Strut Orange County, a beloved nightlife venue, adorned with a mural celebrating inclusivity.
After 5 ½ years of vibrant nightlife that celebrated diversity and self-expression, Strut Orange County in Costa Mesa, CA, is officially up for sale. Owner Luke Nero has announced that the club, known for its lively atmosphere and colorful design, will continue to operate during the transition. The venue has played a significant role in the LGBTQ+ community and aims to pivot towards new creative opportunities. With a full schedule of events and an Instagram-worthy design, Strut remains a cornerstone of inclusive nightlife in the region.
Welcome to Costa Mesa, California, home to the beloved queer nightclub, Strut Orange County, which is now officially up for sale after an incredible run of 5 ½ years. This colorful hotspot has become a significant part of the local LGBTQ+ community, drawing in a lively crowd that celebrates diversity and self-expression.
The exciting announcement about the sale was made via social media by the owner, Luke Nero, who reassured everyone that Strut will continue to operate just as it always has during this transition phase. So don’t worry—if you’ve been planning a night out, the club will still be rocking as usual!
Strut Orange County is conveniently located at 719 West 19th Street, a spot that was once home to the gay bar Lion’s Den until its closure in 2015. The new nightclub quickly established itself as a playground for colorful queers, fabulous ladies, and every self-expression in between, setting the stage for unforgettable nights since its inception.
One of the most striking features of Strut is its exterior, which boasts a jaw-dropping mural of the iconic Dolly Parton, painted by talented Long Beach artist David Gilmore in 2021. Spanning an impressive 50-foot-by-20-foot area, the mural depicts Dolly with her arms wide open, symbolizing her inclusive spirit and commitment to supporting diverse communities. Dolly Parton’s influence even extends to the community’s resilience during the pandemic, thanks to her role in the development of Moderna’s COVID-19 vaccine.
While specific reasons for the sale haven’t been disclosed, Nero hinted at a desire to explore new creative opportunities. He emphasized that this change is not an end but rather a pivot towards the next evolution of Strut. Nero’s passion for modernizing queer nightlife in Orange County shines through as he recognizes the significant community interest in such spaces.
Strut Orange County prides itself on its Instagram-worthy design, which aims to create a colorful, inclusive environment without relying on more traditional symbols like rainbow flags. This unique approach sets the club apart, appealing to a broad audience seeking an exciting nightlife experience.
The bar is open seven days a week, providing ample opportunities to join in on the action. Strut hosts various events, including popular drag brunches, focusing on creating an inviting atmosphere for all—whether you’re a member of the LGBTQ+ community or a supportive ally.
Strut’s location was specifically chosen due to its rich heritage as a previous LGBTQ+ venue and favorable market conditions. With a background in event production, Nero made the move to Newport Beach to manage the club full-time, filling a notable gap in the area’s nightlife scene. Many local LGBTQ+ activists feel that Orange County, unlike its neighboring regions like West Hollywood or Long Beach, lacks adequate spaces for community socialization. Strut is here to change that narrative!
The future of Strut is now open to new possibilities, but it promises to remain a landmark for both the gay community and its allies—providing an inclusive nightlife experience that everyone can enjoy. As the countdown begins for this transformative chapter, patrons and community members alike are eager to see what lies ahead for this vibrant venue. So, grab your friends and head over to Strut! The party’s not over yet.
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