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A New Chapter for Friends of Dorothy: Embracing Change in Kelowna
As the calendar turns to 2026, a beloved institution in Downtown Kelowna is preparing to undergo a significant transformation. Friends of Dorothy, the Okanagan's first 2SLGBTQIA+ cocktail lounge, has announced that it will be under new ownership, marking the end of an era filled with vibrant LGBTQIA+ celebrations and community gatherings.
The Legacy of Friends of Dorothy
Friends of Dorothy, which opened its doors nearly six years ago, not only established itself as a lounge but also created a safe haven for the queer community in Kelowna. It has been a space where individuals could come together, share their stories, and take part in celebrations of identity and self-expression. From drag shows that filled the room with laughter and excitement to quiet conversations over cocktails, this lounge has been a cornerstone of queer culture in the Okanagan.
The outgoing owners expressed their heartfelt gratitude to the loyal patrons, performers, and staff who have shaped the bustling atmosphere into a welcoming home. “Your support has been integral to our journey, and we are endlessly grateful,” they shared, encouraging the community to join in celebrating the memories made within these walls as they approach the final day under current ownership.
A Vision for the Future
The transition is set to take place on January 1, 2026, when Dustyn Baulkham, the lounge's general manager, will take over as its new owner. Baulkham is a noteworthy figure in the local LGBTQIA+ landscape, known for his involvement with Kelowna Pride and his founding of Rebellious Unicorns, ensuring that the lounge remains deeply rooted in the community it serves. “This transition isn’t an ending; it's a continuation of a legacy,” he stated, asserting the commitment to nurturing an independent queer-owned space.
The New Identity: Unicorn Lounge
With new ownership comes a fresh identity. Friends of Dorothy will be rebranded as Unicorn Lounge, aligning with Baulkham’s ethos of inclusivity and celebration of the queer community. This name change reflects a broader vision that includes modernized interiors and revamped menus, aiming to enhance the overall experience for patrons. While January will see gradual updates and reduced hours, a grand reopening is planned for February, promising to usher in a new era filled with innovation and joy.
Cultural Significance
This evolution comes during a time when many in the queer community are seeking spaces to affirm their identities and connect with others, particularly as discussions around inclusivity and representation intensify. The new changes at Unicorn Lounge are not just about drinks and entertainment; they are part of a broader cultural dialogue that champions diversity within the community. Celebrating queer voices and stories will continue to be at the forefront of the lounge's mission.
Join the Celebration
As Friends of Dorothy prepares to bid farewell, patrons are encouraged to visit and take part in the farewell festivities leading up to New Year's Eve, a fitting close to a beloved chapter in Kelowna's nightlife. The sense of chosen family that this space has fostered epitomizes the power of community at its finest, where every visit continues to uphold the spirit of love, acceptance, and celebration.
The significance of this transition not only marks a change in ownership but a renewed commitment to the values of connection, inclusivity, and celebration that Friends of Dorothy instilled over the years. It will be exciting to see how Unicorn Lounge carries this legacy forward, ensuring the heart of the community beats strong into the future.
You Can Be Part of This Journey
As the new year begins and the transformations unfold, residents of Kelowna are invited to witness this evolution and support local venues that celebrate diversity. Engaging with local businesses like Unicorn Lounge enriches community ties, bolstering an inclusive environment where everyone can feel at home. Whether you’re revisiting cherished memories at Friends of Dorothy or exploring this new chapter, your participation is vital in sustaining the vibrancy of Kelowna’s LGBTQIA+ community.
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