Why was GYRSG created?
Unlike Toronto, in York Region there are very few social venues and events that are renowned as gay-friendly. Our social group was created to enable members of our LGBT community to socialize and meet each other in an environment where they know that their sexuality will not be an issue.

Do I have to be gay or lesbian to join your group?
We welcome members of all genders and sexualities. We only require that all our members are fully accepting of others, irrespective of sexuality.

Do I have to live in York Region to join your group?
No, but the vast majority of our events are located within York Region. It would therefore only make sense for you to join if you are within sensible travelling distance.

Will I have to mix with others of different age groups?
It depends on the event. Presently our group is relatively small and our events are therefore mostly open to all age groups. The majority of our members and event attendees are presently in the 16-25 age group. As we gain more members, it is likely that we might arrange some events that are limited to specific age groups.

Whereabouts in York Region are your events?
We try to schedule our events at various different locations to suit members who live in different parts of the region. We also try to favour event venues that are close to major transit links, e.g. Viva, for the benefit of those who do not have the use of a car.

Can I bring guests to an event?
You can bring along one or two family members or friends, provided that you know the names and addresses of those people and will vouch that they are fully accepting of gay sexuality. When you think you might be bringing guests we ask that you tell us, before the event, the names of the people who may be accompanying you.

Can non-members attend GYRSG events?
Attendance at most of our events is restricted to members and their guests. Non-members can therefore only attend these events as guests accompanying one of our members. Sometimes our events are held in public venues such as bars or restaurants that are known to be gay-friendly. We cannot then control who else might also be present in the same establishment at the time of our event. However in this situation we would normally reserve an area or group of tables for our own exclusive use. During York Region pride week, we additionally arrange one or two public events in conjunction with York Pride Fest and these events can be attended by anyone.

How would I find the social group in a restaurant or bar?
At this type of venue we discreetly label our tables in such a way that our members are able to identify us, but without revealing the nature of our group to others. Additionally, the owners of these establishments are usually aware of our location and they or their staff would be able to direct you to our location.

Will it cost me anything to become a GYRSG member?
GYRSG is a non-profit group and membership is entirely free of charge. Most of our events are free to attend, but occasionally we may need to charge for event attendance in order to cover our costs. Event details shown on this website will clearly indicate whenever event admittance is not free.

Do you provide free food and drink at your events?
Very rarely. Normally we would expect you to pay for your own food and drinks.

Do I need to bring anything to your events?
At ALL events where alcohol is available, in order to purchase or consume it, you may be asked to produce id as proof that you are 19 or older. If you are a new member or have not attended any events for some time. the event organizer may ask you to produce your id, in order to verify that you are a GYRSG member.

Can I chat online with other GYRSG members, using this website?
No, we are not an online dating or social networking service. We are a real-life social group. For gay or bi guys who wish to find other guys online, we would recommend that you make use of the website guyslink.com. This web site is also free of charge and it allows you to very easily locate others in your own locality.