By Amy Krzanik Tinder, Grindr, GROWLr, Match, Hinge, Scruff: No, this isn’t a long-lost e.e. cummings poem or a list of possible names for a new Brooklyn bar; it’s a list of dating sites and apps and there’s plenty more where they came from. But for all the sophisticated mating technology out there, singles are still finding it difficult to connect. Big Gay Hudson Valley is interested in changing that, by encouraging people to sign out of the virtual meat market and enter their real world “Meet Market." The monthly pop-up gay bar, which premiered this past January, is held at Canvas, the lounge adjacent to The Artist’s Palate restaurant in Poughkeepsie. With an ever-changing roster of international and local singers and cabaret acts, the evening is a fun way to catch a show, enjoy high-end cocktails and snacks, and possibly meet your match.
And the punny Meet Market name isn’t just a throwaway notion -- they went all the way with this theme. According to BGHV’s Stephan Hengst, the many Main Street butcher shops of Poughkeepsie’s past served as the inspiration. “We have a 1950 butcher shop aesthetic: the bartenders and bar backs wear red and white striped butcher’s outfits, the drink cases are decorated with real meat from the restaurant wrapped in paper and string, and there are giant vintage meat charts on the doors." Unlike a lot of bars and clubs, the scene at the Market is comprised of three separate areas with varying noise levels, some fit for dancing but also quieter spaces where it’s possible to hold a conversation. Hengst explains, “There’s a lounge up front with couches and tables, and a sea salt bar with great lighting and everyone looks good standing around that."
On the roster for the next Meet Market on Saturday, March 14 is Hedda Lettuce from NYC and Beacon, NY’s own DJ Booksmart who will spin before and after the show. With her luscious mane of bright green hair, six-time Drag Queen of the Year Award-winner Hedda will help the crowd celebrate an early St. Patrick’s Day.
The Meet Market: Pop-up Gay BarLocation: Canvas, 305 Main St., Poughkeepsie, NY Next event: Saturday, March 14 from 8 p.m. - Midnight, $10
