Beyond Scrolling: Finding Community at Haverhill Pride’s Speed Friending
Attendees getting to know each other at the Haverhill Pride Speed Friending fundraiser
In a world of endless digital scrolling, there is something different about meeting a new friend face-to-face. We recently stepped away from our screens at Barrio on Merrimack St, where we gathered the Haverhill Pride community to get together and make new friends.
You might remember the survey we sent out following our Random Axe of Kindness fundraiser and the Haverhill Pride Parade and Celebration - several respondents from our community expressed a feeling of surprise that there were so many queer people and allies in Haverhill, and a desire to get to know them.
In fact, statistically 9.3% of people identify as part of the LGBTQIA+ community, with higher rates in younger generations (up to 1 in 6 people, or 17%). With Haverhill’s population of 68,291, we can estimate that roughly 6,351 residents in the city are part of the queer community and are just waiting to be connected. Speed Friending was our solution to that problem.
Speed Friending: Making Connections Easy
Making friends as an adult can be awkward—so we decided to make it fun. We kicked things off with Friend Bingo, a high-energy icebreaker that got everyone out of their seats and into conversation.
From there, we moved into structured Speed Friending. Every five minutes, a new pair, a new story, and a new connection. Seeing the room filled with laughter and conversation was a reminder that our community isn’t just looking for events, we’re looking for connections.
Electric Energy & Local Legends
We were blessed to welcome phenomenal local talent, who worked around the clock to keep the energy up and help break the ice. Madam Zapple spent the afternoon sharing giggles with guests, in between performing hand stands and splits to the latest pop hits for the crowd. DJ PJ came prepared with a set list that was perfect for an afternoon tea dance and kept everyone moving.
Between the beats and the bingo, we also gave away seven fantastic raffle prizes, graciously supported by the fantastic makers and business owners in and around Haverhill.
Haverhill drag queen Madam Zapple performs for the crowd at Speed Friending
$1,400 Raised: Building a Vibrant Future
We are thrilled to announce that thanks to your generosity and ticket sales, we raised over $1,400 at this fundraiser! Every dollar goes directly toward making the second annual Haverhill Pride Parade and Celebration a reality and other year-round queer events like this one.
A massive, heartfelt shout-out to Barrio for sponsoring us by providing their beautiful space. Support from local businesses like Barrio is what allows us to keep building these safe spaces year-round. If you’re a local business owner looking to make a community impact, we’d love to chat about 2026 sponsorships.
Coming Up Next: Your Queer Valentine’s Destination
If you missed Speed Friending, don't worry—we have another opportunity for you to come out and make connections with the local community. We know Valentine's Day can be a bit... much for some people. So, this year, we’re doing it differently.
Dungeons in Drag, Haverhill Pride’s next fundraiser, is scheduled for February 14th!
Dungeons in Drag: A Queer Quest
On Saturday, February 14th, Haverhill Pride is teaming up with Creatorpult Games (38 Emerson St.) for Dungeons in Drag, a day of queer joy, community storytelling, and nerdy fun. Whether you’re a Level 20 Paladin or you’ve never touched a 20-sided die in your life, there is a place at the table for you.
Choose your adventure:
👑 Questing Queer ($25): A beginner-friendly DnD one-shot playing alongside local drag faves. (Includes custom rainbow dice!)
⚔️ Queer Commander ($25): A Magic: The Gathering tournament for glory and prizes.
💅 Casual Queer ($15): The ultimate low-pressure hangout. Access the board game library and just be in community.
Snag Your Tickets Before They’re Gone!
Haverhill Pride is more than a parade; it’s a year-round commitment to each other. If you’re thinking about getting involved, this is your invitation - there’s a seat for you at the table. 🌈✨
Quick Info: Upcoming LGBTQIA+ Events in Haverhill
Event: Dungeons in Drag (DnD & Board Games)
Date: February 14, 2025
Location: Creatorpult, 38 Emerson St, Haverhill, MA
Tickets: Available now at https://givebutter.com/ClrdF4