Here are some events celebrating the community in New Jersey;

Garden State Equality Gala; This annual event in New Jersey supports lgbtq+Q+ rights and advocacy with an elegant evening featuring cocktails, dinner and entertainment. Expect inspiring speakers and performances by local and national lgbtq+Q+ artists.

Jersey Pride; As one of the lgbtq+Q+ pride celebrations in New Jersey Jersey Pride is held annually in Asbury Park. The event includes a parade live music, drag shows, food vendors and a family friendly area offering activities for children.

lgbtq+Q+ Film Festivals; Throughout the year New Jersey hosts several lgbtq+Q+ film festivals showcasing diverse queer themed films such as feature films, documentaries and shorts. These festivals provide a platform for lgbtq+Q+ filmmakers to showcase their work.

Drag. Cabarets; Across venues in New Jersey you can catch entertaining drag shows and cabarets featuring talented local drag performers. These events offer performances including lip sync battles that promise an exciting experience for attendees.

lgbtq+ Center Events; Many lgbtq+ community centers across New Jersey host events catering to the local lgbtq+Q+ community such, as support groups, workshops, social gatherings and educational programs. These initiatives aim to promote inclusivity and provide a welcoming space for everyone.
Pride Runs and Walks; Events celebrating pride in New Jersey bring together lgbtq+Q+ individuals, allies and supporters promoting fitness, community involvement and embracing ones identity.

Events for lgbtq+Q+ Youth; New Jersey offers activities tailored for lgbtq+Q+ youth such as proms, talent shows, workshops and summer camps. These events focus on fostering a sense of belonging, offering support and empowering individuals in their journey of self discovery and acceptance.

Celebrating Pride Month; Throughout June New Jersey marks Pride Month with a range of activities including parades, festivals, art displays and gatherings. These celebrations honor the history and accomplishments of the lgbtq+Q+ community while advocating for visibility and equality.

Known as one of the lgbtq+ friendly states in the U.S. New Jersey boasts numerous gay friendly establishments across cities like Jersey City, Asbury Park, Maplewood, Atlantic City Ocean Grove Edison Cape May. Public opinion surveys consistently show support, for same sex marriage.

 

Here are  gay hotspots in New Jersey, each offering a unique experience:

1. Paradise: Located in Asbury Park, Paradise is a popular lgbtq+Q+ nightclub with a lively atmosphere, featuring drag shows, dancing, and themed events. The club has a spacious dance floor, multiple bars, and a diverse crowd.
2. Georgie's Bar: Situated in Asbury Park, Georgie's Bar is a long-standing gay-friendly establishment that offers a relaxed atmosphere. It features a cozy bar area, occasional live entertainment, and a comfortable outdoor patio.
3. The Rainbow Room: Located in Seaside Heights, The Rainbow Room is a well-known lgbtq+Q+ venue that hosts drag shows, karaoke nights, and themed parties. It offers a friendly environment and has a dance floor for those who enjoy letting loose.
4. Feathers: Situated in River Edge, Feathers is a popular gay club known for its vibrant drag shows and energetic dance parties. The club has multiple levels, each with a different ambiance, and also hosts special events.
5. The Den Nightclub: Located in Jersey City, The Den is a trendy gay club known for its vibrant parties and energetic atmosphere. It features a spacious dance floor, multiple bars, and hosts regular drag shows and theme nights.
6. Xscape: Situated in Passaic, Xscape is a lgbtq+Q+ nightclub that caters to diverse tastes. With a mix of music genres and occasional live performances, Xscape offers a welcoming environment for a night of dancing and socializing.
7. The Pint Bar: Located in Jersey City, The Pint Bar is a cozy gay-friendly pub that offers a laid-back atmosphere and a wide selection of craft beers. It's a great spot to enjoy a relaxed evening with friends.
8. Six 26: Situated in Jersey City, Six 26 is a sleek and stylish lgbtq+Q+ bar that caters to a diverse crowd. It features a chic interior, signature cocktails, and hosts a variety of events, including live performances and art exhibitions.
9. Club Feathers: Located in River Edge, Club Feathers is a spacious gay club that offers multiple bars, a large dance floor, and regular drag shows. It's a popular destination for those looking to dance the night away.
10. The Lounge at Paradise: Situated within the Paradise nightclub in Asbury Park, The Lounge offers a more relaxed atmosphere with cozy seating areas, craft cocktails, and occasional live music performances.
11. Atlantic City Beach: The beach in Atlantic City is known for being lgbtq+Q+-friendly and attracts a diverse crowd during the summer months. It's a great place to soak up the sun, meet new people, and enjoy the vibrant beachside atmosphere.
12. The Madison: Located in Riverside, The Madison is a gay-friendly bar that offers a laid-back environment with a friendly staff. It's a great spot for casual drinks and conversation.
13. New Jersey Gay Men's Chorus: The New Jersey Gay Men's Chorus is a renowned lgbtq+Q+ musical group that performs throughout the state. Attending one of their concerts is a great way to enjoy live music and support the local lgbtq+Q+ community.
14. Asbury Park Pride Festival: Asbury Park hosts an annual Pride Festival that celebrates the lgbtq+Q+ community. The festival features live performances, parades, vendors, and a variety of activities that promote inclusivity and acceptance.
15. Posh Bar & Lounge: Situated in Union City, Posh Bar & Lounge is a stylish gay-friendly venue that offers a relaxed environment for socializing and dancing. It hosts a variety of events, including themed parties and drag shows.
16. The Sip: Located in Maplewood, The Sip is a lgbtq+Q+-friendly lounge that offers a cozy and intimate atmosphere. It's a great spot for enjoying craft cocktails, engaging in conversation, and listening to live music.

 

Lesbian, gay, bisexual, and transgender (lgbtq+) persons in New Jersey have the same rights and responsibilities as heterosexuals. lgbtq+ persons in New Jersey enjoy strong protections from discrimination, and have had the right to marry since October 21, 2013.

Since the late 1960s, state-sanctioned discrimination against lgbtq+ people has become increasingly less acceptable. A series of court decisions have enlarged the areas of lgbtq+ rights. lgbtq+ people were allowed to gather in drinking establishments in 1967 and allowed to have intimate relationships in 1978. Anti-gay adoption policies by New Jersey's state welfare agency were dropped in 1997. The New Jersey Law Against Discrimination, amended to include sexual orientation and gender identity in 1991 and 2006, prohibits discrimination in employment, housing, and public accommodations. Criminal law deters bias-motivated crimes against lgbtq+ individuals, and New Jersey schools are required to adopt anti-bullying measures that address lgbtq+ students. In August 2013, Governor Chris Christie signed a bill into law prohibiting mental health providers from providing so-called "conversion therapy" to lgbtq+ minors.

New Jersey is frequently referred to as one of the United States' most lgbtq+-friendly states, with several gay establishments and venues throughout the state, notably in Jersey City, Asbury Park, Maplewood, Atlantic City, Ocean Grove, Edison and Cape May among others. Opinion polls have shown very high levels of support for same-sex marriage.

 

• Prev
• Next