Cherry Grove Stories

Before the landmark Stonewall riots, Cherry Grove on Fire Island stood as a vibrant sanctuary for gay men, lesbians, and drag queens. Utilizing rare archival footage, the documentary captures the exuberance of young men in demi-drag and lively amateur performances. In an era when it was illegal for bars to serve homosexual patrons, the community thrived with wild parties and late-night escapades. This sexually liberated oasis significantly influenced the evolution of the modern gay community. Despite the devastating impact of the AIDS crisis, Cherry Grove's enduring spirit remains alive and influential today.