Every winter, from the early 1980s until the mid 2000s, Chicago lesbians came together for one reason and one reason alone: Capricorn season. Queer women from all over the land buzzed with excitement each and every January for the legendary Capricorn party. While drinking, dancing, and light debauchery ensued, this party was deeply rooted in ovation and celebration of a special, often overlooked community. It was the GOAT! And it didn’t take long for the fantastical annual gathering to become forever etched in local lesbian folklore.

In honor of history and heritage, let’s do this again! Sort of.

Come celebrate the return of the lesbian+ Capricorn party where ALL are welcome! Co-hosted with lesbian capricorns and community historians, Tracy Baim and Jennie Brier, we’re bringing it back for a new generation to preserve the history and culture of this event that provided a safe, happy, and festive space for, as a 2005 party invitation stated, “lesbians, bisexual women, groovy straight feminist women, transwomen, and drag kings.”  

$10 historic cover. Music courtesy of DJs Lori Branch and Vitigrrl. Tidbits of history will be shared. Maybe a game or two. Cash bar. All are welcome (21+).

A bit more history (because that’s what we do)…

The legendary Chicago lesbian Capricorn parties were started by Toni Armstrong Jr. and other Caps in the early 1980s. When Toni met fellow Jan. 12 Capricorn Tracy Baim in 1984, it was natural for them to turbo charge the parties into what became legendary January events.

The celebrations always took place in one of their homes. From Ashland Avenue, later to South Prairie Avenue and more, they finally stayed put for several years at Toni’s abode on Wayne in Andersonville. Much like other Chicago style house parties, there were multiple floors and party styles, including a Wheel of Debauchery, sex-toy demos, topless ping pong, lap dance lessons, and much more.

But as the matriarchal lesbians grew older and as Toni moved to Florida, the now historic gatherings sadly came to an end in the early 2000s.

Here’s a promo from the 2005 party:

 "The Early to Bed demo will start at 8pm sharp. Lap dancing lessons for beginners at 10pm. Bring your own drinks and some snacks to share. Bring slippers or sox if it's wet or salty outside. This is a party for lesbians, bisexual women, groovy straight feminist women, transwomen, and drag kings.”