Where To Celebrate Same-Sex Marriage In Boston

Wave your rainbow flag! On Friday, the Supreme Court ruled in favor of Obergefell v. Hodge, effectively legalizing same-sex marriage in the U.S. "This decision affirms what millions of Americans already believe in their hearts," Obama said Friday morning. "When all Americans are treated as equal, we are all more free," he added. "No matter who you are or what you look like, or who you love, America is a place where you can write your own destiny." And if you're in Boston, the city is full of places to celebrate.

Boston is a city rich in history, including that of same-sex marriage. It has been one of the most progressive cities on the issue of gay marriage and LGBT rights. In May 2004 Massachusetts legalized same-sex marriage with Goodridge v. Mass. Department of Public Health, making it the first state in the country to legalize same sex marriage. Massachusetts is ahead of the curve and Boston is a top gay-friendly city. The New York Times reported Boston as the fifth highest metro area gay population in the U.S.

The Supreme Court's historic decision calls for celebration! Where are the best places to celebrate in Boston?

Boston City Hall

City Halls everywhere are a classic hub of same-sex marriage celebration. Boston City Hall — which, side note, just instituted gender-neutral bathrooms — is located at 1 City Hall Square. The place to get a marriage license, naturally people gather here to get married. Although, because gay marriage is already legal in Massachusetts, there will probably be less couples gathered here than in other cities.

The South End

Next to Chinatown and the Back Bay and a short walk from the Boston Commons, the South End of Boston is chocked full of gay-friendly restaurants and bars. You'll find a sizable population of LGBT friendly establishments on the main streets Columbus Ave, Tremont Street, and Harrison Ave. Checkout The Boston Eagle, located on Tremont street is one of the original gay bars in the city. Or go to the Club Cafe, another original gay restaurant and bar in Boston — actually, the first to not try to hide gay bar-goers and have windows.

Jamaica Plain

Sometimes referred to as JP by locals, it's also a gay-friendly Boston area. Stop by Midway Cafe for Queeraoke, live music, a bite to eat, and some mingling. As an area with a large LGBT population, JP is sure to be celebrating.

Clubs

If you're looking for an upbeat nightlife experience, how about a club?

The Alley Bar is a gay club in Boston's North End. Go for karaoke, pool, and celebratory fun. Gay bar and dance club Machine is a good option. Located on Boylston street near Fenway Park, this place is known for an upbeat dance floor. When you're too tired from dancing, hit Jacques Cabaret in the Theater District, famous for its drag shows.

Northampton

Although not in Boston, Northampton is widely regarded as the lesbian capitol of the U.S. Just a 90 minute drive from the city, According to Jezebel, there 40.31 same-sex couples for every 1,000 households in the area. It has the most lesbians per capita in the U.S. There is sure to be colorful celebration in North Hampton.

Images: Getty Images (1); Massachusetts Office of Travel & Tourism/Flickr Creative Commons,

kevin.pelrine/Flickr Creative Commons, tony.evans/Flickr Creative Commons