Gay men can now network in a fun, friendly way over craft brews once a month.
Through an event called Proud to Be Funky, participants meet up at Oakland Park's Funky Buddha as a way to make new friends and meet potential partners. Those attending wear a set theme color for the night previously stated in the event the month before or in the Facebook invite. This is to make it easier for others to find the group.
Proud to Be Funky was started by Stephen Grubb. “I am a big fan of the Funky Buddha Brewery in Oakland Park, and that's why I organized a monthly get together there with my friends,” Grubb said. “I organized the gatherings on Facebook, and encouraged my friends to invite their friends to build up the group. The response has been fantastic, with usually around 30-40 people showing up for each event. The Funky Buddha staff always reserves a few tables for us.”
The Funky Buddha includes beer, cider and wine. Although the brewery does not serve meals, the various food trucks outside serve tacos, hot dogs and more. Aside from its 30-barrel, three-piece brewhouse, there is a game room that includes oversized Jenga, cornhole, and other fun games. First opening in June 2013, the brewery is relatively new and is the largest brewery in South Florida.
Grubb is nonetheless thrilled about the success of the event. “People attending have had overwhelmingly positive things to say about this event. The Funky Buddha Brewery is the perfect location, and it's easy to carry on a conversation without loud music blasting in your ear. Plus, there's always a food truck out front if you get the munchies. Special thanks goes to Funky Buddha for always making us feel welcome.”
The best part about Proud to Be Funky? Participants don’t have to sign up and can spontaneously attend at no cost. Well, except for all those beers you buy. As Grubb says, it is “a monthly escape from the island of Wilton Manors to make new friends and catch up with old friends.”
The next event is November 4th with orange and brown as the rather appropriately themed colors for the evening.
These events occur the first Tuesday every month from 7-9:30 p.m. at the Funky Buddha Brewery located at 1201 NE 38th Street Oakland Park.
For more information, visit https://www.facebook.com/events/330051423839836/.
The suggested dress code for the rest of the year are:
November: Orange and/or Brown (Autumnal)
December: Red and/or Green (Christmas)
January: Bright Blue for a Bright New Year
February: Purple and/or Yellow (Mardi Gras)
March: Green (St. Patrick's Day)
April: Pastels (Easter)
May: Green and/or Red (Cinco de Mayo)
June: Red
July: Red and/or Blue (Independence Day)
August: White
September: Gray
October: Orange and/or Black (Halloween)
