You probably knew that Washington, D.C. has one of the biggest queer communities, but it also has one of the largest Jewish communities. Another fun fact: a dreidel is a spinning top used in a game associated with Hanukkah. A gaydel is a spin on the original word. (See what I did there?)
Oh, Gaydel, Gaydel, Gaydel! is a queer Chanukah happy hour held for LGBT Jewish folks and friends.
AJ Campbell, the Director of Nice Jewish Girls, says the event will be held in the spirit of Thanksgivukkah, and they expect many newcomers at what will be their biggest happy hour yet. Nice Jewish Girls is a philanthropic queer Jewish group in D.C. that strives to create an even larger community. At the happy hour, they’ll accept coats for the needy, towels and blankets for animal shelters, or a monetary donation in place of supplies. Donations are optional.
The other groups that have partnered with Nice Jewish Girls to host this event include Bet Mishpachah, Gayyim, Nice Jewish Boys, and GLOE—all queer Jewish groups in D.C.
“When we band together, charity-wise, it’s quite amazing what we can accomplish,” says Campbell. “The group is called ‘the five families’ and we’re more powerful together.”
What to expect:
A social event where you can “meet new friends, network, or meet someone special.” They will be lighting a Menuturkey (or Menurkey, a menorah-turkey). The organizers have a statuette of a turkey, which will be surrounded by eight candles and placed on a sea of cranberries. Campbell says they’ve “found every new type of Jewish music” and holiday music, of course. There will be dreidel games, Thanksgivukkah bingo, happy hour food, and latke tater tots.
Why should you come?
Latke tater tots. And, in Campbell’s words, “It’s an open event—you don’t need to be a member of any of the groups. Get involved, meet people, find a sense of community and be part of something.”
Event Details:
Wednesday, December 4th
7:00 p.m. – 10:00 p.m.
Duplex Diner
2004 18th St NW, Washington, D.C.
