Headline
Headline
Back to Chicago, IL News

Sidetrack Could Become The First Gay Bar In An American Airport

Chicago, ILLocal News

Sidetrack, Chicago's largest gay bar, has submitted a proposal to open a location at O'Hare Airport, potentially becoming the first gay bar in any U. S. airport. The plan, initiated by Germán González of Somos Hospitality Group, aims to enhance the airport's dining options while promoting LGBTQ+ visibility. Sidetrack co-owners Art Johnston and José “Pepe” Peña would license the bar's brand, with operations managed by Somos.

Johnston, a longtime LGBTQ+ activist, recalled a time when gay bars were essential havens for the community amid societal discrimination. He emphasized the importance of this proposal for Chicago's image as a welcoming place for LGBTQ+ individuals. Misterb&b recently ranked Chicago as the safest U. S. city for LGBTQ+ travelers in its 2025 Queer Safety Index.

The city will decide on the concession bids in the coming months, with Sidetrack competing against many other businesses for the coveted airport spot. This initiative represents a significant cultural shift and highlights Chicago's commitment to supporting its LGBTQ+ community.

Related Articles

Chicago, ILLocal News

Wieners Circle Promised Free Hot Dogs If Bears Coach Ben Johnson Took Off His Shirt. He Did

The Wieners Circle in Lincoln Park offered free hot dogs after Bears Coach Ben Johnson took off his shirt during a post-game speech. Johnson, celebrating the Bears' 24-15 victory over the Philadelphia Eagles, excitedly obliged, leading to a promised giveaway day on Tuesday. This follows a similar promotion in September when free hot dogs were given after quarterback Caleb Williams threw four touchdown passes.

Chicago, ILLocal News

Chicago's Overnight Winter Parking Ban With 200 Violation Fines Returns Monday

Chicago's overnight parking ban resumes Monday, coinciding with a major snowstorm expected to bring over 10 inches of snow. The ban, enforced on 107 miles of main streets daily from 3 a.m. to 7 p.m., includes hefty fines for violators. City officials emphasize that this consistent rule improves snow removal operations.

Chicago, ILLocal News

ICE Takes Kurdish Asylum Seeker The Day Before His Wife Became A US Citizen 'I Cannot Do This Alone'

Eva Gurtovaia celebrated her U.S. citizenship on Wednesday while her husband, Enes Abak, remained detained by immigration agents just a day earlier. Abak, a Kurdish asylum seeker from Turkey, faces challenges due to his pending political asylum application and fears for his safety if returned to his home country. Local supporters rallied to express their concerns over his detention and advocate for his release.