Black-Tie GayBINGO! Returns: A Philadelphia Legacy Continues

Executive Director of PhillyGayCalendar
Philadelphia’s most glamorous and meaningful LGBTQ+ fundraiser is back! Black-Tie GayBINGO!, a staple event in the fight against HIV/AIDS, returns on March 22, 2025, at the Loews Philadelphia Hotel. This year marks a historic transition, as Action Wellness takes over from AIDS Fund, ensuring that the legacy of this fabulous night continues for years to come.

The Legacy of GayBINGO!: More Than Just a Game



Since its launch in 1996, GayBINGO! has been much more than a night of outrageous fun—it has been a beacon of hope, activism, and community support. Created by AIDS Fund, the event blended humor, performance, and philanthropy to raise awareness and funds for HIV/AIDS programs in Philadelphia.

Over the years, GayBINGO! has welcomed tens of thousands of attendees, raised millions of dollars, and built a reputation as one of the city’s most beloved LGBTQ+ events. But it’s not just about BINGO—it’s about honoring those affected by HIV/AIDS, funding life-saving services, and creating a space where community, laughter, and advocacy intersect.

In 1999, organizers decided to elevate the event’s prestige by introducing Black-Tie GayBINGO!—a high-profile gala featuring a cocktail reception, seated dinner, silent auction, and, of course, legendary drag performances from the iconic Bingo Verifying Divas (BVDs).

A New Era: Action Wellness Takes the Torch



This year’s Black-Tie GayBINGO! is bittersweet—it marks the end of an era for AIDS Fund, which officially ceased operations in December 2024 after 35 years of groundbreaking work in HIV/AIDS advocacy.

But the mission continues. Action Wellness, Philadelphia’s largest HIV/AIDS service organization, has stepped up to continue the event’s legacy, ensuring that support for individuals living with HIV remains strong and steadfast.

“Black-Tie GayBINGO! is an event full of joy, affirmation, and love,” said Mary Evelyn Torres, Executive Director of Action Wellness. “It’s an opportunity to raise money and awareness about ending the HIV epidemic. This is our first year hosting the event, and we are proud to honor AIDS Fund’s incredible legacy.”

What to Expect at Black-Tie GayBINGO! 2025



Guests attending this year’s gala can look forward to a dazzling evening featuring:

A cocktail reception and seated dinner with a curated menu
Live entertainment and performances from Philadelphia’s legendary BVDs
Hilarious, over-the-top BINGO games hosted by Carlota Ttendant
A special tribute to AIDS Fund, with former Executive Director Robb Reichard accepting the 2025 Black-Tie GayBINGO! Community Award
A silent auction with fabulous prizes from local businesses, restaurants, and entertainment venues

Attendees are encouraged to come dressed to impress—this is, after all, one of the most fabulous nights on Philadelphia’s LGBTQ+ calendar!

Continuing the Fight: The Importance of HIV/AIDS Awareness



Beyond the sequins and celebrations, Black-Tie GayBINGO! carries a crucial mission: to fund services that support individuals living with HIV/AIDS. The fight against HIV is far from over, and events like this help ensure that no one faces their diagnosis alone.

Since its inception, GayBINGO! and Black-Tie GayBINGO! have raised over $4 million—a testament to Philadelphia’s unwavering dedication to LGBTQ+ health and well-being.

How to Get Involved



Tickets and sponsorship opportunities for Black-Tie GayBINGO! 2025 are now available. If you can’t attend, you can still support Action Wellness by donating or volunteering to keep this vital tradition alive.

For more information, visit Action Wellness and follow @actionwellnessphl on social media.

Let’s honor AIDS Fund’s legacy, celebrate our vibrant community, and keep the magic of GayBINGO! alive—one fabulous number at a time!

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