LGBTQ+ Picnic at Lake Merritt

Hey everyone! Join us for our Quietly Queer picnic on Saturday, September 19 at noon, just 3 days before the fall season starts! We’ll be gathering on the northside of Lake Merritt for an afternoon picnic, conversation, and community. Bring a blanket, a snack to share (if you’d like), or just yourself! Additionally, 1888 Coffee Station is just across the street from the park and will be open if you'd like to grab a coffee. This will be a casual, come-as-you-are gathering. There’s no agenda, no forced introductions, and no expectation to be “on” socially. Whether you’re a local, a recent transplant, looking to meet new people, catch up with familiar faces, or prefer to relax and hang, you’re welcome here. There will also be one optional communal activity: we’ll create a Queer Futuristic City together. A city map poster will serve as our blank canvas, where you can add a place, idea, service, or gathering space you’d love to see in a more queer-friendly future. Add as much or as little as you’d like, or simply hang out and see what everyone else comes up with. I’ll be wearing my usual Pride neckerchief, and we’ll also have QQ stickers! I’ll ask 2-3 returning members if they’ll be willing to wear one so there are a few friendly faces to look for when you arrive. They won’t have any hosting responsibilities, they’re simply there as familiar faces to help make finding the group a little easier. Here's the sticker you should look for. 🗓 Date & Time: Saturday, September 19, 12-2:30PM 📍 Location: Lake Merritt (on the northside near Edoff Memorial Bandstand) 💡 Vibe: Relaxed, friendly, and community-focused. All ages are welcome. Bring a sweater or jacket, picnic blanket, some water, a snack, and anything that helps you enjoy an afternoon outside. We'll have basic chips, dips, and cookies to share. Looking forward to spending more time together and meeting new faces! See you there.