Leon’s, a historic gay bar in Baltimore, has closed temporarily following the death of its owner, Ron Singer, on July 7 at the age of 66. The bar, which has been in operation since 1957, announced its temporary closure on social media, stating that it would be closing its doors starting Thursday.
Community Reaction
The news of the closure has sparked a range of reactions from the community, with some expressing optimism that the bar will reopen soon, while others have voiced concerns that it may not reopen at all. Insiders have assured that new owners will be taking over and are working to complete a formal transition, including the transfer of banking and credit card accounts.
Leon’s has been a staple in the Baltimore LGBTQ community for decades, and its closure has left many wondering what the future holds for the city’s gay nightlife. The bar’s temporary closure has also sparked memories of other gay bars and gay-friendly night spots that have closed in recent years, including Club Hippo, Grand Central, and Mary’s.
As one patron lamented, if Leon’s doesn’t reopen, ‘what gay nightlife will be left in Baltimore?’ The community is waiting with bated breath to see what the future holds for this beloved institution.
Original reporting: Baltimore Fishbowl — read the source article.