To meet queer, lesbian, gay, bisexual people in your area, explore online dating apps, and consider 2SLGBTQ+ social groups or events. Actively participating in community events, volunteer work, or hobbies can also lead to connections.
We at Thunder Pride are not a dating site, we can’t tell you exactly how to find someone to hook up / date / fall in love with. Please do not email us to ask you to find hook ups or how to date.
If your intentions are in hopes of finding a healthy, loving relationship, here are some suggestions and resources:
Take it slow! Develop friendships, don’t be creepy, live in the moment, learn from observing and have no expectations of meeting your dream partner right away. And always keep in mind that many queer people (especially trans people) are on high alert in public, given the continuing inquisition against our existence. See this 2023 survey to explore more about ideas and experiences with gay dating apps.
Our overall advice is to think friendship first, not quickie hookups. Be patient and demonstrate you are a good person with genuine intentions. We are out there, many of us sitting home on Saturday night, but we do not exist for your fantasy fulfillment or to serve as your sexual experiment. That’s for sex workers- know the difference (and also be respectful and safe if you are going to share the company of a sex worker).
Online:
- Dating Apps: Grindr and, Scruff, are popular platforms for connecting with gay men in your area. For trans people, dating apps geared towards meeting trans people are generally toxic and misleading.
- Dating Websites: Explore platforms like pinkCupid, PlentyOfFish, gayfriendlydating, which caters to progressive individuals, or eHarmony for those seeking serious relationships. Fetlife is for kinky minded people.
- Safety: Be cautious when meeting people online, avoid sharing personal information too soon, and verify profiles.
In Person:
- 2SLGBTQ+ Community Events: Attend pride parades, festivals, or local LGBTQ+ events to meet people in a social setting.
- Gay Bars: While Thunder Bay doesn’t have dedicated gay bars, many establishments are known to be LGBTQ+-friendly and welcoming. According to a Reddit thread, Black Pirates Pub is a popular spot with a welcoming atmosphere and drag shows. Lakehead Beer Co. also hosts trivia nights organized by drag queens, which can be a fun and social setting. Other options include Dawson Trail Craft Brewery, Bay Village Coffee, and Howl at the Moon (a sober bar). Becoming an occasional patron of a bar might lead to a chance meeting and possible friendship.
- Volunteer: Engage with LGBTQ+ organizations and volunteer groups to meet like-minded individuals.
- Hobbies: Join LGBTQ+ sports leagues or interest-based groups to connect with people who share your passions.
- Social Circles: Ask friends to introduce you to gay men they know, or explore events and social gatherings in your community.
Check out the 2SLGBTQIA+ Tourism TBay page to find other places to meet and find community.
Considerations:
- Location: Explore resources like travel blogs and websites or apps to find gay-friendly destinations if your local area is limited. We always recommend TheHomoculture as a wonderful travel blog.
- Shared Interests: Prioritize activities and events that align with your interests, as this increases the likelihood of meeting people with whom you share common ground.
