Event Dates
From: Awaiting dates
To: Awaiting dates
IML, International Mr Leather 2027
IML, the International Mister Leather Competition is one of the biggest leather/fetish events in the world.
IML – International Mr Leather 2027
Chicago plays host to what has become one of the biggest leather and fetish events on the calendar running for over 40 years and attracting thousands of guys from around the world for this weekend of parties, and the crowning of International Mr Leather.
The Event
- Next Edition: Awaiting dates.
- Events include wide range of events in the official host hotel, a series of official nightly circuit parties and fetish events, plus a series of un-official parties featuring some of the biggest party names including Furball and Brut.
- Memorial Day Weekend (Falls on Monday 31st May in 2027).
The Venues
- The majority of the activities take place within the host hotel, which this year is the Congress Plaza Hotel! , located close to all the city's major attractions. It sells out months in advance.
- Other nearby hotels just under an 3 min taxi / 8 minute walk to the host hotel include:
Le Meridien Essex Chicago – Fabulous 4 star hotel with great views. Recently renovated.
Sonder l The Plymouth – 3 Star, close to the host hotel but in a quiet neighbourhood, excellent facilities.
Hotel Blake – Superb 4 star, stunning rooms, Our editor stayed here in 2021. Highly recommended.IML Chicago Official Parties
The following events take place during the IML celebrations. Some are official, some are independent. Dates to be confirmed.
- Saturday – House of Leather – Official Party at the Congress Hotel.
- Sunday – IML Victory Party – Official event at House of Blues.
- Monday – The Black and Blue Ball – Official party.
GKL – Global Kink & Leather (GKL)
- From: Awaiting dates
- Global Kink & Leather (GKL) launched as a new-scale leather and kink convention-weekend in Chicago in 2026.
- We await updates for 2027. Events included a Circuit Mom IML Takeover at Charlies – Welcome Party, the Brut Chicago Opening Party and several other themed events.
Other Parties
- Saturday – Furball – Joe Fiore's international jock and gear party.
- Sunday – Cuntea – A traditional afternoon tea dance with a fetish vibe at Fantasy Night Club.
After Parties
- Luxuria After Dark hosts three after parties during the IML weekend at Baton Bristo & Lounge.
- Complete with (Dark room space, both rooms open, coat check, and light breakfast/snack spread).
- Parties run from Saturday to Monday Saturday –4 am to 9 am.
IML Chicago Events Program Highlights
Awaiting the full program for the 2027 edition.
Official Venues
- Congress Plaza Hotel Chicago: A historic hotel with 871 rooms, offering amenities such as a fitness center, on-site dining, event spaces. Situated in the Loop district. Approximately 3 mis south of Boystow,na5-minute taxi ride.
- The Vic Theatre: A grand old theatre in Lakeview – steps from Boystown – with balcony views, big-stage energy and a crowd that fills it fast on event nights.
- The Riviera Theatre: Located in Chicago's historic Uptown theater district, the Riviera Theatre has been a central part of Chicago's entertainment scene for over 100 years.
- Jackhammer Chicago: Gay bar and nightclub featuring a dance floor, sports bar, and leather-themed area, offering a judgment-free space for diverse LGBTQIA+ communities. Lod in the Rogers Park district. 10 miles north of Boystown, a 25-minute taxi ride.
Other Venues
- Charlie's Chicago: A western-ed gay bar and nightclub with dance floor and live entertainment. Located in the Lakeview district. Roughly 1 mile south of Boystown, a 5-minute taxi ride.
- Never Have I Ever Chicago: A gay friendly bar and lounge offering a relaxed atmosphere with games and themed events. Located in the Lakeview district. Approximately 1 mile south of Boystown, a 5-minute taxi ride.
Where to stay in Gay Chicago
The host hotel is a 20 minute drive from Boystown, the traditional gay neighbourhood of Chicago.If you want to stay close to Boystown/ Northalsted try the Majestic Hotel on West Brompton, or the Hotel Zachary on North Clark Street.
Check out the top 10 hotels in Lakeview for more options.
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Where we stay!
The Hyatt Regency is close to all the main
events & offers superior rooms & service.
Official Website
For further information and advice on
International Mister Leather Website
Gay Map of Chicago
The area in Chicago with the most gay bars is Boys town offering over 20 bar, we have chosen hotels close to this area that have good revues on bookings.
Address: 108 E Superior St, Chicago, IL 60611
- Luxury hotel right off the Magnificent Mile in Chicago.
- Exceptional service and high-end amenities throughout.
- Rooms are spacious for downtown Chicago, with premium comforts.
- Excellent spa, indoor pool and fine dining on-site.
- Top choice for indulgence in Chicago.
- Website
Address: 21 E Bellevue Pl, Chicago,
- Boutique luxury hotel in Chicago’s Loop with Art Deco flair.
- Stylish rooms with modern amenities and generous bathrooms.
- Central location near business districts and cultural sites.
- On-site restaurant and rooftop bar elevate the experience.
- Ideal for travellers seeking sophistication and convenience.
- Website
Address:
- Luxury boutique hotel in the heart of Chicago’s Loop.
- Stylish interiors combining historic architecture and modern design.
- Rooms are well-appointed and service is highly rated.
- Fantastic location for sightseeing, dining and transit.
- Solid choice for comfort and style.
- Website
Address: 10 S Wabash Ave, Chicago,
- Boutique luxury hotel in the heart of the Loop.
- Historic character blended with modern comfort.
- Spacious, stylish rooms with premium touches.
- Warm, attentive service throughout the stay.
- Ideal base for exploring downtown Chicago.
- Website
Address: 933 West Belmont Avenue Chicago
- Boutique hotel located in Lakeview/Boystown near nightlife.
- Modern rooms with premium bedding, mini-fridge and free WiFi.
- Friendly, helpful staff and a welcoming atmosphere.
- Excellent location for dining, drinks and local culture.
- Great value for travellers seeking comfort and centrality in Chicago.
- Website
Address: 3434 North Broadway Chicago
- Well-located hotel in Chicago’s River near major attractions.
- Friendly service, clean rooms and good value for money.
- Comfortable amenities including rooftop deck/pool add appeal.
- Accessible to transit and dining—ideal for both business and leisure.
- Reliable choice for a convenient downtown stay.
- Website
Address: 528 West Brompton Avenue Chicago
- Boutique hotel in Lakeview East near Wrigley Field.
- Fresh, comfortable rooms with modern touches.
- Warm lobby with a relaxed, welcoming feel.
- Close to the lakefront and neighbourhood dining.
- Good value stay in a charming Chicago location.
- Website
Address: 3439 North Halsted Street Chicago
- Gay bar in Boystown with craft beer, bourbon and free arcade games.
- Strong social atmosphere with mixed local and visiting crowd.
- Casual yet energetic—starts early and runs late.
- Great choice for drinks, games and hangout rather than full clubbing.
- Reliable spot in Chicago’s gay nightlife scene for a fun evening out.
- Open: Daily 2pm-2am Friday & Saturday 2pm-3am
- Website
Address: 3359 North Halsted Street Chicago
- Gay bar-club in Boystown with large dance floor and bold décor.
- Craft beers, cocktails and lively themed nights.
- International gay crowd, friendly staff and social vibe.
- Spacious layout and standout design under cloud-style ceiling.
- Strong choice for a fun, energetic gay night out in Chicago.
- Open: Tuesday–Thursday 5pm–2am, Friday 4pm–2am
- Saturday 3pm–3am, Sunday 1pm–2am
Address: 3452 North Halsted Street Chicago
- Gay cocktail lounge in Boystown.
- Stylish space with a relaxed mood.
- Excellent crafted drinks and service.
- Great for conversation and social time.
- Strong pick for quality gay nights out.
- Open: Sunday–Thursday 6pm–2am,
- Friday 5pm–4am Saturday 5pm–5am
Address: 3729 North Halsted Street Chicago
- Gay bar in Boystown with warm neighbourhood energy.
- Karaoke nights and great drink specials.
- Fun mix of locals and visitors.
- Lively, social atmosphere into the night.
- Great spot for a relaxed, friendly gay evening out.
- Open: Monday–Friday 3pm–2am Saturday 12pm-3am
- Sunday 12pm–2am
Address: 3325 North Broadway Street Chicago
- lesbian bar with strong community roots in Chicago’s Boystown.
- Welcoming vibe, friendly staff and late-night hours.
- Karaoke/video-bar entertainment and casual drinks.
- Ideal for socialising rather than intense clubbing.
- Reliable choice for a comfortable, fun gay night out.
- Open: Monday–Friday 4pm–4am, Saturday 12pm–3am
- Sunday 12pm–2am
- Website
Address:
- Gay bar with western-country theme in Boystown.
- Drag shows, karaoke and line dancing drive the vibe.
- Lively, social crowd and strong late-night energy.
- Located in Chicago’s LGBTQ+ hub for easy nightlife access.
- Great for a fun, high-energy gay night out.
- Open: Daily 3pm–4am, Saturday 3pm–5am
- Website
Address:
- Gay bar in Boystown with a relaxed sports atmosphere.
- Friendly mix of locals and visitors.
- Pool tables, darts and plenty of screens.
- Casual setting with long opening hours.
- Ideal spot for social drinks in the neighbourhood.
- Open: Daily 11am–2am, Saturday 11am–3am, Sunday 11am–2am
Address: 3320 North Halsted Street Chicago
- Gay bar with vibrant themed nights and strong music.
- Vintage-inspired décor and a lively, diverse crowd.
- Great drink specials kick off the evening.
- Popular weekend destination in the gay district.
- Excellent choice for party-focused nights out.
- Open: Daily 8pm–2am, Sunday: 2pm–2am
Address: 3339 N Halsted St, Chicago
- Lively LGBTQ+ venue known for drag shows and themed events.
- Multiple bar areas and a dedicated dance zone for party energy.
- Located on North Halsted Street, central to Chicago’s queer nightlife.
- Friendly, inclusive crowd and strong nightlife appeal.
- Excellent for a bold night out with early start and long hours.
- Open: Monday–Wednesday 5 pm–close,
- Thursday & Friday 5 pm–2 am. Saturday 3 pm–3 am.
- Sunday 3 pm–close.
Address:
- Long-running male dancer venue in Chicago’s main gay district.
- Nightly shows attract regulars and out-of-towners alike.
- Music leans upbeat with a friendly, mixed-age crowd.
- Front bar feels intimate, stages add a lively contrast.
- Still a key stop on the Northalsted nightlife circuit.
- Open: Daily 6pm-2am, 6pm-3am Fri & Sat
- Website
Address: 3702 North Halsted Street Chicago
- Long-running leather venue in Northalsted.
- Front section is relaxed with games and conversation.
- Back space caters to the leather crowd late into the night.
- Music and drinks are straightforward and unfussy.
- Still an anchor of Chicago’s gay leather scene.
- Open: Daily 1pm-2am, Saturday 12pm-3am, Sunday 12pm-2am
Address: 3458 North Halsted Street Chicago
- High-energy gay nightclub in Chicago’s Northalsted district.
- Known for late nights, packed floors and busy weekends.
- Drag shows and guest DJs drive the programme.
- Inclusive crowd, mostly male but mixed.
- Still one of the biggest late-night players in the area.
- Open: Monday 8pm-4am, Thursday 8pm-4am
Friday 6:30pm-4am, Saturday 6:30pm-5am
Sunday 2pm-4am, (Tuesday Wednesday Closed)
Address: 3356 North Halsted Street Chicago
- Gay bar known for drag shows and late dancing.
- Early evenings feel relaxed before the crowds build.
- Weekends are lively with DJs and themed nights.
- Popular with both locals and travellers.
- Still going strong in the Northalsted strip.
- Open: Monday to Thursday 5pm-2am
- Friday 5pm-2/3am, Saturday 2pm-3am
- Website
Address:
- Sidetrack is a landmark gay venue in Northalsted.
- Famous for frozen cocktails and big video screens.
- Drag shows and themed nights shape the weekly programme.
- Spacious layout with indoor zones and a rooftop.
- Weekends grow loud, colourful and fun.
- Open: Monday–Friday 3pm-2am, Saturday 1pm-3am,
- Sunday 12pm-2am
Address:
- Wang’s is a cosy cocktail lounge in Lakeview.
- The room is dim, plush and intimate.
- Signature cocktails anchor the menu.
- A calm start before the louder venues nearby.
- A gay bar with an elegant, low-key mood.
- Open: Monday–Thursday 4pm-11pm, Friday–Saturday 4pm-12am
- Sunday 4pm-11pm
Recommended Hotels in Chicago By Booking
Book with confidence. Get the best Prices from our partner Booking.com
We have chosen hotels in Chicago that keep you close to all the shops, restaurants & bars
The Peninsula Chicago
5 Star, Luxury
- 5 Star, Asian-Inspired Spa
- A short walk to the gay bars
- Spacious luxury, city views
- Luxurious Magnificent Mile location, Asian-inspired spa, award-winning dining, & city-view rooms.
The Silversmith Hotel
4 Star, Readers Choice
- 4 Star, Theater District Proximity
- A short taxi ride to the gay bars
- Contemporary design, refrigerator
- Ideal for theater & financial district visits, contemporary rooms, & close to major attractions.
Gray Hotel Chicago
4 Star, Great Value
- 4 Star, Rooftop Latin Cuisine
- A short taxi ride to the gay bars
- iPod dock, luxury bath
- Stay for the rooftop views, Latin-inspired cocktails, & rooms with iPod docks & luxury baths.
Thompson Chicago
4 Star, Location
- 4 Star, Steps from Michigan Avenue
- A short walk to the gay bars
- Modern guest room, mini bar
- Perfect for Michigan Avenue shopping & dining, modern rooms with minibars, in a boutique setting.
Video Gay Chicago Guide
Two gay expats explore the best of gay Chicago.
Top Gay Neighbourhoods in Chicago
Chicago, affectionately known as the “Windy City,” is a must-visit destination for LGBTQ+ travellers seeking a vibrant, welcoming, and diverse experience. The city is home to Northalsted (formerly Boystown), one of the first officially recognized gay villages in the United States. Remember, Chicago has an efficient public transit system, so you'll have easy access to all the city offers no matter where you stay.
Northalsted | The Gay Village
Photo: Chicago's Northalsted has a bar for all types and tastes.
- Located in the Lakeview East neighbourhood of Chicago, 5 miles north of downtown Chicago, or what locals refer to as “The Loop”.
- Northalsted is a hub for LGBTQ+ life and culture in Chicago, hosting Market Days and Chicago Pride.
- Easy to get to from downtown via public transit, 30 minutes by the CTA “L” train's Red or Brown lines.
- Discover the best things to see and do in Chicago
The Loop
The heart of Chicago's downtown and home to some of its most iconic landmarks with great hotels.
Magnificent Mile
Home to high-end hotels, shops & restaurants, the place for those who want to be in the middle of the action.
River North
A great place to stay if you're a foodie or a fan of the arts, and close to the city's best shopping.
Andersonville
Located to the north of Lakeview,filled with unique, locally-owned businesses and a quirky atmosphere.
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