Roving queer happy hour Outpost creates community in Northern Kentucky, Cincinnati
Every month, a queer happy hour blesses a different bar in the Northern Kentucky and Cincinnati region, and in addition to the regulars that usually haunt the place, one can expect to see a gaggle of queers. Responsible for this queer takeover is Outpost, a monthly queer happy hour with a rotating venue.
The idea was sparked in February 2023 by members of the Reading is Fundamental NKY Queer Book Club. The concept is simple: a happy hour with no agenda, by queer people and for queer people. With a new venue each month, the gathering would meet people where they are, introduce folks to new neighborhoods, and act as a queer occupation of different bars.
“There are a lot of social spaces that feel specifically created for and occupied by gay men, and we wanted one that felt more Queer,” says Julia Keister, who organizes the event.
Unaffiliated with a business or brand, the aim of Outpost is to create community and queer spaces. “Outpost is an evening to be seen and be you,” promises the event’s Instagram bio.
That promise is fulfilled each month. At Outpost, all are welcome, and nothing is expected.
“We wanted a space that was just about being together, where there was no theme, trivia night, or pressure to network,” says Keister.
There are repeat guests who have never missed a month, and there are always first-timers. New connections have blossomed from introductions at Outpost, but it’s also an opportunity to connect with existing friends. Whether or not they can attend each month, the knowledge that there’s an upcoming evening where they are welcome and appreciated just for being themselves is valuable for many attendees.
While the concept started among friends, the event has drawn many new faces from all over Northern Kentucky and Southwest Ohio. No two Outposts have looked the same — from rosé on tap at a swanky mirrored bar to a sidewalk seltzer at a neighborhood dive, the atmosphere changes as much as the attendance does.
There’s just one stipulation when selecting a bar for Outpost: it must be a total takeover, and visibility is critical.
“We will not be in a private room, pushed to the back, or sitting down in a special section,” Keister says.
The idea is easy to replicate in other cities and regions. Preparations each month include selecting the location, letting the management know to expect a crowd, and sharing the details. Instagram is the only way the event is promoted, and attendees frequently have heard about it via word of mouth. No RSVP is required, and the event starts at 5:30 p.m.
The first Outpost occurred on March 1, 2024 at Liberty’s Wine Bar in Cincinnati. Since March, the mixer has popped up Larry’s in Covington, Jerry’s Jug House in Newport, and City View Tavern in Mt. Adams. As Outpost continues to expand its reach and visit new locations, the mission will remain the same: be together, be out, and be seen.
Follow @OutpostCincy on Instagram to know the next destination.