The Solo Trip: August 6th 2024
I think right now what a lot of us need is space to find community, take it slow and re-group. From yoga to zine making, here's your Solo Trip newsletter where you can find rest amidst the chaos.
Welcome to Light In The Loafers. Your weekly digest of LGBTQ+ news, entertainment, TV and Film. As a firm believer in spending time on your own, make sure you subscribe to receive our additional fortnightly newsletter, The Solo Trip which has some of the best events across the UK to go to as a solo traveller. Enjoy, and don’t forget to comment and share with like-minded folk. Thank you for supporting a self-published queer run newsletter!
As we gear up for another round of national pride celebrations, here are some of the UKs best events for us lot who prefer life in the slow lane. Whether it be meeting queer community for the first time or trying a new skill, take what you like and leave the rest! Be sure to share anything you see here with pals who you think would enjoy too - the more the merrier!
Touch Grass Day-Tripper: Forest Stroll
No matter the weather, this wonderful group have a day of walking planned to provide both fresh air and new connections for non-binary people and queer women of colour. If you’re looking to get those legs moving, join them as they walk 10km across Epping Forest. Comfortable shoes recommended!
When? Saturday 17th August 2024
Where? Epping Forest, London/Essex
Manchester LGBTQ+ History Trail
Ahead of Manchester Pride at the end of August, this is a chance to beat the crowds and have a gay old time and learn more about a city rich in queer culture and history. Local playwright and man about town Chris Hoyle will take you on the trail through the city centre and of course through the cities well known Gay Village. I feel like if I did one of these i’d call it ‘learn and mince’ but not sure that has the same ring to it.
Where? Manchester, Whitworth Locke in the Civic Quarter
When? 17th August 2024 (other dates available in August)
Jamie & Shaaba Spill The Tea with The T in LGBT
Jamie Raines is the only person that I would allow to have the same name as me and also have a yellow book - and he’s putting on an event with his wonderful wife Shaaba to discuss all things ‘The T in LGBT+’. A brilliantly charming book following Raines’ lived experience, this book provides a healthy dose of his unique sense of humour and sharp intellect, covering all things we need to know about being trans. We love Jamie and Shaaba, and think you will too.
(I wouldn’t have my name on a tea cup endorsing it if I didn’t think it was good!)
When? 15th August 2024
Where? Birmingham, Waterstones
Do you fancy yourself a creative mogul? Well get yourself down to Leamington Spa and join the exceptionally talented Jason from Sassify Zine to unleash your most creative self. With all materials provided, this hands-on workshop will take you from beginner to seasoned professional, but rest assured all experience is welcome. Chat, meet like-minded people and marvel at Jason’s amazing hair in this afternoon session in celebration of Warwickshire Pride. It’s true Jason’s hair is amazing I have seen it in real life.. promise. (Proof here.)
When? 17th August 2024
Where? Royal Leamington Spa
Whether you’re new to the mat or fancy yourself a yogic pro, Wolverhampton LGBT+ are inviting you down to their calming yoga space to experience queer mindfulness this August. With all equipment provided, this weekly class is the perfect space to combine body and mind and find queer community all at the same time. What a treat!
(From the relics of my brain I know that Wolverhampton’s football team are Wolverhampton Wanderers and their logo is an orange and black wolf in case anybody was curious…)
When? 15th August 2024 (weekly - dates vary)
Where? Wolverhampton, Pride House
Do you love knitting? Are you a reigning champion amongst your friendship group at Boggle? Have you always wanted to play Dungeons and Dragons? Pop yourself down to the Queer Sober Social and indulge yourself in … well whatever floats your boat. Teach others, or be taught yourself - make friends, have some conversations or just rock up solo and see what takes your fancy, in a comfortable and cosy sober environment.
When? 28th August (and every 4th Wednesday of the month)
Where? Birmingham, The Moseley Hive
A little different from our usual Solo Trip offering, but Queer Edge are fast emerging as the one stop destination for queer folk interested in mutual aid, connection and creativity. From queer parties to co-working spaces, Queer Edge have created a multi-functional space in London that connects the community in accessible ways, no matter your identity or age. From parties to live music, to daily co-working spaces to meet like-minded folk, you can be sure to feel confident walking in as a solo fellow.
When? Queer Co-Working everyday, events and parties listed on their website
Where? East London
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