A Night Out and a Step Back in Time: Exploring Alberta's Evolving LGBTQ+ Nightlife

Alberta's LGBTQ+ scene has a rich and vibrant history, woven with threads of community, resilience, and a whole lot of fabulousness. From the pioneering days of hidden gatherings to the modern era of inclusive nightclubs, the story of gay bars in Alberta is a story of progress and celebration. So, are you ready to explore the evolution of Alberta's queer nightlife? Let's dive in!

Calgary's Colorful Past: From Club Carousel to The Parkside

Rewind to the early decades, and you'll find a landscape quite different from today's. The Club Carousel held court as Calgary's only gay club, a haven for a community seeking connection. However, as the scene evolved, commercial gay bars emerged, offering more glitz and glamour that drew the crowds.

The Parkside, named after a famous Toronto establishment, quickly became a landmark. Vance Campbell, an entrepreneur from Vancouver, partnered with local residents to launch what would soon become a vital social hub. But early regulations presented challenges. Imagine this: to serve alcohol, bars had to serve food. Rudy Labuhn, a former DJ and manager, remembers serving 50-cent burgers to all patrons! Talk about cheap eats! Furthermore, there were restrictions on playing recorded music - until a straight bar (of all places!), Lucifer, successfully challenged the rules, paving the way for the disco era in Calgary.

The Green Room and a Touch of Eartha Kitt

The Parkside expanded, adding "The Green Room," an upstairs bar that hosted unforgettable performances. The legendary drag queen Sandy St. Peters, a Calgary native who performed across Canada, was a regular fixture. Picture this: after a dazzling Saturday night show, Sandy would cross the street to greet churchgoers arriving for early Sunday service at the First Baptist Church - a true testament to her campy wit and charm! Oh, and did we mention that Eartha Kitt, the iconic singer and actress, once graced The Green Room with a highly acclaimed concert?

SW: A Memory Preserved

Another notable spot was SW, a gay lounge and disco initially open only on Friday and Saturday nights for men. Though the location is now a parking lot, its legacy lives on. The original neon sign has been lovingly preserved and now hangs proudly over the door of The Backlot Bar on 10th Ave - a tangible link to Calgary's queer history. It's a powerful reminder of how far things have come.

Edmonton's Thriving Scene: Evolution Wonderlounge and Beyond

Moving north to Edmonton, the contemporary LGBTQ+ scene is anchored by Evolution Wonderlounge. As the city's primary dedicated LGBTQ+ bar, Evolution provides an unparalleled night out for the 2SLGBTQ+ community all year round. They offer weekly drag shows, monthly burlesque nights, making it the perfect destination for Pride celebrations.

But the good news doesn't end there! As of this summer, Edmonton boasts two gay bars for the first time in nearly a decade, with a new location called Evo opening its doors. This exciting development signifies the growing vibrancy and inclusivity of Edmonton's queer community.

Evo: A New Chapter for Edmonton's LGBTQ+ Scene

The new Evo location, formerly Reign Premium Lounge and Kitchen, offers an expanded experience. With a full kitchen, earlier opening hours, and new programming, it caters to a diverse range of tastes. Co-owner Rob Browatzke emphasizes the excitement within the community about this expansion, a testament to the growing demand for safe and celebratory spaces. However, he acknowledges that vandalism has been a recurring issue for Evolution Wonderlounge, highlighting the ongoing need for vigilance and community support.

Twisted Element: Promoting Equality in Calgary

Calgary's Twisted Element plays a crucial role in promoting equality by celebrating diversity. They strive to provide a safer space for the city's LGBTQ+ community, offering a unique nightlife experience that embraces inclusivity and acceptance.

The Evolution Continues: More Than Just Bars

The story of gay bars in Alberta is more than just a tale of nightlife; it's a reflection of social progress, community building, and the ongoing fight for equality. From the discreet gatherings of the past to the vibrant and inclusive spaces of today, Alberta's LGBTQ+ scene has come a long way. These spaces provide a safe place for all and are a welcome addition to the province.

So, what does the future hold? Only time will tell. But one thing is certain: Alberta's LGBTQ+ community will continue to create spaces for connection, celebration, and the pursuit of a more inclusive world.