Beyond the Velvet Ropes: Unearthing the Enduring Legacy of Iconic "Candy" Queer Havens
In the vibrant tapestry of LGBTQ+ history, certain establishments stand out not merely as venues, but as vital pillars of community, freedom, and self-expression.
They were more than just bars or clubs; they were sanctuaries where identities blossomed, artistry thrived, and connections were forged. Among the most legendary of these, two distinct "Candy" venues carved their indelible marks: the sophisticated Candy Store in New York City and the talent-rich Candy Shop in Columbia, South Carolina.
But what made these spaces so profoundly significant? And what lessons do their legacies offer us today?
The Candy Store, NYC: An Oasis of Uptown Elegance
Imagine New York City in the mid-20th century, a time when urban gay culture was burgeoning, yet many individuals still navigated the complexities of their lives largely in the shadows, particularly in professional settings.
For countless gay men, weekends offered a precious window of authenticity, a chance to shed the constraints of the closet and embrace their true selves. This yearning for genuine connection fueled a demand for spaces that offered more than just clandestine encounters; they sought community, entertainment, and a sense of belonging.
Enter The Candy Store, a celebrated institution nestled on West 56th Street between Fifth and Sixth Avenues.
Far from a typical cruising bar, this multi-story townhouse exuded an air of sophisticated charm and exclusivity. Picture a grand, sweeping staircase, reminiscent of an old Hollywood movie set, inviting patrons to make a dramatic entrance. The dress code was a testament to its upscale ambiance: ties and jackets were often required, signaling a departure from the more casual downtown haunts.
The Candy Store cultivated an atmosphere of elegant camaraderie.
It was a place where gay men could socialize openly, often accompanied by their cherished "fag-hag" friends, enjoying the refined setting without the constant pressure of overt sexual pursuit. While connections certainly happened, the primary draw was the unparalleled social scene, the chance to be seen, to converse, and to simply exist authentically in a beautiful, accepting environment.
It became a beloved destination for a diverse clientele seeking not just a night out, but a true experience.
Sundays at The Candy Store: A Sacred Ritual
Perhaps no day encapsulated the spirit of The Candy Store more profoundly than Sunday. For many in the gay community, Sunday was a dedicated holiday, a "gay-licious" day to unwind and reconnect.
The Candy Store elevated this ritual to an art form, becoming famous for its elaborate Sunday offerings. Initially, many bars across the city began providing complimentary buffets, ranging from the truly basic to surprisingly impressive spreads. The Candy Store, however, took this concept to a new level.
Beyond the delightful (and sometimes surprisingly lavish) public buffets, The Candy Store hosted exclusive, invitation-only Sunday evening affairs on its third floor.
Here, guests were treated to impeccable service from uniformed waiters, real silverware, gourmet food, and proper champagne - not the typical cheap swill found elsewhere. These gatherings fostered an intimate sense of community, a shared moment of luxury and acceptance that was rare and deeply cherished.
The Candy Store wasn't just a place to see and be seen; it was a sanctuary where gay men and their allies could truly exhale, finding freedom and connection in an era when such spaces were a lifeline.
These Sunday rituals extended beyond the physical confines of the bar, integrating seamlessly with other iconic New York City gay traditions.
After a leisurely brunch or a refined Candy Store experience, many would venture to Central Park, particularly the Bethesda Fountain area, which transformed into a dazzling promenade of outlandish fashion and style. This vibrant spectacle, often accompanied by bongo drums and street photographers, served as an open-air celebration of queer individuality, a flamboyant counterpoint to the city's more subdued weekdays.
Further north, the Rambles, particularly "Fairy Meadow," offered a more secluded, natural setting for picnicking, sunning, and intimate gatherings, embodying another facet of Sunday freedom.
The Candy Shop, Columbia, SC: A Southern Hub of Talent and Community
While The Candy Store reigned in New York City's sophisticated scene, another "Candy" venue made its profound impact in the American South: The Candy Shop in Columbia, South Carolina.
Though considerably smaller in scale - sometimes packing fifty people meant it was bursting at the seams, and the dressing room could barely hold ten performers - its influence far outstripped its humble infrastructure. The Candy Shop was a powerhouse of talent and a crucial hub for the local LGBTQ+ community, especially for Black individuals seeking a safe and vibrant space.
The club quickly developed a sterling reputation for its premier entertainment, particularly its drag shows.
It became a cornerstone for aspiring performers, with seasoned show directors mentoring dozens of young artists who would go on to achieve significant recognition. Among its notable alumni is Dorae Saunders, the acclaimed trans drag star who captivated audiences as an America's Got Talent quarterfinalist, having seen her very first drag show at The Candy Shop in the mid-2000s.
The Candy Shop also hosted highly anticipated pageant competitions, crowning both Mister Candy Shop and Miss Candy Shop titles, celebrating presentation, swimwear, talent, and elegance.
These events not only showcased local talent but also provided significant community milestones, fostering a sense of pride and shared identity.
What truly distinguished The Candy Shop was its dedication to community accessibility. While many downtown clubs closed early, The Candy Shop kept its doors open late, often becoming the go-to after-hours destination.
Patrons would spill out into the parking lot after the final curtain call, continuing the camaraderie for another hour or more, creating an extended sense of belonging and kinship. This unpretentious, welcoming atmosphere made it a favorite not just for the Black queer community, but also for non-Black allies and patrons seeking authentic connection and top-tier entertainment.
The enduring legacy of The Candy Shop is now being recognized through initiatives like Historic Columbia's "We're Here!
LGBTQ+ Columbia" project, which highlights the city's rich queer history. This research not only documents the club's significance but also connects it to the broader historical lineage of female impersonators on the city's minstrel and vaudeville stages, underscoring The Candy Shop's role as a vital link in a long tradition of queer artistic expression.
More Than Just Venues: Enduring Community Pillars
Whether it was the elegant sophistication of The Candy Store in bustling New York City or the raw talent and deep community roots of The Candy Shop in Columbia, both establishments transcended their physical spaces.
They were far more than places to grab a drink; they were indispensable havens where LGBTQ+ individuals could navigate a world that often sought to marginalize them. These "Candy" spots provided crucial opportunities for:
- Authentic Self-Expression: A chance to be truly oneself, free from societal judgment and the demands of the closet.
- Community Building: Fostering deep connections, friendships, and chosen families in a supportive environment.
- Artistic Platforms: Providing stages for drag queens, cabaret performers, and musicians to hone their craft and entertain.
- Historical Anchors: Serving as vital gathering points that helped shape and define queer culture in their respective eras.
- Resilience and Resistance: Quietly, yet powerfully, asserting the existence and vibrancy of the LGBTQ+ community.
The need for such spaces, for places where one knows they are not alone, where they can feel seen and celebrated, remains as critical today as it was decades ago.
The legacies of The Candy Store and The Candy Shop remind us that these establishments weren't just businesses; they were living, breathing monuments to resilience, creativity, and the unwavering human desire for belonging. Their stories are a testament to the power of community to build sanctuaries, foster identity, and ultimately, change the world, one fabulous night at a time.