A Memorable Weekend at Tanglewood: Music, Friendship, and Gay-Friendly Vibes

A Memorable Weekend at Tanglewood: Music, Friendship, and Gay-Friendly Vibes

Hey everyone! I just had the most incredible weekend attending Tanglewood for the very first time. For those unfamiliar, Tanglewood is an amazing music venue located in Lenox, Massachusetts, where the Boston Symphony Orchestra and Boston Pops perform during the summer. Although I live in Massachusetts, the drive to Tanglewood took nearly 3 hours, and let me tell you, it gets rural real fast. But trust me, the journey was absolutely worth it. Let me share my experience with you!

Journey On: Our purpose for visiting Tanglewood was to see a concert performance of the gorgeously composed Broadway musical, Ragtime. And let me tell you, it was phenomenal. What made it even more special was the fact that we knew a few of the actors and singers in the ensemble, as well as the associate director who did a fabulous job with the choreography. The concert's symphonic orchestration breathed new life into the musical, making it an unforgettable experience. I can gush on and on about how much I loved Elizabeth Stanley's performance as Mother, and how I was so dehydrated from literally sobbing the whole time- but this isn't a theatre review blog- YET!

Before the show even begins, regulars make attending a concert an EVENT. Folks will line up at the gates rearing to flood the grounds where they set up elaborate picnics before the concert begins. I'm not just talking about a checkered tablecloth on the ground either. I counted multiple candelabras and elegant table-scapes that would make Ina Garten proud! We were advised to stop at the local wine and cheese shop, Najaime's Wine Cellars to stock up on chilled wine and snacks beforehand and they had an awesome cheese-monger who let us taste some delish samples to help us decide. I just wish it was owned by Kathy Najime- but it isn't even spelled the same way!

I got this awesome picnic basket HERE a few years back and this was the perfect occasion to break it out.

Gay-Friendly Atmosphere: Now, let's address the big question: Is Tanglewood a gay-friendly destination? While it may not specifically cater to the LGBTQ+ community, I can confidently say that it is very gay-friendly. Perhaps it was due to the particular concert we attended, but we saw many LGBTQ+ individuals enjoying themselves at the concert and throughout the charming town of Lenox. It truly felt like a safe and inclusive space. We never had any concerns while dining together or exploring the town. The staff at Tanglewood were incredibly welcoming, and the overall atmosphere was warm and accepting.

A Fantastic Destination for All: If you're looking for something to do with friends and family, regardless of their sexual orientation, Tanglewood is a fantastic choice. It's a place where everyone can feel safe, proud, and empowered. The diverse crowd at Tanglewood comprises creative and artistic individuals, and it has an air of sophistication. It's the perfect destination to indulge in a bit of luxury and enjoy a bougie lifestyle for a weekend getaway. While we were only there for a quick weekend, we made a point of visiting the Norman Rockwell Museum. We kept saying how much our parent's would have enjoyed it. 

Final Thoughts: In conclusion, my weekend at Tanglewood was nothing short of extraordinary. The combination of breathtaking music, the camaraderie of friends, and the overall gay-friendly atmosphere made it a memorable experience. Tanglewood offers something for everyone, irrespective of their background or orientation. Whether you're a music enthusiast, an art lover, or simply seeking a place to connect with loved ones, Tanglewood checks all the boxes.

So, gather your loved ones, plan a trip to Tanglewood, and immerse yourself in the magic of music, friendship, and an inclusive environment. You won't be disappointed!

Check out some of my other blogs:

Vacationing on the coast of Maine

Training for Success at an LGBTQ+ Entrepreneur