The Barracks, An LGBTQ Leather Landmark Has Announced It’s Closing –

Cathedral City, CA

In a huge disappointment to the LGBTQ Community in the Coachella Valley, the Barracks has announced it is closing and moving to Phoenix, AZ. The Barracks was originally opened in 1992 called Wolf’s on the border of Palm Springs and Cathedral City and has since become hugely popular with the leather community drawing large crowds for its Sunday Beer Bust and other events.

Last week, the community got a first glimpse that the bar was having troubles. The owner Scott Murchison wrote on Social Media, “Wild rumors have been flying around lately about the fate of the Barracks and the visible changes happening. I wanted to take this opportunity to clear the air and set some things straight.

Recently, the City of Cathedral City decreased our occupancy dramatically and placed us in the position of requiring us to invest in excess of $100,000 in upgrades to the extremely old building that we currently occupy. While we are negotiating with government officials and the landlord, we have been trying to create a safe and high-tech sound and energy dance club, as well as seeking to expand the Barracks brand nationwide.”

Then today, a new message was posted saying, “To All Friends, Family and Patrons of The Barracks Bar, Cathedral City:

It is with profound sadness that we announce that The Barracks Bar that has existed as a staple of the Cathedral City LGBTQ+ Community for the past 31 years will officially close its doors for the last time at the close of business Sunday, August 4, 2024.

The state of California is revoking our license to serve alcohol as of August 5, 2024.

We want to thank all of you—the LGBTQ+ Community—for all of your support, love, connections and friendship over these past 31 years. It has been our deepest honor and privilege to serve you. The management and staff of The Barracks love this community and are so grateful for your patronage.

Please come and help us celebrate our last days in California and launch us into the world as we prepare for our continued life in our new home in Phoenix and beyond! “

It is unclear specifically what has lead to the State of California revoking the The Barracks Liquor License and how the City of Cathedral City played a role in the events. The Barracks will be sorely missed by many in the LGBTQ community. At this time it is unknown if another LGBTQ gay bar will take its place in the same location.

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