Pop-Up queer bar nights

LGBTQ+ customers and allies buying drinks and tickets. The host venue may pay you, or share takings, because you bring in extra trade on quiet nights.

Usually a share of bar takings agreed with the venue, plus ticket or entry income, performer or sponsor fees and merchandise.

• Promoting events on social media and in local groups
• Booking performers, DJs and hosts
• Negotiating a fair deal with venues
• Looking after customers and keeping the night safe

• Alcohol must be sold under a valid licence. Check whether the venue's licence covers your event or whether you need a Temporary Event Notice, and check the limits with your council
• Public liability insurance for your events, and check what the venue's insurance covers
• Agree who handles door staff, safety, closing times and capacity limits
• Music licences, which the venue normally holds, but check if your event needs anything extra
• Reliance on one venue, so get your agreement in writing and keep your audience list for yourself

Estimates suggest startup costs are typically around £500 to £3,000, depending on your promotion, decorations, performer or DJ bookings, insurance and any notices or permissions your events need.

Estimated monthly revenue is typically around £1,000 to £5,000, depending on how often you run nights, ticket or drink sales, and any deal you agree with the host venue. Revenue is not the same as profit.

Check whether the venue's licence covers your event or whether you need a Temporary Event Notice, and check the limits with your council. Also check insurance, who handles door staff and capacity, and whether you need extra music licences.