Pop-up LGBTQ+ bar nights

LGBTQ+ locals and allies buying tickets or drinks, plus the host venue and sponsors who benefit from a busy night.

Ticket or cover charges, a share of bar sales agreed with the venue, and sponsorship or vendor fees. Costs include performers, DJs, promotion and security.

• Promotion and social media
• Event organizing
• Negotiating with venues and performers

• Alcohol rules: check whether the venue's licence covers your event or if you need a special occasion permit in your province
• Event liability insurance, and whether the venue requires you to carry it
• Safety and security plans, including a clear code of conduct and trained door staff
• Written agreements with venues on bar share, ticket revenue and cancellation
• Inconsistent turnout, particularly in winter weather, so keep costs flexible
• Check HST/GST registration once your revenue passes the small supplier threshold

Startup costs are typically around $1,000 to $8,000, depending on venue deals, entertainers, promotion and insurance. These are estimates, so get quotes for your own plan. Keeping costs flexible helps, since turnout can be inconsistent, particularly in winter weather.

Monthly revenue is typically around $800 to $4,000, depending on ticket prices, bar share, turnout and how often you run nights. These are estimates, not guarantees. Plan for about 8 hours a week at minimum.

Check whether the venue's licence covers your event or if you need a special occasion permit in your province. Also check event liability insurance, safety and security plans, written venue agreements, and HST/GST registration once revenue passes the small supplier threshold.