Associate Editor of OutClique. Writer for PRIDE. Buffalo wing aficionado. Traveler. Former hairy drag queen. Carrie Bradshaw wannabe. Home is New York City.
We scoured the internet for some really gay gifts! Here are 20 presents that will make your loved one scream, "Yas queen!" when they open them. From sex toys to cute prints, to snarky mugs to Looking relics, our guide has it all.
Cosmos and doggy coats for Valentine's Day? Yes, please!
Courtesy OTR Premium Cocktails; Courtesy of Marie-Adélina de la Ferrière; Courtesy BONDIR
Marie-Adélina, your Lovable Trans Auntie, has you covered with gift ideas this Valentine's Day.
Courtesy OTR Premium Cocktails; Courtesy of Marie-Adélina de la Ferrière; Courtesy BONDIR
Valentine's Day is the annual reminder that love is in the air…or, at the very least, all over your Instagram feed. But while some are lost in a whirlwind of prix-fixe menus and heart-shaped everything, I like to think of it as a day for pleasure in all its forms. Whether you're indulging in romance or friendship or a little me, myself, and I time–who can forget about self-love?–you deserve gifts that make your heart race. So, from sultry scents to a celebration of queer history, luxury lube to the perfect lip, here are my Lovable Things for this Valentine's Day.
Because love should always come with a little extra sparkle.
There's something about applying a bold red lip. And when it's MAC Viva Glam, it screams main character energy. But it's not just about the look. With every cent raised toward supporting and empowering marginalized groups, this is the sexiest way to give back while looking absolutely kissable.
Sexy doesn't always have to involve lace and frills—it can mean feeling good in your own skin. Woxer's inclusive and ethical line is made for every body, serving up comfort and confidence in equal measure. Whether you're lounging solo or undressing for a special occasion, these are a must-have.
If Cupid wore sneakers now, they'd look like these: Freshy is bright, bold, and never skimps on comfort, turning every sidewalk into your personal runway. Who needs a Valentine when you've got fresh kicks?
Forget roses: this is the bouquet we need. In Flamboyants, prolific writer George M. Johnson celebrates the unsung queer icons of the Harlem Renaissance, from writers to performers to activists whose legacies have been hidden from history's fine print. Whether gifting this to a young dreamer or adding it to your own must-read stack, this is a love letter to the culture that shaped us.
If love had a scent, I imagine it would be this: warm almond biscotti fresh out of the oven lingering in the air to romance your senses. Radiant Light Candle Company's candle (also available as a spray) transforms your home into the coziest, most romantic café with no reservations required.
There's nothing wrong with showing your friends some love! This candle set from Bijou Candles takes inspiration from the hit '97 film. The Romy candle is a juicy blend of peach, sweet fig, and vanilla orchid, while the Michele is a dream mix of peach, apple, and orange mixed with lilac and must. Light them up, grab your bestie, and relive the magic of making your own rules.
I firmly believe Valentine's Day is also an occasion to spoil the four-legged loves in your life. Bondir's Bordeaux Wool Tweed Vest is pet fashion at its finest, blending classic wool tweed with luxe leather and cozy details that meet high fashion. Plus, you can buy a human jacket to serve matching looks this season and beyond!
Love may give you a glow, but hydration keeps it there. The Rosehip Hibiscus Face Creme from Wholesome Hippy is a love letter to the skin, designed to hydrate, heal, and tone. Because the only thing that should look tired is your ex's attempt at a late-night text. Dewy, fresh, and revitalized? Now, that's a love story worth celebrating.
Nothing says romance and mischief quite like a Cosmo, and On The Rocks Premium Cocktail has you covered. Infused with Effen Vodka, the ready-made Cosmopolitan cocktail is a perfectly balanced mix of sophistication and ease. Just pour it into an iced glass and toast to love, friendship, or another fabulous night of being you. (Please drink responsibly; must be legal drinking age to purchase.)
For the nights when flowers and chocolates aren't quite enough. Flying solo or entertaining a partner (or partners—Auntie doesn't judge), Überlube is the gold standard in luxury lubrication. No sticky residue, no weird fragrances, just pure, high-quality glide for whatever adventures the night may bring.
Celebrate Valentine's Day Your Way!
Courtesy OTR Premium Cocktails; Courtesy of Marie-Adélina de la Ferrière; Courtesy BONDIR
Valentine's Day is what you make of it, from a candlelit dinner for two to sweating it out on the dance floor or a cozy night spent spoiling yourself. So slip into something comfortable (or nothing at all), put on some music, and remember: the best love story this Valentine's Day is the one you write for yourself.
And take it from Auntie, you deserve a happy ending.
Images Courtesy: Jen Bonin @jen_bonin_pvd; Ryan Welch @rywelchy; Andre Duran @andreduranphoto
40 Stunning Snaps of Providence's Queer Scene Sleighing the Holidays!Images Courtesy: Jen Bonin @jen_bonin_pvd; Ryan Welch @rywelchy; Andre Duran @andreduranphoto
Who says the smallest state can't throw the biggest party? Providence's LGBTQ+ scene turned up the sparkle and served fierce all holiday season, proving once again they're not just about good times, they're also about giving back. These images capture the magic of drag queens jingling all the way, dance floors packed with holiday cheer, and events that doubled as fundraisers. Because in this community, it’s all about serving looks and serving love. Take a peek - you’ll wish you’d been there to slay the holidays with them!
Footage stills via TikTok @americanballettheatre; @tgeyl123; @lukatheseamonster
The rats are back, and they are sexier than ever! Yes, you read that correctly.
You may think going to see The Nutcracker is a wholesome way to spend the holiday season, but it turns out, behind the scenes, these ballet dancers are sexy AF, even in rat costumes!
It’s become a bit of a tradition on TikTok that every winter, the rats from the beloved Christmas ballet The Nutcracker make videos featuring them dancing to modern songs, but this year, ballet dancers across the country went all out.
Dubbed “RatTok,” ballet dancers from different companies all over the U.S. have taken part in the tradition this year by posting videos of themselves decked out in Mouse King — affectionately dubbed “Rat King” — costumes while dancing to pop songs.
Earlier this month, the American Ballet Theatre posted a now-viral TikTok of Mouse King dancer Cy Doherty and his rodent royalty Melvin Lawovi and Andrew Robare swinging their hips to Beyoncé’s “Diva” while one of them twerks and swings their tail.
The originals are back 🥱 #RatTok #AmericanBalletTheatre Featuring: Cy Doherty 👑, Melvin Lawovi 🐀 and Andrew Robare 🐀
The video has already racked up 5 million views at the time of publication, and while ABT may have started the trend, ballet companies from all over have equally funny and smoking hot TikToks, too.
In case you’re wondering how a male ballet dancer with a giant rat suit could be sexy: first, their dance moves are amazing (and will make you giggle), and second, their pants are frequently skin tight and leave little to the imagination.
Plus, now it’s not just the Rat King who’s making an appearance on your FYP; sexy toy soldiers and one “dad” have gotten in on the action too, with sinfully hawt videos of their own.
Keep scrolling to see the best (and thirstiest!) “RatTok” videos!
Serving on and off the stage 🫡 … but fr we almost missed our entrance on stage 😅 #late #priorities #professional? #ballet #nutcracker #soldiers @Joseph @ethan.mrmacovski @josh douglas⸆⸉
As the year comes to a close, Hoying is now revealing when they're expecting to welcome a baby into the family.
"We're just getting closer to finding a surrogate! It takes longer for the gays, but we are getting closer. Next year. Definitely next year," Hoying tells PRIDE.
Hoying isn't the first member of Pentatonix to have a baby! Kevin Olusola and Matt Sallee are both parents, while Kirstin Maldonado just announced on the band's current holiday tour that she's pregnant with her second child.
"I feel great! The shows have been amazing. Everything is super well-polished. We all love the show and the fans have been so amazing, so it's been really great. Obviously it's harder to breathe, but besides that, everything is going amazing," Maldonado says.
It's hard to believe that Pentatonix formed all the way back in high school in Arlington, Texas. Fast forward to today, the a capella group has become an undeniable holiday staple and all of the members have grown tremendously in their personal lives.
"Knowing these two for so long, they've made such huge strides in their lives and accomplished so many amazing things. It's really inspiring. The more we work together, the closer we get and the more we understand each other," Grassi shares.
Grassi and Hoying have represented the LGBTQ+ community so beautifully as their mainstream popularity has grown over the years. The two hope their visibility can continue to inspire all queer youth to live as authentically as possible.
"There's no better feeling than getting to be your authentic self and surrounding yourself with people that love and accept you for who you are no matter what. Young queer kids need to know that they deserve that," Grassi says.
"Being queer is so incredibly beautiful and amazing. It's something to be super proud of. I love to be as visibly gay as possible! If it helps any queer kid that's closeted or afraid, they can feel less alone in seeing that," Hoying adds.
"It's so special to be in a place where we can really stand by each other. It's the best feeling in the world. I love them! They're my family. They're like my brothers," Maldonado shares.
Finally, Hoying is not only hoping to welcome a bundle of joy into his home next year, but he's manifesting his first ever solo Grammy win for his beautiful song "Rose Without The Horns." The song received a nomination for Best Arrangement, Instrumental or A Cappella.
"It is really surreal! The song came from such a special place. It was anniversary gift to my husband. I was beside myself with joy! It was such a moment of validation," Hoying concludes.
Fans can get tickets to see Pentatonix on their Hallelujah! It's A Christmas Tour by visiting the official website here. To see the full interview, check out the video at the top of the page.
Beginning November 29 and running through December 31, 2024, this adults-only holiday extravaganza will transform over 26,000 square feet at 548 West 22nd Street into a festive playground filled with immersive holiday cheer and the North Pole’s naughtiest secrets.
Presented by Voss Events, Santa’s Secret takes guests on a mesmerizing two-hour journey through a winter wonderland of eight unique, interactive installations, each redesigned with elaborate new sets for the experience’s fourth year. Along the way, revelers will encounter delightfully cheeky characters, including mischievous living toys, seductive gingerbread ladies, and Santa’s Secret’s famous lumberjack.
The journey culminates at Santa’s Secret Speakeasy, where guests can unwind and indulge in the ultimate holiday celebration. Here, live entertainment heats up the night as a five-piece band led by powerhouse vocalist Inyang Bassey delivers festive tunes, setting the stage for a night of holiday joy. Michelin-starred chef Richard Farnabe will tantalize taste buds with holiday-themed bites, while craft cocktails enhance the festive atmosphere. Following the live band, the evening continues with a dazzling variety show, hosted by the hilarious and enchanting ice queen Shequida. Expect ballet, burlesque, aerialists and other jaw-dropping acts, each peeling back the layers to reveal one of Santa’s best-kept secrets.
“Christmas isn’t just for kids,” says Brandon Voss, producer of Santa’s Secret. “This immersive holiday experience gives adults a chance to embrace a little holiday mischief and revelry. We’re thrilled to be back for a fourth sold-out year, especially at a new expanded location allowing us to triple the size of our unique walk-through experience. Returning guests can expect lots of new surprises this year!”
With all-new sets and never-before-seen performances, Santa’s Secret promises even more thrills for 2024. Ticket prices begin at $75. They can be purchased at www.SantasSecret.com.
For more information about Santa’s Secret, including how to purchase tickets, please visit www.SantasSecret.com. You can follow the immersive experience on social media @SantasSecret and @ VossEvents on Instagram, Twitter, and Facebook.