The Beard Ball

Albuquerque Social Club

4021 Central Avenue Northeast, 87108, Albuquerque, NM, United States

Albuquerque Social Club

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The bar, affectionately known as the SOCH, is a 30+ year old institution in Albuquerque, New Mexico. As the oldest gay bar in our city, SOCH has been a safe place for thousands of queer and trans folks over the decades.The history of the SOCH dates back to the early ’70s when the bar first opened as The Heights just two years after the Stonewall riots in New York prompted the de facto beginning of the modern gay liberation movement.By 1983, and several name changes later, the Albuquerque Social Club was up and running.During its earlier years, the club was one of the few places in the city where gay men and women could gather and socialize while enjoying being “out” in a safe space. It became a second home to many during a time when it could be outright dangerous to be openly gay.It is often compared to the fictional “Cheers”, a home bar where no one is a stranger for long. Whether there to watch a fun drag show, dancing the night away on Friday dance nights, or a quiet night of games and sharing stories with friends, SOCH has always welcomed everyone.- By Adam Baker- By Pilar Martinez/ Albuquerque Journal Staff Writer