Find intersectional, LGBTQ affirming and progressive events of all kinds in the The Real Mainstream Northern Illinois and Chicagoland Events Calendar. Events are color-coded:
April–May 2024
May 7 (1 event)
7:00 pm • Outspoken LGBTQ+ Storytelling • Chicago
May 7Celebrate "uniquely personal stories from a cross-section of the LGBTQ+ community" through this monthly event. Free admission; 21+ only. Explore being a storyteller here.
May 11 (1 event)
6:00 pm • Joliet Pride Network Youth Queer Prom: Under the Western Stars • Joliet
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May 11Dress for prom, for a Western, or "whatever makes you feel fabulous." Open to all youth who identify as LGBTQ+ and allies ages 12-20. Includes dinner. Coordinated by the Joliet Pride Network. Tickets are $10; order yours here.
#lgbtqpride2024
May 14 (1 event)
7:00 pm • Fetish, Erotic and Kink Figure Drawing • Chicago, Ill. and online
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May 14Studio drawing class featuring professional models, available in person or online. Classes are $10; pre-register here. With questions, email online@leatherarchives.org.
OnlineMay 18 (1 event)
7:00 pm • LGBTQ Prom by Asians & Friends Chicago • Chicago
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May 18This special night of festivities and fundraising includes a photo backdrop, Prom Court raffle and more. Featuring DJ Ron Sager. Suggested donation of $25 per person helps Asians & Friends Chicago build its 2024 Pride float.
#lgbtqpride2024
May 19 (1 event)
11:00 am • Plainfield Pridefest • Plainfield IL
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May 19Featuring vendor fair, live music, family zone, and more. Coordinated by Plainfield Pride.
#lgbtqpride2024
May 31 (1 event)
6:00 pm • Gear Night & The Museum • Chicago
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May 31Show off your gear (or you're also welcome to attend in street clothes), and meet other kinksters! Last Friday of each month, featuring music, food and drinks. Free admission. Adults only.