Day Trip: A Beacon of Queer Community Rises Again in Asheville

Asheville, North Carolina, a city known for its vibrant arts scene, stunning mountain views, and welcoming community, also boasts a thriving LGBTQ+ population. But when disaster strikes, it's the strength of that community that truly shines. This is the story of Day Trip, a queer-owned bar and coffee shop, and its fight to rebuild after being devastated by Hurricane Helene.

More Than Just a Bar: A Hub of Community

Imagine pouring your heart, soul, and life savings into creating a safe and welcoming space for your community. That's exactly what Brandon and Davie Davis did when they opened Day Trip. Their vision was simple: to create a bar and coffee shop where everyone felt welcome, a place to celebrate, connect, and find support.

Before Hurricane Helene, Day Trip was buzzing with activity. Plans were underway for LGBTQ+ fundraisers, dazzling burlesque shows, and even dog adoption events. Day Trip was poised to become a cornerstone of Asheville's queer scene, a testament to the city's inclusive spirit.

When the Storm Hits: Resilience in the Face of Adversity

Tragically, just weeks after its grand opening, Day Trip, along with much of Asheville, was hit hard by Hurricane Helene. The storm unleashed a deluge of water, causing widespread flooding that decimated the bar. The building, and with it, the hopes of the Davis's and the queer community in Asheville, was almost completely destroyed.

The devastation was widespread. Major roads were washed out, making the distribution of aid a Herculean task in the already challenging terrain of the Appalachian Mountains. Many residents found themselves displaced, grappling with the loss of homes and businesses.

The image of Day Trip after the storm? "A scene from an end-of-the-world movie," Brandon recalls. But even amidst the wreckage, a sense of determination began to emerge.

Finding Light in the Dark: Rebuilding and Reconnecting

Despite the immense personal and financial setbacks, Brandon and Davie Davis refused to give up. They’re not just rebuilding a bar; they're rebuilding a dream, a community, and a symbol of hope.

"To have that taken away from you is devastating," Davis said, reflecting on the impact of the hurricane. But their response was not to wallow, but to act.

They immediately began fundraising efforts through GoFundMe, focusing on not only rebuilding Day Trip but also providing support to their employees and contributing to local volunteer efforts. They are doing what many in a time of need will do: they are helping their neighbors.

Asheville's Queer Scene: A Tapestry of Pride and Resilience

The story of Day Trip is just one thread in the rich tapestry of Asheville's LGBTQ+ community. This inclusive city has a long history of welcoming and supporting its queer residents.

• A History of Progress: Asheville and Buncombe County have consistently championed LGBTQ+ rights, including offering domestic partner benefits long before it was the norm.
• Community Events: The city hosts a vibrant Pride parade and festival each year, drawing thousands of attendees. Pageants, parties, and a multitude of events provide spaces for connection, celebration, and visibility.
• Open and Welcoming Atmosphere: From Downtown to West Asheville, you'll see openly LGBTQ+ couples and individuals, contributing to the city's welcoming atmosphere.

In Asheville, the fight for equality and inclusivity is an ongoing process. However, the citizens have shown time and time again that the work they do has been worth the effort. Even when challenged, the queer community rises up and makes its presence known.

A Diverse Scene: Venues and Gathering Places

Asheville offers a variety of establishments catering to the LGBTQ+ community. Here are just a few examples:

• Scandals: A popular gay nightclub known for its drag shows and lively atmosphere.
• The Underground: (Source Material suggests The Underground as a Gay Bar) - A popular destination for fun in Asheville.
• Banks Ave: (Source Material suggests Banks Ave as a Gay Bar) - A spot for all to gather in Asheville.
• And much more: The queer scene continues to evolve, with new venues and events emerging regularly.

With bars like Day Trip, Asheville is a place that truly welcomes and celebrates diversity.

Looking Ahead: The Future of Day Trip

The Davis's are determined to reopen Day Trip, bringing back the community events and creating that safe space once again. They plan to begin rebuilding in the spring, and the community is rallying around them.

If you're in Asheville, be sure to visit Day Trip when it reopens. If you can't, consider donating to their GoFundMe. Support the Davis's, support their employees, and the support the future of the queer community in Asheville.

Conclusion: A Testament to the Human Spirit

The story of Day Trip is a reminder that even in the face of devastating loss, hope, resilience, and community can prevail. Asheville's LGBTQ+ community is proof that when we support each other, we can overcome any obstacle. Day Trip's story is far from over; it's a testament to the enduring power of the human spirit.