Beyond the Rainbow: A Look at Calgary and Edmonton's Evolving Gay Bar Scene
Remember the days when finding your tribe meant venturing into a dimly lit, exclusively gay bar? Stepping inside was like entering a secret world, a sanctuary where you could finally be yourself. I remember one night, my well-meaning straight friends, bless their hearts, decided to drag me out from my computer screen and introduce me to Calgary's gay bar scene. It was an eye-opening experience, a stark contrast to the online world I was accustomed to.
A History Etched in Neon: Iconic Gay Bars of Yesterday
Calgary and Edmonton's gay bar landscape has seen its fair share of transformations. Names like Detours (formerly Dicks, and beside the Empire), Arena, Boyztown Metro, and the Rekroom might ring a bell for some. Arena, in particular, boasted a drag stage that was the envy of Alberta, with three levels offering prime viewing. Remember the Loading Dock at Detours? It was *the* spot for happy hour. Sadly, many of these vibrant spaces are now just memories, replaced by new ventures or simply fading away.
From Dance Floors to Drag Shows: The Heart of the Community
Boyztown Metro and the Rekroom were particularly special. Back then, finding your niche was key, and these bars catered specifically to the bear and rough-and-tumble crowd, along with transgender individuals, drag queens, and cross-dressers. They carved out a space where people could express themselves freely. It's hard to overstate the importance of these spaces, providing a sense of belonging and acceptance that was often absent elsewhere.
Speaking of acceptance, one of my proudest moments was taking my mom to a gay bar to meet my friends. I was nervous, unsure how she'd react. But witnessing her open her mind and connect with them on a human level? That was priceless.
Edmonton's Gems: The Roost, Boots, and Beyond
Venturing north to Edmonton revealed even more treasures. The Roost, with its unique deli entrance, and Boots, a long-standing institution hosting events for the bears, leather community, and drag enthusiasts, were staples of the scene. And who could forget Prism Bar, potentially the last lesbian bar in Canada?
The Evolution Continues: Change is the Only Constant
The evolution of Edmonton's gay bar scene is a testament to the community's resilience. When Boots closed, the owners of Prism Bar cleverly rebranded and moved into the space as the Junction. And let's not forget Evolution Wonderlounge, a venue that continues to thrive, hosting drag shows and even video interviews with adult film stars. It is now celebrating its fourth anniversary.
Why Did They Go? The Shifting Sands of the Gay Bar Scene
So, what caused this shift? Several factors contributed to the changing landscape. Economic downturns, market corrections, and plain old lack of demand played a role. Rising rents forced some bars to close their doors, while others simply failed to adapt to the evolving tastes of the community.
Consider this: in the past, all you needed was a dark room, some dance music, and people would flock in. But times have changed, haven't they?
The Digital Revolution: Apps, Websites, and the New Social Landscape
The rise of online dating and social networking platforms like Grindr, Scruff, and Growlr has undeniably impacted the traditional gay bar scene. Now, finding a connection is as easy as swiping right, regardless of location. Even straight bars are becoming more inclusive, welcoming the LGBTQ+ community with open arms.
These days, it's not uncommon to find someone from the community on apps like Squirt, or at a straight bar, making the traditional haven of gay bars less of a necessity. The younger generations are coming out earlier and feeling more accepted by their peers, reducing the need for a separate space to express themselves.
A Divided Community: Nostalgia vs. Integration
There's a debate within the LGBTQ+ community about whether the decline of gay bars is a loss or a sign of progress. Some yearn for those dedicated spaces, while others embrace the increasing integration and acceptance in mainstream society. The decrease in gay magazines across Canada further highlights this shift, with mainstream media covering LGBTQ+ issues more frequently.
The Torch is Passed: New Owners, Fresh Perspectives
While some bars closed, others found new life through ownership changes. The Texas Lounge, a fixture for nearly three decades, was revitalized by new owners who also improved its attached bathhouse, Goliaths. The Backlot underwent extensive renovations under new management, creating a vibrant outdoor patio. Twisted Element, as of February 1st, has new owners taking a hands-off approach, entrusting the day-to-day operations to the bar manager, Keon Brawn.
These changes are exciting! What will Calgary's gay bar scene look like in the next five to ten years?
Looking Ahead: The Future of Community Spaces
The gay bar scene has always been more than just a place to grab a drink; it's been a vital hub for community, connection, and self-discovery. As the landscape continues to evolve, it's crucial to find new ways to foster these connections, whether it's through online platforms, inclusive mainstream venues, or the reimagining of traditional gay bars. The future is uncertain, but one thing remains clear: the need for community and belonging will always be a fundamental human desire.
To learn more about the rich history of Calgary's gay bars, be sure to check out the GayCalgary website for articles featuring interviews with past and present bar owners.