First-Ever 'Golden Girls' Festival Slated For Chicago In April

CHICAGO — Super fans of NBC's "The Golden Girls" are set to celebrate their love for the classic sitcom in Northalsted, the LGBTQ+ neighborhood formerly known as "Boystown."

"The Golden Girls" was ahead of its time in television during its seven-year run starting in 1985.

The series followed the escapades of four progressive – and sex-positive – retired women in Miami, and included episodes devoted to gay rights and the AIDS crisis. The show inspired a 1993 spin-off called "The Golden Palace," musicals, drag shows and off-Broadway plays.

Now, the first-of-its-kind, weekend-long classic TV comedy fan fest "Golden Con: Thank You For Being A Fan" is scheduled for April 22 to 24 at Center on Halsted and surrounding bars.

"Fans and super-fans are gathering together for a fun-filled weekend to celebrate TV’s most revered comedy with laughter, and friendship, and perhaps some cheesecake," organizers announced on thankyouforbeingafan.com.

The festivities include a "pop-up Rusty Anchor Bar," a "Mother of a Solid Gold Dancer" disco party, live parody shows from Hell in a Handbag Theater Company, and guest appearances from "guest stars, producers and others directly connected to the show."

No word on whether the show's only surviving star, Betty White, who turns 100 in January, will be on the bill.

Golden Con promoters also are seeking "vendors, performers, and others" interested in participating in the inaugural festival.

Tickets are set to go on sale in early 2022.