Next Event Info

Hey boys-

Get info on our next event, photos from the last one, and everything in between by joining our mailing list or our Facebook group!

Join The BGCC on Facebook. (You'll need to sign in first.)

Join our mailing list.

xoxo,
-Your Hosts

Next Event: February 11th, 2010

Hey Boys-

It's February, it's freezing... and we've got a BGCC with just what you need! Come in from the Cold for some hot drinks and hot men at a hot new place!

We have a new River North location all picked out, so keep an eye on your inbox for the event invite with the details. This one is going to go all the way, and will not disappoint!

Come in from the Cold on February 11th, 5:30 - 8:30 pm. Watch your inbox for details soon!

Next Event: January 14th, 2010

Hello boys! Are you ready to bring on 2010? Then join us to ring it in and bring it on!

WHAT: The "Ring It In And Bring It On" Happy Hour!

WHEN: Thursday, January 14th, 2010, 5:30 - 8:30 pm

WHERE: Gibson's, 1028 N. Rush St.

See you there!

November's Red Hot Photos Posted!

Our latest photos from the Red Hot Happy Hour at Crimson are now available! Check them out!

We don't yet have our next event scheduled -- we're still searching for the perfect January location! Stay tuned...

Red Hot Happy Hour at Crimson Lounge

The BGCC is going to get you warmed up for the holiday season with the Red Hot Happy Hour this Thursday! Join us and all your BGCC friends at Crimson Lounge for fabulous cocktails and complimentary hors d'oeuvres.

WHAT: The Red Hot Happy Hour

WHEN: Thursday, November 12, 2009, 5:30 - 8:30 pm

WHERE: Crimson Lounge

ADDRESS: 333 N. Dearborn St. - next door to the House of Blues

DRINK SPECIAL: We will have special price on Crimson's special martinis and cocktails.

BENEFICIARY: Equality Illinois. (Remember, 100% of your $10 donation at the door goes directly to Equality Illinois)

Heart of Gold (Coast) Photos!

The Gold Coast location was fabulous for everyone who braved the Fall wind and rain to join us at Frankie's Fifth Floor last Thursday!

Through your donations and raffle ticket purchases, the BGCC event provided nearly $2,000 for Howard Brown! Thanks to everyone for their support!

Check out the photos online!

Details for 10/15 "Heart of Gold (Coast)" Happy Hour

WHAT: The Heart of Gold (Coast) Happy Hour

WHEN: Thursday, October 15, 2009, 5:30 - 8:30 pm

WHERE: Frankie's Fifth Floor Pizzeria (description below)

ADDRESS: 900 N Michigan Ave, 5th Floor (see below for transportation info)

DRINK SPECIAL: We will have fabulous martini specials!

FOOD: There will be a selection of Frankie's signature wood oven pizza, and other delicious treats from Frankie's menu!

BENEFICIARY: Howard Brown

MINIMUM DONATION: $10, with 100% going to our beneficiary.

MORE...
The BGCC returns Thursday October 15 to help you find a man with a heart of gold. And where do you find someone like that? The Gold Coast, of course! Join all your BGCC friends for the Heart of Gold (Coast) Happy Hour at Frankie's Fifth Floor Pizzeria to see what (and who) you may find.

Frankie's is in the heart of the Gold Coast and one of its most glamorous signature structures, the Bloomingdales building. Enjoy the view onto Michigan Avenue from the three story circular window while you sip a special martini or taste Frankie's complimentary gourmet wood stone pizzas and other delicious treats.

Season 11 Events

Our calendar for Season 11 is a work in progress and we've been bad about keeping this up to date. The best thing to do is to join The BGCC group on Facebook, check back soon, or get on the mailing list for updates!

The Heart of Gold (Coast) Happy Hour

Hello Boys!

The BGCC returns Thursday October 15 to help you find a man with a heart of gold. And where do you find someone like that? The Gold Coast, of course! Be there at the Heart of Gold (Coast) Happy Hour to see what (and who) you may find...

xoxo,

Your Hosts

Chaise Me Down Photos Posted

Summer is fading, but it didn't feel like it at the Chaise Me Down Happy Hour. The Chaise Lounge was gorgeous, and filled with gorgeous men! Delicious drinks and food made sure the trip to Bucktown was worthwhile.

Everyone from Project Vida was truly greatful for your support, especially in times that are a challenge for charities. Congratulations to our raffle winner, Bryant, and to everyone for supporting Project Vida.

Check out the photos!

Chaise Me Down Happy Hour

The "Chaise Me Down" Happy Hour

Hello Boys-

We can't wait to see you all this Thursday at the Chaise Lounge in Bucktown! It's a new, South Beach-inspired lounge with indoor and outdoor space - the perfect location to enjoy the last bit of Summer.

xoxo,
Your Hosts


WHAT: The Chaise Me Down Happy Hour

WHEN: Thursday, September 3, 2009, 5:30 - 8:30 pm

WHERE: The Chaise Lounge (description below)

ADDRESS: 1840 W. North Ave. (see below for transportation info)

DRINK SPECIAL: We will have premium martinis for $9, and special pricing on cocktails.

FOOD: There will be passed appetizers and light buffet with some of the Lounge's South Beach inspired menu. Enjoy Seared Risotto, Roasted Bluefish, Shrimp Skewers, Coconut Chicken Bites, and more!

MINIMUM DONATION: $10, with 100% going to benefit Project VIDA.

Project VIDA
Helping GBT racial and ethnic minorities since 1992

Project VIDA was founded in 1992 to address the urgent needs of racial and ethnic minorities. Initially, the agency provided HIV education through street outreach services to area youth. Now, Project VIDA has expanded its community scope by initiating a variety of programs: direct services for people infected or affected by HIV/AIDS and various prevention education programs. We also offer a wide range of prevention Support services for both GBT young men (13-24) and adult men.

Project VIDA offers individual and group services for adults living with HIV/AIDS. The program offers workshops focusing on prevention related topics for those living with HIV/AIDS to encourage healthier lifestyles. Also, support groups that help reinforce coping skills, decrease psycho-social stress associated with living with HIV/AIDS. There are individual prevention/risk reduction counseling sessions offered for a more personal one on one discussion. All services are offered in English and Spanish.

Men at Sea Photos Posted!

The Men at Sea cocktail cruise turned out to be a little more than we expected! The Lakefront looked beautiful under the cold front. And there was plenty of room for all the Men and Martinis when everyone had to move in out of the rain. Fabulous company, food and cocktails kept everyone warm!

Check out the photos!

• View Part 1
• View Part 2

"Men at Sea" Cocktail Cruise - July 30th

Hello, Men at Sea!

The lakefront is one of the things we love most about Chicago - after the Men and the Martinis, of course. What a better way to enjoy it than with amazing views of the skyline and the sunset along with a boat full of men and martinis!!

Tickets are now available online for BGCC's fabulous Men at Sea cocktail cruise! We celebrate Summer in Chicago the best way we know how, aboard Kanan Cruises luxurious yacht.

Space is limited on the boat, so click the advance tickets link below to reserve your spot... each ticket includes a complimentary cocktail on board the yacht!!

Don't be left ashore... Get your advance tickets online!!

WHAT: The Men at Sea Happy Hour

WHEN: Thursday, July 30th, 2009, 5:30 - 10:00PM

WHERE: Kanan Cruises departing from Navy Pier

THE CRUISE: Boarding begins at 5:30PM and the yacht will leave the dock at 6:30PM sharp, spend two hours touring the lakefront and then return at 8:30PM. Once we are back at Navy Pier, everyone is invited to stay on board and enjoy the evening until 10:00PM.

TICKETS: Space on board the yacht is limited, of course, so we encourage you to purchase a ticket in advance and guarantee your spot at one of our most popular events of the season!

DRINK SPECIAL: In addition to the great pricing at the ship's cash bars, you will be served a complimentary cocktail when you board the ship to get your cruise off to a great start. Bars will be open from 5:30 - 10:00PM.

FOOD: There will be a delicious buffet and fantastic passed hors d'oeuvres! Enjoy bruschetta, caprese skews, Italian meatballs, spinach and parmesan cheese dip with rosemary flatbread, antipasto of assorted Italian meats and cheeses, assorted wraps, grilled vegetables and more!

Don't be left ashore... click here to get your advance tickets online!!

XOXO,

Your Hosts

BGCC Men at Sea Boat Cruise!

Hey Boys-

The views of the water, the lakefront path, sailboats in the harbor, the beach... Lake Michigan is one of the things that we love most about summer in Chicago. What better way to celebrate than combining one of our favorite things - cocktails, of course - with another??

Yes, we're talking about our annual tradition of cocktails on the lake! Join us for the BGCC Men At Sea Cocktail Cruise on Lake Michigan. We will launch from Navy Pier on Thursday, July 30th, just in time to get ready for Market Days!

Stay tuned for tickets and more details soon...

Peninsula Photos Posted!

NEW! Photos part 1 | part 2

What do you get when you cross the most fabulous terrace space on Michigan Avenue with glorious sunshine, then mix in models in body paint, martinis with Hornitos... add ice sculptures, elegant appetizers, and a photo booth... then finally, fill with hundreds of delicious men? You get the "Show Us Your Pride" Happy Hour!

Photos are available now!

• View Part 1
• View Part 2

The Weather Was PERFECT!

We could not have had a better night on the terrace of the Peninsula Hotel for our June 18th "Show Us Your Pride" Happy Hour! North Michigan Avenue was sultry and bathed in a summer glow. Photos are coming soon!

Next Event on June 18th - Show Us Your Pride!

Quick, reschedule your Pride pedicure and facial! If you haven't penned in June 18th for the BGCC's Pride event, you WILL NOT want to miss it! Those of you who have been with us for a few years know that the GORGEOUS Peninsula Hotel terrace is not just high above Michigan Avenue but THE HEIGHT of luxurious glamour!

Whatever the weather, this will be one of our most fabulous events. If we can't enjoy the Peninsula's outdoor terrace, the gorgeous reception area adjacent to it is also reserved for us!

For those who made donations with advance tickets, thanks! Chicago House will be accepting donations at the door as well, so plan to join us rain or shine! All attendees will receive a $30 Gift Certificate to the luxurious Peninsula Spa. And, donate $20 or more to Chicago House, and receive five raffle tickets for a five-night stay in Ixtapa, Mexico!

WHAT: The "Show Us Your Pride" Happy Hour

WHEN: Thursday, June 18th, 5:30 - 8:30 pm

WHERE: The Terrace at the Peninsula Hotel

ADDRESS: 108 E. Superior St.

BENEFICIARY: Chicago House

MINIMUM DONATION: $10, with 100% going to our beneficiary.

In addition to a great evening, you will walk away with a $30 Gift Certificate to the Luxurious Peninsula Spa! Those giving $20 or more will also get five raffle entries for a five-night stay at the La Quinta Troppo resort in Ixtapa, Mexico! Chicago House is allowing donations in advance through online tickets. Please use the link below.

DRINK SPECIAL: Sauza Tequila will be featuring their premium Hornitos Tequila in 3 signature cocktails. We will also be offering Ketel One and Grey Goose martinis for $9, as well as regular bar service.

FOOD: The Peninsula Hotel is proud of its food, and is planning to stimulate your palate with a delicious selection of hors d'oeuvres!

...

Photos from Hot Days, Chili Nights!

It was a Magically Mixed, Patio-Perfect Evening! Photos are now posted on Facebook!

• May Photos, Part 1
• May Photos, Part 2

The weather was perfect for our May event. With the French doors opened wide, our boys poured onto the front patio, sipping drinks made by nationally known mixologist, Adam Seger. It has been reported that a few of our hosts ordered martinis beyond the menu and it was a life-changing mixological experience! We also heard more than one person saying, "I'll be back" after tasting the ample selection of passed hors d'oeuvres. A reference to the new Terminator movie? Perhaps...

Thanks to your generosity, we raised over $2100 for the Gay and Lesbian Alliance Against Defamation... below is a thank you note from Michael Durnil:

Dear BGCC,

Thank you all for designating the Gay and Lesbian Alliance Against Defamation as the beneficiary of your May 21, 2009 event at Nacional27. The evening was a double pleasure for me to return home to Chicago and represent GLAAD at the event. Your generosity will help us continue our mission of making sure of fair, accurate and inclusive representation of the LGBT community in media.

At GLAAD, we encourage members of our community to tell their stories. Harvey Milk said that "if they know us, they vote two to one for us". So GLAAD works everyday with individuals and grass roots organizations on how to craft and frame our stories in a way that will help to change hearts and minds. We know that words and images matter.

I encourage you to look at our work at www.glaad.org and register to be a site user so that you can stay up to date with our actions and activities. I also look forward to seeing you again in Chicago at one of our Thank GLAAD its Friday – Pride Edition on June 19 or in the Annual Pride Parade on June 28.

J. Michael Durnil, Ph.D. - Senior Vice President
Gay and Lesbian Alliance Against Defamation

The "Hot Days, Chili Nights" Happy Hour

Do the longer days and rising temperatures make you HOT for summer? We'll help set your Memorial Day weekend ON FIRE with a caliente kickoff! Join us at NACIONAL27, the hip and modern Latin Restaurant, Bar, & Salsa Club!

Will your lips quiver when they sip a Spice & Ice cocktail? Will your tongue twitter as you taste the passed cevice and tapas? Will your hips shiver as they move to exotic Latin beats?

Don't miss this AMAZING celebration which could only be called... our Hot Days, Chili Nights Happy Hour!

WHAT: The Hot Days, Chili Nights Happy Hour!

WHEN: Thursday, May 21, 2009, 5:30 - 8:30 pm

WHERE: Nacional27

ADDRESS: 325 W. Huron, at Orleans

DRINK SPECIAL: Nacional27's resident (and openly gay) celebrity mixologist Adam Seger will be treating us to some of his Signature Cocktails, including El Corazon and Spice & Ice!

FOOD: Passed cevices, tapas and latin sliders from Nacional27's amazing Latin kitchen!

NAMETAGS: Pick the nametag which tells what you are most looking forward to this Memorial Day Weekend!

BENEFICIARY: GLAAD - Gay and Lesbian Alliance Against Defamation

MINIMUM DONATION: $10, with 100% going to our beneficiary.

The "Kiss Me, You April Fool" Happy Hour!

Hello Boys!

It's the "Kiss Me, You April Fool" Happy Hour this Thursday at LUXBAR. The view from the second floor lounge will be FABULOUS as April showers will be gone, and men everywhere will have put away their coats. We are certain that April Foolishness will ensue!

Put your TULIPS together for the Big Gay Cocktail Club this Thursday as we support Lambda Legal and celebrate the arrival of SPRING!

See you at LUXBAR!

xo,
Your BGCC Hosts


--------------------------------------------

The "Kiss Me You April Fool" Happy Hour!

WHAT: The "Kiss Me You April Fool" Happy Hour

WHEN: Thursday, April 16, 2009, 5:30 - 8:30 pm

WHERE: LUXBAR Second Floor Lounge

ADDRESS: 18 E. Bellevue Pl. (Plan your route on Google Transit)

DRINK SPECIAL: We will have 10oz Jumbo SKYY martinis for $10, or SKYY cocktails for $7.

FOOD: There will be a selection of bite-sized Feel Good Food from Luxbar's kitchen.

NAMETAGS: Choose the nametag where you want to plant YOUR tulips!

BENEFICIARY: Lambda Legal Defense

MINIMUM DONATION: $10, with 100% going to our beneficiary.