Page 29 - Adelante Magazine February 2025

vibes. Papi’s and Thirsty’s RVA are two other On” starred local drag performer Wette Midler known as the “Mile of Style,” is perfect for bou-
LGBTQ establishments worth a visit. These and actor Doug Schneider. Two neighbors tique shopping and eclectic eats. The Fan Dis-
venues are more than just places to grab a meet for the first time when they get stuck in an trict, with its historic row houses, offers
drink; they are community hubs where connec- elevator together. Although the encounter be- charming streets and lively restaurants. Mean-
tions are forged, and memories are made. gins with a lot of tension, it ends with Ted (Doug while, Scott’s Addition has become a hotspot
Schneider) performing along with Natasha for breweries, cideries, and distilleries.
Every winter, Richmond’s Lewis Ginter Botani- (Wette Midler) in a drag competition.
cal Garden transforms into a magical wonder- The Richmond Region’s appeal lies in its ability
land during the GardenFest of Lights. This The second performance, “Who’s Holiday” was to blend its historic charm with a progressive,
annual event features more than a million twin- a hilarious one-woman performance by Emily inclusive atmosphere. From drag brunches and
kling lights adorning the garden’s lush land- Dandridge as Cindy Lou Who from Dr. Seuss's theatrical productions to seasonal festivals and
scapes. Visitors can stroll through themed How the Grinch Stole Christmas! Set after her culinary adventures, the city offers something
displays, admire the holiday model train, and childhood encounter with the Grinch, Cindy Lou for everyone. Its embrace of diversity, espe-
warm up with hot cocoa. The festive at- is now a boozy, wisecracking woman reflecting cially within the LGBTQ community, ensures
mosphere is perfect for families, couples, or on her less-than-ideal life in a trailer park during that visitors and residents alike feel a sense of
friends looking to immerse themselves in the the holiday season. belonging.
holiday spirit. With its breathtaking displays and
enchanting ambiance, the GardenFest of Wake up the next morning and start to explore Enjoy the Journey!
Lights is a must-see attraction during the winter Richmond diverse neighborhoods. Carytown,
months.

For a more boozy adventure, hop on Rich-
mond’s Mimosa Trail. Over 40 establishments
are included on this self-guided tour of local
spots serving creative and refreshing takes on
the classic mimosa. We began our tour at the
historic Jefferson Hotel, a stunning landmark of
Southern elegance and luxury, renowned for its
historic charm and impeccable service.
Opened in 1895, this grand hotel boasts
Beaux-Arts architecture, opulent interiors, and
a dramatic grand staircase that inspired the
one in Gone with the Wind. Next, head to SB’s
Lakeside Love Shack, an LGBTQ affirming res-
taurant owned by Sarabeth “SB” Hagen. The
rainbow-adorned restaurant offers a wonderful
selection of dishes ranging from a Breakfast All
Day menu to a delicious sweet potato hash that
is the perfect side dish to just about anything.

Although not part of the mimosa trail, Gold Lion
Community Café is a must-visit destination in
Richmond. LGBTQ owners Matt and Nafis
created a welcoming space blending vegetar-
ian cuisine with an Indian flair. The café serves
not only as a restaurant but also as a space for
LGBTQ individuals and organizations to gather.
The couple wanted to create a destination
where members of the community can feel at
home but also a business that was able to give
back. Gold Lion offers a special menu of items
available free of charge for anyone in the com-
munity in need of a warm meal – no questions
asked. Gold Lion is truly a Richmond treasure.

If the stars align, catch a performance by the
Richmond Triangle Players (RTP), one of the
nation’s longest-running LGBTQ theater com-
panies. RTP produces bold, thought-provoking,
and entertaining works that explore the LGBTQ
experience, fostering understanding and dia-
logue within the community. Their venue offers
an intimate setting to enjoy performances rang-
ing from powerful dramas to hilarious comedies
and dazzling musicals. We saw a performance
of “A Campy Christmas” which consisted of two
separate productions. The first titled “With Bells

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