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Hayes Valley salon TAYLOR/MONROE is gearing up for Pride celebrations early, hosting a party and fundraiser this weekend for Queer Lifespace, a non-profit counseling center for LGBTQ individuals.
On Saturday evening, the Grove Street salon will be opening its doors to the community, with live music, drag performances, and an open bar. DJ Ethical Drugs will be spinning, and the band Spray Tan will be playing a show.
In addition to live music, drag queens Celeste Yaas (MC), Cash Monet, Terri Twaught Waffle and Mary Magnum will be performing.
Drinks will include specialty cocktails and mixed drinks courtesy of SKYY Vodka, along with beer and wine.
Last but not least, a raffle will take place at the event, with prizes from a number of Hayes Valley bars, restaurants and performance spaces, including Monsieur Benjamin, SF Ballet, SF Jazz and Dobbs Ferry.
All proceeds from the evening will go to Queer Lifespace, which counsels LGBTQ people. "Queer people often struggle with increased rates of suicidal ideation, depression, anxiety, substance abuse, trauma, and loss of family," the non-profit's website states. "Government funding for nonprofits has dramatically decreased, making it difficult for existing local agencies to meet all the essential mental health and substance abuse needs our community requires. We are here to be a solution to these problems."
This is the third year that TAYLOR/MONROE has hosted a Pride-related fundraiser. "As huge supporters of the LGBTQ community, we like to raise awareness and donations to smaller, local non-profits that provide vital services to the community," Wilmer Balmocena, the salon manager, told us. "The event fully comes together through volunteers and companies that donate their time and products to make the event happen. All drag performers donate their time, DJs reduce their rates, liquor sponsors donate their product ... all to make this special night happen."
If you're interested in attending, tickets are $13 in advance (purchase them here), and $15 at the door.
Other events taking place in Hayes Valley this week include live music, a dating mixer, and a crawfish boil:
To check out more local events around the city, visit hoodline.com/events.
