10 Ways to Kick Off the New Year
a guide to Your BeSt Start Yet
Edited by Mikkel Hyldebrandt
As the calendar resets and a new year dawns, it’s the perfect time to reflect, refresh, and recharge. For the LGBTQ+ community, stepping into January with intention and self-love can mean setting a powerful tone for the year ahead. From nurturing your physical and mental health to cultivating meaningful connections, here’s how to embrace the best possible start to the new year.
1. Set goalS WitH SelF-coMPaSSion
Forget the pressure of lofty, unattainable resolutions. Instead, think about meaningful changes that feel authentic to you. Want to hit the gym more often? Fantastic!
But don’t let perfectionism weigh you down—progress is key. Journaling, vision boards, or even a simple “word of the year” can help you stay motivated while leaving room for flexibility and growth.
2. Prioritize Mental HealtH
After the whirlwind of the holidays, it’s essential to take time to decompress and refocus. Carve out moments to check in with yourself. Therapy, meditation apps, or joining local LGBTQ+ support groups are great ways to manage stress and feel supported. Remember, mental health is just as vital as physical health—and starting the year with
clarity will help you tackle whatever comes next.
3. reclaiM Your SPace
Your surroundings affect your mindset, so consider starting the year with a fresh perspective. Declutter your living space, rearrange furniture, or add new décor that reflects your personality. Small changes—like a new plant, artwork by a queer creator, or even colorful throw pillows—can make your home feel like a sanctuary.
4. FocuS on FitneSS and Well-Being
Fitness goals can often feel overwhelming, but they don’t have
to be. Start small: take up yoga, join a queer-friendly fitness class, or make it a point to get outside for a daily walk. Movement should feel good, not like a chore. Pair this with mindful eating—finding ways to nourish yourself while enjoying foods you love—and you’ll feel energized and empowered.
5. celeBrate Your identitY
The new year is a chance to fully embrace who you are and express it unapologetically. Whether that means exploring your style, diving into LGBTQ+ literature and art, or connecting with your community, lean into what brings you joy. Supporting queer-owned businesses or attending events tailored for our community is a great way to amplify voices and foster connection.
6. StrengtHen Your SuPPort SYSteM
Chosen family is an anchor for many in the LGBTQ+ community. Use the new year to strengthen these bonds, whether by planning weekly get-togethers, hosting game nights, or simply sending a thoughtful message. Connection is a two-way street, so make sure to show up for others as much as you hope they’ll show up for you.
7. Set BoundarieS
As empowering as the start of a new year can be, it’s also a time to reevaluate relationships and habits
that no longer serve you. Setting boundaries—be it with loved ones, work, or even yourself—can help protect your energy and ensure you’re living authentically.
8. engage in activiSM and giving Back
A fresh year is also a chance to reflect on how you can contribute to the causes you care about. Whether you volunteer at an LGBTQ+ nonprofit, attend a protest, or donate to a mutual aid fund, giving back can be deeply fulfilling. Use this as an opportunity to both impact your community and find purpose in your actions.
9. eMBrace JoY and PlaY
Life can feel heavy, but joy is a form of resistance. Make time for things that bring you happiness—whether it’s dancing at a queer club, bingewatching your favorite LGBTQ+ shows, or taking a weekend trip with friends. Laughter and play are essential for keeping spirits high.
10. Plan aHead For MileStoneS
Mark your calendar with events that excite you, like Pride festivals, LGBTQ+ film screenings, or local queer market days. Having things to look forward to throughout the year can keep you inspired and connected.
New Year, New Underwear
By Phillip Bessemer
All Photos courtesy of Mounderwear
Mounderwear, the innovative athletic wear brand, is kicking off 2025 with a bold new men’s underwear collection crafted by the gay reality TV star and pop sensation On Mekahel. Known for his trendsetting style and empowering messages, Mekahel’s creations combine fashion, comfort, and functionality, offering men a fresh way to start the year with confidence.
This vibrant line showcases sleek designs, breathable fabrics, and body-positive cuts, catering to men of all shapes and sizes. The pieces feature moisture-wicking materials ideal for workouts, lounging, or everyday wear, seamlessly blending performance and style. The gear’s striking logo band and the collection’s matching socks remind wearers to celebrate their unique journey every day.
For Mekahel, the new year’s offerings are deeply personal. “I want every man to feel their best—inside and out,” he shares. “This collection isn’t just about underwear; it’s about building confidence and owning your power as you step into 2025.”
The gear arrives just in time to support New Year’s resolutions, offering the perfect foundation for men looking to elevate their wardrobes and their mindsets. The line is more than just a fashion statement; it’s a call to action for self-care and self-love.
It’s time to redefine what it means to feel good from the inside out— one pair at a time.
Visit Mounderwear.com
Photos by: Russ Bowen-Youngblood
Photos by: Russ Bowen-Youngblood
Pride Journey: Park City, Utah A Mountain Haven of LGBTQ Inclusivity
By Joey Amato
Nestled in the Wasatch Mountains of Utah, Park City is a gem for outdoor enthusiasts, history buffs, and those seeking a worldclass dining and relaxation experience. Originally a silver mining town, it has evolved into one of the most popular destinations in the United States, offering not just worldclass ski resorts and summer outdoor activities, but also a rich blend of culture, fine dining, and leisure. Whether you are planning a winter getaway, visiting the renowned Sundance Film Festival, or just a weekend escape, Park City offers something for everyone. Among the many things that make it a premier destination are events like the Park City Wine Fest.
Park City Wine Fest is a premier event that draws wine lovers from across the country. Held annually, this multi-day festival is a celebration of fine wines from around the globe, paired with the breathtaking backdrop of the mountains. The event is perfect for both wine connoisseurs and casual drinkers alike, offering something for every palate.
The Wine Fest is not just about tasting a wide variety of wines; it also showcases local cuisine, with restaurants and chefs from Park City presenting gourmet dishes that complement the wines. Wine education is another key aspect of the event, with seminars led by sommeliers, winemakers, and wine experts who share their knowledge on everything from pairing wine with food to understanding different wine regions.
The festival is a true highlight in Park City’s event calendar, combining the beauty of the location with a sophisticated, yet relaxed vibe. Attendees can explore a variety of experiences, including scenic mountain hikes paired with wine tastings, grand tastings at the base of Park City Mountain Resort, and intimate, wine-paired dinners, like the one I attended at the beautiful Waldorf Astoria. The Rustic Reds dinner was
a wonderfully sophisticated wine-paired feast led by Wine Academy of Utah’s Jim Santangelo. The fivecourse meal began with a delicious amuse-bouche followed by beef tartare, endive salad, filet mignon and chocolate cake, each paired perfectly with a glass of wine hand selected by Santangelo.
For those who appreciate fine dining, Park City is home to a variety of outstanding restaurants, with Edge Steakhouse being one of the best. Located in the Westgate Park City Resort & Spa, Edge Steakhouse blends traditional steakhouse fare with an innovative approach to cooking. Known for its exceptional service, high-quality cuts of meat, and fresh seafood, this restaurant offers a dining experience that is both luxurious and satisfying.
What sets Edge Steakhouse apart is its attention to detail. The restaurant’s menu features a variety of cuts, from Wagyu beef to dry-aged steaks, all expertly prepared to perfection. Additionally, Edge offers an extensive wine list, making it easy to find the perfect pairing for your meal. The
combination of excellent food, a sophisticated atmosphere, and top-notch service has earned Edge Steakhouse numerous awards and recognitions, making it a must-visit for any foodie in Park City.
No visit to Park City would be complete without a stop at High West Distillery, the first legally licensed distillery in Utah since Prohibition. High West offers a unique experience, blending the old-world charm of the American West with modern-day distilling techniques. Located in the heart of downtown Park City, High West is known for its award-winning whiskeys, but it’s also a fantastic place to grab a bite to eat.
High West’s rustic atmosphere is part of its charm, and the distillery offers a range of whiskey varieties, from smooth bourbons to bold ryes, all made using timehonored methods. In addition to tastings, visitors can take tours of the distillery to learn about the history of whiskey-making in Utah and the art of distillation. I had the chance to attend an elegant Woodland Masquerade at the distillery in Wanship, a quick 20-minute drive from Park City. The event contained entertainment, delicious food and of course whiskey.
Park City isn’t just about great food and drinks – it’s also a haven for those looking to relax and recharge. One of the standout lodging options in Park City is LIFT Park City, a modern mountain resort located in the heart of Canyons Village. LIFT offers luxury accommodations with a contemporary design, providing guests with all the comforts of home while being just steps away from world-class skiing, hiking, and biking trails.
LIFT Park City is designed with both relaxation and adventure in mind. The resort features spacious residences with fully equipped kitchens, private balconies, and stunning views of the mountains. Guests can enjoy the outdoor pool, fitness center, and other amenities that make it easy to unwind after a day of exploring.
Speaking of relaxing, after a day of outdoor activities, there’s no better way to unwind than with a visit to Serenity Spa. Located within the Westgate Park City Resort & Spa, Serenity Spa offers a wide range of treatments designed to soothe both body and mind. From massages and facials to body wraps and aromatherapy, the spa’s expert therapists provide personalized treatments that leave you feeling refreshed and rejuvenated.
The spa’s tranquil atmosphere is the perfect antidote to the stresses of everyday life. With its serene decor, calming scents, and peaceful music, Serenity Spa creates a truly relaxing environment where guests can escape from the hustle and bustle of the outside world. Whether you’re indulging in a full day of pampering or just popping in for a quick treatment, Serenity Spa offers a luxurious retreat that will leave you feeling revitalized.
For those seeking a cozy and casual dining experience, Cafe Terigo is a local favorite. This familyowned restaurant is known for its delicious Italianinspired dishes, made with fresh, locally sourced ingredients. Located on Main Street in downtown Park City, Cafe Terigo has a charming, rustic atmosphere that makes it a perfect spot for a leisurely lunch or dinner.
The menu at Cafe Terigo features a variety of Italian and Mediterranean dishes, from woodfired pizzas to house-made pastas. The restaurant is also known for its creative salads, seafood dishes, and delectable desserts. Whether you’re in the mood for a light bite or a hearty meal, Cafe Terigo’s menu offers something for everyone.
Park City is home to not one, but two gay ski weeks. The first, Elevation Utah takes place February 19-23, 2025, and features Après-ski events, dance parties and casual meetups which draw attendees from around the country. Queer Ski will take place from March 18-25 and is a known to be more of a localized event drawing LGBTQ individuals from the region.
As my time in Park City came to an end, I couldn’t help but reflect on the town’s unique charm and diversity of experiences. From the adrenaline of skiing down powdery slopes to the peacefulness of a sunset hike, Park City captures the essence of adventure and tranquility in equal measure. The warmth of its local community, combined with its breathtaking natural beauty, makes this mountain town a place you’ll want to return to again and again.
Our final evening consisted of the Rarities & Reserves tasting at Red Pine Lodge. We had the chance to sample a wonderful selection of small-batch and boutique wines from around the country in the most wonderful setting, high atop a mountain. It was the perfect way to end a perfect trip discovering Park City. Whether you’re a ski enthusiast or a nature lover, Park City should be on your list of places to explore.
Enjoy the Journey!
BARS & CLUBS MIDTOWN
BLAKE’S ON THE PARK blakesontheparkatlanta.com 227 10th St NE
BULLDOGS 893 Peachtree St NE
FRIENDS NEIGHBORHOOD BAR friendsonponce-atl.com 736 Ponce De Leon Ave NE
MY SISTER’S ROOM mysistersroom.com 66 12th St NE
X MIDTOWN xmidtown.com 990 Piedmont Ave NE
THE T modeltatlanta.com 465 Boulevard SE
CHESHIRE
HERETIC hereticatlanta.com 2069 Cheshire Bridge Road
BJ ROOSTERS bjroosters.com 2043 Cheshire Bridge Road NE
WESTSIDE
MARQUETTE 868 Joseph E. Boone Blvd NW
840ATL 840 Joseph E. Boone Blvd NW
ANSLEY
A
ATLANTA EAGLE 1492 Piedmont Ave NE
FELIX’S 1510 Piedmont Ave NE
THE HIDEAWAY 1544 Piedmont Ave NE
MIXX mixxatlanta.com 1492 Piedmont Ave NE
OSCAR’S oscarsatlanta.com 1510 Piedmont Ave NE
WOOFS woofsatlanta.com 494 Plasters Ave NE
TRIPPS fb: tripps-bar 1931 Piedmont Cir NE
EAST ATLANTA, GRANT PARK & EDGEWOOD
MARY’S marysatlanta.com 1287 Glenwood Ave SE
SISTER LOUISA’S CHURCH sisterlouisaschurch. com 466 Edgewood Ave SE
DINING MIDTOWN
CASA ALMENARA 991 Piedmont Ave NE casa-almenara.com
OLIVE BISTRO olivebistro.com 1050 Juniper St NE #4
LA HACIENDA lahaciendamidtown. com 900 Monroe Dr NE
TUK TUK THAI FOOD LOFT TUKTUKATL.COM 1745 Peachtree Rd NW
DEKALB
LIPS ATLANTA atldragshow.com 3011 Buford Hwy NE
GCB & PLEASURES brushstrokesatlanta. com
1510-D Piedmont Ave. NE FITNESS
MIDTOWN
URBAN BODY FITNESS
urbanbody tness. com
500 Amsterdam Ave N
CHESHIRE GRAVITEE FITNESS graviteeatl.com 2201 Faulkner Rd NE
RETAIL
MIDTOWN
BARKING LEATHER AFTER DARK barkingleather.com 1510 Piedmont Ave NE
CHESHIRE
SOUTHERN NIGHTS VIDEO 2205 Cheshire Bridge Rd NE ANSLEY
BOY NEXT DOOR MENSWEAR boynextdoormenswear.com 1000 Piedmont Ave NE, Ste A
SPAS/BATHS ADULT
FLEX SPA exspas.com 76 4th St NW
Photos by: Russ Bowen-Youngblood
We all have those moments of ‘wait, did they just say that?’ Lucky for you, we compile the best of the best right here on this page. Want to join in on the b*tch session? Submit your own nuggets to info@davidatlanta.com.
I’m not really a bitch. I just play one in your life.
I won’t be making any age-related jokes, because I genuinely feel bad about how old you all are.
You say “you canʼt make this sh*t up.” But yes, I could. Iʼm a genius.
Dating someone based ONLY on looks is shallow af. Consider other things, like do they have a lot of money.
I can’t believe it’s been a year since I didn’t become a better person.
Remember: January 1st isn’t the only day you can start over.
If I didn’t text you happy new year, we still cool. I’m just lazy.
Ran into my ex and his new boyfriend, and he looks just like med when I was with him. Like a damn fool.
