News Summary
Long Beach is celebrating OUTober by highlighting LGBTQ+ owned and operated businesses, fostering community engagement and inclusivity. Notable establishments include Plantiitas, Hot Java, Silver Fox, Toxic Toast Records, and Good Time Cafe. These venues provide a backdrop for cultural events and support the local economy. The initiative encourages residents and visitors to support diverse ownership and create a welcoming atmosphere for all. Events throughout the month will bolster community connections and showcase the rich cultural fabric of Long Beach.
Long Beach is celebrating OUTober with an emphasis on LGBTQ+ owned and operated businesses, fostering a sense of community while showcasing local entrepreneurial efforts. This month-long initiative highlights various establishments that contribute to the rich cultural fabric of the city and provides an opportunity for residents and visitors to support these businesses.
Among the notable LGBTQ+ establishments is Plantiitas, located at 2011 E. 4th St. in Long Beach’s “Retro Row”. This plant shop, which is both LGBTQ-friendly and immigrant-owned, is renowned for hosting community events such as repotting workshops and drag bingo nights. On October 17, Plantiitas will feature a special pot painting and drag show event. The shop operates Monday through Friday from 11 a.m. to 7 p.m. and Saturday to Sunday from 11 a.m. to 6 p.m.
Hot Java, situated at 2101 E. Broadway near Bixby Park, is another essential part of the local scene. This café offers specialty coffee and serves as a hub for the local queer community by hosting various events and showcasing local art displays. The venue is noted for its open mic nights and maintains a community board for local events. Hot Java is open every day from 6 a.m. to 5 p.m.
The Silver Fox, located at 411 Redondo Ave., has been a nightlife fixture since 1981. Founded by partners John Schinnerer and Ron Waddell, this venue features popular events like karaoke and “Thirsty Thursicals.” The Silver Fox operates Monday through Friday from 4 p.m. to 2 a.m., and Saturday and Sunday from noon to 2 a.m.
Toxic Toast Records, established in 2014 and located at 757 Pine Ave., offers a variety of vinyl records across multiple genres. The shop is recognized for its vibrant decor, adorned with posters and music-themed decorations. Additionally, owner Andy George runs the LGBTQ-friendly Toxic Toast Theatre nearby. The record shop welcomes customers from Tuesday to Sunday, between noon and 7 p.m., and is closed on Mondays.
Recently relaunched in 2023, Good Time Cafe is located at 1322 Coronado Ave. This café welcomes patrons with an upbeat atmosphere and an LGBTQ+ friendly vibe, complemented by a lively menu featuring local artisan displays and a selections of beers and wines. The café’s hours of operation are Monday through Thursday from 7 a.m. to 5 p.m., Friday from 7 a.m. to 8 p.m., Saturday from 7 a.m. to 5 p.m., and Sunday from 7 a.m. to 3 p.m.
Throughout OUTober, Long Beach aims to cultivate positive and welcoming communities by encouraging residents and tourists alike to visit and support these LGBTQ+ owned and allied businesses. By highlighting these establishments, Long Beach aims to foster a climate of inclusivity that benefits both consumers and business owners alike.
Each of these businesses contributes to the unique character of Long Beach and plays a vital role in the local economy. As the city celebrates OUTober, it seeks to emphasize the importance of supporting diverse ownership and the impact it has on community engagement and cohesion.
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Author: STAFF HERE CORONADO
The Coronado Staff Writer represents the experienced team at HERECoronado.com, your go-to source for actionable local news and information in Coronado, San Diego County, and beyond. Specializing in "news you can use," we cover essential topics like product reviews for personal and business needs, local business directories, politics, real estate trends, neighborhood insights, and state news affecting the area—with deep expertise drawn from years of dedicated reporting and strong community input, including local press releases and business updates. We deliver top reporting on high-value events such as the Coronado Island Film Festival, productions at Lamb’s Players Theatre, community workshops at John D. Spreckels Center, and iconic celebrations at Hotel del Coronado. Our coverage extends to key organizations like the Coronado Chamber of Commerce and Visit Coronado, plus leading businesses in hospitality, dining, and tourism that drive the local economy. As part of the broader HERE network, including HERESanDiego.com, HEREHuntingtonBeach.com, HERELongBeach.com, and HERELosAngeles.com, we provide comprehensive, credible insights into Southern California's dynamic landscape.
