A whirlwind of fun awaits in Chicago this June as Back Lot Bash, Chicago's most attended women's festival taking place every Pride, is readying to celebrate its 14th Anniversary.
Founded in 2004 by Amie Klujian and Christina Wiesmore, the "hottest, most rockin' festival for queer women" will happen this year over two weekends: June 16, and June 23-25.
Showcasing local and emerging talent as well as established performers of different genres, Back Lot Bash highlights unity, equality and inclusiveness in an environment that is festive and celebratory of everyone in the community.
An outdoor women's festival in Chicago's Andersonville neighborhood, Back Lot Bash is produced and sponsored by women, for women. It stands out among other lesbian events across the nation for its unique ability to maintain an intimate feel while drawing thousands of attendees.
Since 2004, the event has grown from a single-day event to a 4-day weekend party drawing thousands of people from all over the midwest and across the U.S.
Co-founders Wiesmore and Klujian strive to bring the community together, to showcase emerging and established talent and to be active citizens by helping to raise money for community organizations.
This year the Bash will be raising funds for Organized Chaos, an organization with a mission to support philanthropic endeavors in all communities ( while reaching out to empower a community of diverse women through rides, charity events, Pride events and education ).
The entertainment lineup includes Whitney Mixter, Madison Paige, Sea and Gunn ( Daniela Sea and Gunn Lundemo ), Bria and Chrissy, Catfight, JD Samson, Kiyomi Valentine, DJ Goodboy and Tory Whodat, among others.
For more info go to: backlotbashchicago.com .
SCHEDULE
June 16th - Pride Fest Weekend - Whitney Mixter hosts ( this corresponds to the first "pride" weekend, which is pride fest ) www.facebook.com/events/1887004554920593/ .
Back Lot Bash is during Chicago Pride parade weekend.
It has 4 events, all in the Andersonville neighborhood of Chicago:
Friday 6/23
Whiskey, Wine and Women - A Tasting Party! Featuring Jazz Singer Jess Godwin jessgodwin.com/ with DJ's . Mingle. And come grab a taste of an array of fine whiskeys, wines, craft beers with food included.
Saturday 6/24
- BACK LOT FAMILY & KIDS DAY - FREE EVENT FOR ALL! ( Sat. 6/24 | 11am-2pm )
A day of fun for LGBTQA families and friends featuring award-winning kids' music, entertainment, activities and more! Bring the entire family!
- All Day Bash - Host is Kyomi. Performances by Tori Whodat, DJ Goodboy, JD Samson, Catfight ( local cover band )
Official After Party at Replay Bar: 10pm -3am with DJ GoodBoy and DJ ZEL
Sunday 6/25
- Pride Day Bash - Host is DJ Goodboy & . Performances by Dev, DJ Gunn and Daniela Sea, Bria and Chrissy.
Official After Party at Replay Bar: 10pm -3am with DJ GoodBoy
VENUES:
Girls' Night Out at Lark Lounge, 3441 N Halsted St, Chicago, IL 60657
Whiskey, Wine and Women at Reza's, 5255 N Clark St, Chicago, IL 60640
Official After Party at Replay Bar, 5358 N Clark St, Chicago, IL 60640
All other Back Lot Bash events at 5238 N. Clark, Chicago, IL 60640 ( behind Cheetah gym ).