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Whether you're looking for groundbreaking theater or a sports game with an accepting crowd, there are tons of great LGBT events happening all over the city this summer. These are five of the best.
RECOMMENDED: Full guide to things to do in the summer in NYC
Rainbow Fashion Week
Take in eight days of queer fashion shows, with daily themed runways like “Rainbow Pets,” on which sharply dressed models and dogs strut their stuff, and events like Hair du Soleil, a showcase of the top ’do designers in town. Plus, the festivities focus on sustainability, with a goal to be the first carbon-neutral week of its kind, so you can feel good about being trendy. Various locations (212-726-2651, rainbowfashionweek.com). June 17–24; $16.02–$317.44.
Fresh Fruit Festival
Whether you’re more into apples or oranges, you’ll find something to suit your palate at this alt-friendly arts bonanza celebrating LGBTQ creativity. This year’s full lineup is yet to be announced, but last year’s included slam poetry, a reimagining of King Lear in which the protagonist suffers from Alzheimer’s, a dimly lit performance of erotic cabaret and an evening of one-act plays. Go on, take a bite. The Wild Project Theater, 193 E 3rd St (freshfruitfestival.com). July 11–24; schedule and prices TBA.
Broadway Bares: On Demand
The chorus boys and girls of the Great White Way give a big nod to the dancers of much smaller stages at this annual dance-and-strip benefit for Broadway Cares/Equity Fights AIDS. The background players head to the forefront with scandalous skits, impeccable dance routines and aerial feats—and, of course, a heavy dose of burlesque and bare skin. Expect some cameos from legends (past guests have included Allison Janney, Sutton Foster and Harvey Fierstein). Hammerstein Ballroom, 311 W 34th St (212-840-0770, broadwaybares.com). June 19 at 9:30pm, midnight; $50–$195, VIP $295.
The Latex Ball
Ballroom traditions come alive at this 26th annual benefit for Gay Men’s Health Crisis, an advocacy organization for AIDS prevention and care. The night, themed “Viva La Glam,”commemorates those lost to the virus—as well as a much brighter, AIDS-free future—with extravagant performance competitions. Contestants can vogue their way to cash prizes in categories like “Editorial Deluxe” and “Glam Rock Role Models.” Don’t even think about waiting till the night before to plan your outfit. Terminal 5, 610 W 56 St (212-367-1000, gmhc.org). July 30 8pm–4am; price TBA.
Mets LGBT Pride Night
The Mets roll out their first-ever Pride night, and a portion of each ticket sold benefits the nonprofit LGBT Network to combat bullying. Watch the game against the San Diego Padres, chow down on sweet stadium food (Shake Shack, anyone?), and stick around for the free postgame concert. David Wright is always a plus too. Citi Field, Roosevelt Ave at 126th St, Queens (m.mets.mlb.com). Aug 13 at 7:10pm; $35–$85.