Williamsburg gay bar Macri Park closes abruptly, sparking questions and concerns for staff

"On Jan. 13, Williamsburg gay bar Macri Park announced on Instagram that it was closing its doors. The closure came suddenly and without warning, leaving staff in a lurch and locals confused - on the day of the announcement, the bar's website still featured a schedule of events occurring throughout the month. "It took everyone as a surprise. It hurt a lot of people," drag performer Mambiche said in an interview with Gay City News."

""Tuesday, the next day, was when we got the message that [Macri Park] was closing," Mambiche said. "I don't know the details or anything, but I can only assume that it just wasn't enough to keep the doors open." Macri Park staff and performers have still not been provided with any reason for the closure nor a plan for reopening. On Feb. 1, local queer creatives and community members held a "Moment for Macri" benefit for former Macri Park staff and artists."

"The evening at Happyfun Hideaway featured karaoke, raffles, tattoos, and live performances, with proceeds going towards those most affected by the closing of "Brooklyn's living room." "I'm hoping that we could make enough with our raffles and the performances and the tips to [...] at least give the staff something to survive a little," Mambiche said. "You know, pay rent [...] just give them that financial help that they need since it was last minute.""

Macri Park announced on Instagram on Jan. 13 that it was closing its doors. The closure was sudden; the bar's website still showed events for the month. Staff and performers received no explanation or reopening plan. The last official event was Mambi Mondays, hosted by drag performer Mambiche. Local creatives organized a Feb. 1 "Moment for Macri" benefit at Happyfun Hideaway with karaoke, raffles, tattoos, and live performances to raise funds for former staff and artists. Organizers aimed to provide emergency financial support such as rent assistance. Public records show a Dec. 15, 2025 filing with the NYC DOHMH may relate to the closure.

Read at Gay City News