Leather in Chicago

Cell Block's Monday night mixer brings together the leather and kink community for an evening that spans both the front bar and the legendary backroom. The front opens at 1 p.m. for those looking to start early; the backroom action...

Step into one of the world's most important collections of leather and LGBTQ+ history. The Leather Archives & Museum in Rogers Park houses decades of community artifacts, photography, and cultural documentation that tell the story of leather culture from the...

Step into one of the world's most comprehensive collections of leather and LGBTQ+ history. The Leather Archives & Museum in Rogers Park holds decades of cultural artifacts, photographs, and stories that document the leather community's impact and legacy. Whether you're...

The opening night of International Mr. Leather Bear Brotherhood sets the stage for Chicago's biggest leather celebration. Hosted by IML 2023 Marcus Barella and Madam Destiny B. Childs, expect pageantry, community, and the kind of energy that only happens when...

Sidetrack lights up for IML week with a glow party that sets the tone for the leather community's biggest celebration. Thursday night across the main, cherry, and north bars means there's room to move, people to meet, and that electric...

The leather community's biggest weekend kicks off with tradition — the Last Shine at 9:30 and First Shine at 10:00. It's the opening bell for IMLBB, where the real celebration begins.

A dedicated space for people in the leather community navigating recovery and sobriety. This Friday morning gathering brings together folks who understand both the leather lifestyle and the challenges of staying sober—no judgment, just real conversation and mutual support from...

Step into one of the world's most important collections of leather and LGBTQ+ history. The Leather Archives & Museum in Rogers Park houses decades of community artifacts, photographs, and cultural documents that tell the story of leather culture and queer...

New to the International Mr. Leather Bear Brotherhood Chicago chapter? This is your low-pressure intro to the community — a chance to meet other bears, ask questions, and get the lay of the land before diving deeper. Friendly faces, no...

The LA&M booth is running their legendary sling raffle at the vendor mart — grab tickets at $10 each or 3 for $25 and you might just win. Thanks to JimSupport for donating the prize, and yes, it can be...

The International Mr. Bootblack competition brings together leather and kink community members for a day of competition, camaraderie, and celebration. Watch as contestants compete for the title while the community gathers to support, celebrate, and connect with one another. It's...

LeatherU is an educational workshop series diving deep into BDSM fundamentals, safety practices, and community culture. Presented by Mufasa's Pride Productions, this Friday session brings together leather enthusiasts and curious newcomers for hands-on learning in a judgment-free space. Whether you're...

A leadership development program for the leather community, presented by Mufasa's Pride Productions. LeatherU brings together experienced leather practitioners and emerging leaders for education, mentorship, and community building. Whether you're new to leather culture or deepening your knowledge, this is...

A daytime gathering for the leather and bootblack community to connect, share skills, and celebrate the craft of boot shining and leather care. Whether you're experienced or curious about the scene, this is a welcoming space to learn, socialize, and...

An educational workshop diving into leather and kink culture, presented by Mufasa's Pride Productions. Whether you're curious about the community, exploring your interests, or looking to deepen your knowledge, this Friday afternoon session creates space for real conversation and learning...

A hands-on workshop from Mufasa's Pride Productions that breaks down bondage basics for curious newcomers and seasoned folks alike. Learn safety, technique, and communication in a judgment-free space designed to demystify kink culture. Whether you're exploring for the first time...

The leather community's regular gathering for bootblacks and enthusiasts — a Friday afternoon space to connect, learn, and celebrate the craft and culture. Whether you're experienced or curious about the scene, this is where the community comes together.

The leather community's annual pet and handler party is exactly what it sounds like — a free evening of pup play, human-animal roleplay, squeaky toys, treats, and special guests. Brought to you by Arizona Pups and Handlers and Chicago Pet...

The leather community's biggest competition heats up with preliminary rounds for International Mr. Leather and International Mr. Bear Brotherhood. Watch contenders from across the country compete for the crown in front of a packed room of leather enthusiasts and supporters....

Nightshift brings the Recon community together for a late-night social — a chance to connect with like-minded folks in a relaxed, welcoming space. Whether you're new to the scene or a regular, this is where the night gets interesting.

A late-night gathering for the rubber and gear community hosted by MIR International Rubber Weekend and Chicago Rubber Club. Connect with others who share your passion for latex, leather, and fetish wear in a welcoming, judgment-free space. Perfect for seasoned...

A safe space for people in the leather community navigating recovery and sobriety. This Friday night gathering brings together folks who understand both the leather lifestyle and the challenges of staying sober—no judgment, just real conversation and mutual support from...

Saturday morning sessions diving into topics that matter to the leather and kink community — workshops, panels, and presentations led by experienced educators and community members. Whether you're curious, experienced, or somewhere in between, there's something here to learn and...

A Saturday morning gathering for folks in the leather community working on recovery and sobriety. This is a space to connect with others who get the culture, share what's on your mind, and build community around staying healthy. Low-key, judgment-free,...

A Saturday morning gathering for the leather and bootblack community — a chance to connect, share techniques, and celebrate the craft and culture that brings people together. Whether you're seasoned or just curious about the scene, this is a welcoming...

The LA&M booth is running their legendary sling raffle at the vendor mart — grab a fistful of tickets for $10 each (or 3 for $25) and you might win big. Thanks to JimSupport for supplying the prize, and yes,...

Step into one of the world's most significant collections of leather and LGBTQ+ history. The Leather Archives & Museum in Rogers Park houses rare artifacts, photographs, and documents that tell the story of leather culture, kink communities, and queer resilience....

A daytime gathering for the leather and bootblack community to connect, learn, and celebrate the craft. Whether you're seasoned in the scene or curious about what bootblacking is all about, this is a welcoming space to shine boots, share techniques,...

A hands-on bootblacking workshop from Mufasa's Pride Productions that teaches the craft, ritual, and sensuality of this leather tradition. Whether you're curious about the culture or looking to refine your technique, this Saturday afternoon session brings together folks who get...

A brunch for the leather community focused on recovery, wellness, and connection. Gather with folks who understand the lifestyle and are committed to sobriety and health. Good food, good company, and real conversation — exactly what a recovery-focused community space...

A daytime gathering for the leather and kink community centered around mutual pleasure and connection. This ticketed event brings together folks who appreciate the scene's sensuality and camaraderie in a space designed for comfort and exploration.

A hands-on workshop diving into electro play for the leather community. Whether you're curious about the basics or looking to expand your skills, LeatherU breaks down techniques, safety, and sensation in a judgment-free space. Perfect for folks new to electro...

A gathering for leather community members of color at the International Mr. Leather Beer Bust. Connect with others who share your identity and passion for leather culture in a space built for you.

The International Mr. Leather weekend kicks off with Jackhammer's day party — a celebration of leather culture, community, and self-expression. This is where the energy builds before the main events, with a packed dance floor, good drinks, and a crowd...

The International Mr. Leather bootblack competition brings together the community's finest in service, skill, and style. Watch competitors demonstrate their craft, celebrate leather culture, and support the artistry that defines this cornerstone of the scene. A Saturday afternoon dedicated to...

Learn the essentials of leather and rubber care, maintenance, and repair from the experts. This hands-on workshop covers cleaning techniques, conditioning, storage, and how to fix common wear and tear so your gear stays in top shape for years to...

An educational workshop from Mufasa's Pride Productions diving into the physical and consensual practices of rough body play within the leather community. Learn techniques, safety practices, and how to communicate with partners in this hands-on afternoon session designed for curious...

A bold gathering uniting fisting clubs and communities in one space—part celebration, part education, all connection. Hosted by M.A.F.I.A. (Mid-America Fists in Action), a Chicago-rooted 501(c)(3) nonprofit building the nation's premier fisting organization. Whether you're seasoned, curious, or just looking...

Join the celebration at Jackhammer, Chicago's iconic leather bar, for IML Saturday night. This is your chance to experience the vibrant energy of one of Rogers Park's most welcoming LGBTQ+ venues, featuring a full dance floor, craft cocktails, and the...

Jackhammer celebrates International Mr. Leather with a night of leather community pride and celebration. This is the moment the leather world comes together — expect a packed bar, high energy, and the kind of crowd that knows how to honor...

A late-night social gathering for the gear community — the kind of night where you show up as yourself and find your people. Whether you're into leather, uniforms, or the whole aesthetic, this is where the Chicago gear scene connects,...

A weekly gathering for folks in the leather community who are navigating recovery and sobriety. This is a safe, judgment-free space to connect with others who understand both the leather lifestyle and the challenges of staying sober. Sunday mornings, real...

Step into one of the world's most important collections of leather and LGBTQ+ history. The Leather Archives & Museum in Rogers Park houses decades of community artifacts, photography, and cultural documentation that tell the story of leather culture from the...

A Sunday gathering for the leather and bootblack community — whether you're into polishing, service, or just curious about the craft. This is where people who love gear, boots, and the culture come together in a low-pressure, welcoming space. Bring...

Join the community at Jackhammer for IML Sunday, a welcoming celebration during International Mr. Leather weekend. This judgment-free gathering welcomes all members of the LGBTQ+ community to enjoy drinks, games, and good company in a comfortable, modern space that has...

Sunday afternoon gathering for the leather and bootblack community — a space to connect, share knowledge, and celebrate the craft and culture. Whether you're experienced or just curious about the scene, this is where the community comes together in a...

The leather community's casual Sunday afternoon gathering — a chance to connect with fellow leather folks, enjoy good cocktails, and soak in the camaraderie that makes this community special. Low-key and welcoming, exactly what a community social should be.

The leather community's biggest night of the year — watch as competitors from around the world vie for the titles of International Mr. Leather and International Mr. Bootblack. This is the final round of one of the most prestigious contests...

The celebration Chicago's leather community has earned—a victory party for International Mr. Leather Big Bear, bringing together the leather and bear communities for an evening of pride, camaraderie, and good people. This is the night the community gathers to honor...

A Monday morning gathering for the leather and bootblack community to connect, share skills, and celebrate the craft. Whether you're experienced or just curious about the scene, this is a welcoming space to learn, polish, and build community with people...

A safe, confidential space for people in the leather community navigating recovery from addiction. This weekly Monday gathering offers peer support, shared experience, and the kind of judgment-free community that gets what leather life means. Whether you're early in recovery...

A leather community celebration where bootblacks showcase their craft and artistry. This midday gathering brings together leather enthusiasts to appreciate the skill, tradition, and creativity that goes into bootblacking — from polishing techniques to custom designs. It's the kind of...

An intimate reception for VIP ticket holders to meet the International Mr. Leather Bear and Boy winners. Enjoy champagne, light bites, and a photo opportunity with the winners in an exclusive setting.

IML isn't over until Cell Block says it is. The backroom opens early at 3pm for an all-day cruising marathon—front bar kicks off at noon with no cover charge. Gear check, coat check, and a packed backroom ready for a...

The leather community's biggest night of the year — the closing celebration of International Mr. Leather Weekend. This is where the newly crowned International Mr. Leather and Mr. Bootblack are celebrated, the dance floor is packed, and the energy is...

Chicago's leather and formal wear celebration brings the community together for an evening of elegance, connection, and pride. Dress to impress in black tie, leather, or your finest formal wear for a night that honors the city's leather heritage and...

Rough Trade brings the leather and denim crowd together for a night built on attitude, authenticity, and unapologetic style. Expect a packed dance floor, strong drinks, and a room full of people who know exactly what they're here for. This...

A leather and kink community night that leans into the raw, unapologetic side of Jackhammer's scene. This is where the gear comes out, the energy runs high, and the crowd knows exactly what they're here for — a night of...