minneapolis Movie Bears Furry Movie Fun Buds Usually Southdale AMC $5.00 movies, Richfield, MN

Out to Brunch Social activities for lesbians PO Box 582682 , Minneapolis, MN Naked Minnesota Twin Cities nudist group Minneapolis, MN

Minnesota AIDS Project Pride Alive Program Working to stop the spread of HIV and STDs 400 Park Ave, Minneapolis, MN

Gay and Lesbian Amateur Sports Society Amateur sporting events MN Transgender Health Coalition Improving healthcare access PO Box 582315 , Minneapolis, MN

Man2Man Free sexual health seminars University Of Minnesota, Minneapolis, MN

Whole Woman’s Health A reproductive health clinic that’s changing the world, one woman at a time.

33 South 5th Street , Minneapolis, MN

Twin Cities Men’s Center For all men 3249 Hennepin Ave, Minneapolis, MN Twin Cities Goodtime Softball League Hard Softball PO Box 580264, Minneapolis, MN

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BUSINESS D IRECTO RY ACCOUNTING SERVICES Myslajek Kemp & Spencer Ltd.......................23

MED SPA Kovanda Plastic Surgery................................20

ARCHITECTURE City Desk Studio.............................................. 5

MEDIATION Erickson Mediation Institute.........................23

AUTO DEALERSHIP Inver Grove Ford Lincoln................................19

PLASTIC SURGERY Kovanda Plastic Surgery................................20

CHILD CARE Kinderberry Hill.............................................19

PLUMBING Muska Plumbing LLC.....................................11

CREDIT UNION Royal Credit Union...................................12-13

REAL ESTATE Chuck Lieber Bridge Realty.......... back inside cover Tina Angell- Coldwell Banker Burnet............... 3

DENTIST East Dental ....................................................10

RETIREMENT PLANNING Sterling Retirement Resources......................15

FAMILY LAW M. Sue Wilson Law Offices............................... 7 Zajac Law Firm...............................................10

ROOFING CONTRACTOR Sela Roofing and Remodeling......................10

FINANCIAL ADVISOR Cody Uhrhammer - Edward Jones.................19

SENIOR LIVING Lyngblomsten................................................15

FINANCIAL ADVISOR Morgan Owens - Edward Jones....................... 9 Sterling Retirement Resources......................15

SENIOR OUTREACH & CAREGIVER SERVICES Senior Community Services..........................11

FURNITURE Room & Board................................................. 1

SIDING CONTRACTOR Twin Cities Siding Professionals........... back cover

HOME DÉCOR Room & Board................................................. 1

WINDOW CONTRACTOR

Twin Cities Siding Professionals........... back cover

HOTEL Aloft Minneapolis......................... front inside cover HVAC PLUMBING Krinkie’s Heat................................................21 IN HOME CARE The Seniors’ Friend........................................22

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