NYC AIDS Memorial Hosts Annual Vigil as LGBTQ+ Community Marks World AIDS Day
This year, New York City will once again pay tribute to loved ones lost to the HIV/AIDS epidemic as the city’s AIDS Memorial hosts its 33rd annual "Out of the Darkness World AIDS Day Candlelight Vigil and Gathering." Scheduled for December 1st, starting at 6 p.m., the vigil stands as a poignant reminder of the fight against HIV/AIDS and a chance to honor the memories of those taken by the virus.
The memorial, located at the intersection of Greenwich Avenue and West 12th Street, will be the focal point for this somber yet hopeful commemoration. At 6:30 p.m., the remembrance will continue at St. John’s Lutheran Church, located on Christopher Street. There, attendees can reflect on the profound impact of the epidemic through readings of names and additional programing.
“Out of the Darkness” is not the only event taking place during World AIDS Day. This weekend, the LGBTQ+ community will come together for a diverse range of experiences, from nights of celebration and artistic expression to awareness-raising initiatives and spaces of remembrance.
Several local LGBTQ+ venues and organizations have planned special events to mark World AIDS Day, demonstrating the ongoing vitality and resilience of the community in the face of a historic tragedy. "GirlyPop," a drag tribute to iconic pop divas, takes center stage at Brooklyn’s 3 Dollar Bill on November 29th, promising a night of celebration and musical flair. Meanwhile, "Janet Vs. Madonna," hosted by musical artists The Illustrious Blacks, will offer a fun-filled homage to two legendary female pop superstars at C’mon Everybody, also on November 29th.
Those seeking a night of dancing and connection can head to Hush in Hell’s Kitchen for "Friction Fridays" on November 29th.
The following day, The Stonewall Inn – a historic landmark and symbol of LGBTQ+ rights – will be the site of "The Roast of Cherry Poppins." The beloved performer celebrates a milestone birthday with friends and admirers in a night of humor and entertainment.
This weekend will also feature:
- "Fab", a drag extravaganza featuring Amanda Tori Meeting, Miss Ma’am Shee, and Dev Doee, at C’mon Everybody (November 30th).
-
"World AIDS Day Book Release and Reading", celebrating the novel “Facing It: A Novel About AIDS,” at the Bureau of General Services-Queer Division (December 1st). This event will also be live-streamed on the Bureau’s YouTube page.
-
"Queer Swing Dance", a welcoming space for LGBTQ+ dancers to connect and learn, at Christ Church in Brooklyn (December 1st).
- “Le Poof Tour," a new disco pop experience led by Disco Brothers Van Hechter and Chauncey Dandridge, at 9 Bob Note in Brooklyn (December 1st).
For more detailed information about these events and any additional World AIDS Day activities taking place in New York City, visit NYCAIDSMemorial.org.
