Queer Cozy (Sober) Networking Hour

Join Out in Finance on Wednesday, April 22, 2026 from 5:30 PM - 7:30 PM (CDT) in Chicago’s vibrant Andersonville Neighborhood at Eli Tea Bar for Queer Cozy (Sober) Hour — an intentionally relaxed, welcoming space to connect, unwind, and build community in a non-bar setting.

This evening is all about low-pressure conversation, warm drinks, and meaningful connection. Whether you’re new to the city, new to Out in Finance, or just craving a cozy midweek hang, you’re invited to come as you are.

What’s included:

• Hosted Eli Tea beverage (1 ticket with RSVP)

• A comfortable, affirming space to connect with LGBTQIA+ professionals and allies

• No formal programming—just good vibes and easy conversation

This event is especially welcoming for folks who don’t drink alcohol or who are looking for community outside of traditional nightlife spaces. Come early, stay late, grab a cozy seat, and make a new connection (or two).

Our friends from the Chicago Therapy Collective, an Andersonville nonprofit, will be joining us to personally connect on the employee resources they offer directly to the LGBTQIA2S community.

This event is free to attend, but space is limited, so be sure to RSVP as soon as possible.

We can’t wait to see you there!

More about Eli Tea Bar:

When people talk about non-alcoholic queer spaces in Chicago, one of the first places mentioned is often Eli Tea Bar. Eli Tea Bar opened nearly four years ago in Chicago’s Andersonville neighborhood and has evolved into a community staple. The original Eli Tea Bar in Birmingham, Michigan will be 11 years old this December. Although the owner, Elias, didn’t intend to make the shop a well-known non-alcoholic—though he did envision it as queer—space, he said it’s been fun to see it grow in that direction. Over the past 11 years, he said both shops have become this type of needed space. “It was something that happened, but it was something where I could see the customers raising their hands, if that makes sense,” Majid said. “At some point, I think I had the initial idea, and then I think over time I actually gained the confidence to really run with the idea.” Those ideas—especially those involving his evening events—have been the crux of the Chicago business. Eli Tea Bar boasts a variety of activities from open mics to writing groups to art creation nights and more.

More about Chicago Therapy Collective (CTC):

Chicago Therapy Collective (CTC) takes decisive action to improve LGBTQ+ mental health in Illinois through therapy, education, advocacy, and the arts.They aim to be locally focused, and partnership oriented to effect sustainable and meaningful change. As an Andersonville based nonprofit, they work to foster intersectional Trans-Inclusion in Andersonville and surrounding northside neighborhoods. They have also been building partnerships across the city with other LGBTQIA2S nonprofits, political representatives, and ally organizations to collaborate on programming, share resources, and maximize impact where possible.

For Questions regarding this event please contact: 

Matt Tobel - Matthew.Tobel@Huntington.com