Outspoken LGBTQ Storytelling is back at Skeleton Key Brewery in Woodridge with curated, personal storytelling that supports Youth Outlook.
On March 10, this recurring storytelling series returns to Skeleton Key Brewery in Woodridge, Illinois. Outspoken brings together LGBTQ+ community members and allies for a curated lineup of true, personal narratives. The room feels intimate, brave, and warm. Organizers describe the vibe as “often moving, and sometimes hilarious,” and that mix is exactly the point.
Save the 2026 dates
Outspoken LGBTQ Storytelling will take place on three Tuesdays in 2026:
- March 10, 2026
- July 14, 2026
- November 10, 2026
Doors open around 5:00 PM. Stories start at 7:30 PM. This is a 21+ event.
Location: Skeleton Key Brewery
8102 S Cass Ave, Unit 1, Woodridge, IL
It’s free to attend, and donations benefit Youth Outlook, helping sustain affirming programs like Drop-In Centers for LGBTQ+ youth across the Chicago suburbs and beyond.
Why these nights matter
LGBTQ+ young people deserve community that shows up, listens, and affirm them. Events like Outspoken help build that culture.
When adults gather in a queer-friendly space and hear real stories, they practice empathy in public. They leave with language, courage, and perspective. That kind of learning matters for every place youth spend time: schools, workplaces, homes, and neighborhoods.
For Youth Outlook, this support strengthens our work to create a safe space for LGBTQ+ youth and expand access to LGBTQ+ youth support in northern and central Illinois.
A proud partner: Skeleton Key Brewery
Skeleton Key Brewery is not only the host site. They are also a long-time supporter of Youth Outlook.
At Youth Outlook’s 2025 Dare to Dream gala, Skeleton Key Brewery received the Hal Temple Business Partner of the Year Award. The award recognizes a business that advances Youth Outlook’s mission by creating a more inclusive and supportive environment through its partnership and advocacy.
Put simply: Skeleton Key Brewery does the work. And hosting Outspoken is one way they keep doing it.
What to expect when you walk in
Outspoken is curated, which means the stories are shaped with care. You can expect a true storytelling night that feels intentional, not open-mic chaotic.
Here’s what past Outspoken nights typically include:
- Personal LGBTQ+ narratives with humor, honesty, and heart
- A 21+ brewery setting that is widely known as welcoming to queer community
- Food pop-ups on site
- A clear connection to impact, with donations supporting Youth Outlook
If you have ever wanted a way to support local LGBTQ+ youth, this is an easy yes. You show up. You listen. You help make more support possible.
Join us and help keep support close to home
Bring a friend. Bring your curiosity. Bring your full self. Outspoken is a reminder that community care can look like laughter, reflection, and a room full of people paying attention.
There are many ways to support our work. Stay in the loop on upcoming programs and events by signing up for our newsletter.
