As 2025 comes to a close, I find myself filled with gratitude, reflecting on what this year has meant for Christopher Street Tours. This year officially marked seven years in business. It some ways, it has been the most exciting year yet, with an expanded team and new LGBTQ+ offerings. And yet, in other ways, especially because of the current political climate in the United States, it has felt more challenging than ever. But more than anything, it reaffirmed why this work matters: to share stories, uplift voices, and create meaningful, community-centered experiences rooted in LGBTQ+ history.
A Growing Team
One of the most meaningful moments of the year was hosting our first-ever Christopher Street Tours in-person team gathering. The pouring rain kept us from our initial team activity (a walking tour – what else?!) but we were able to pivot to drinks at Julius’, the first stop on our own walking tour. This historic queer space was the perfect place to discuss our goals, vision, and strategy as a team, and celebrate how far we’ve come. What began years ago as a one-person passion project has now grown into something bigger and more collaborative.
This year, we were thrilled to welcome two new tour guides, Tim and Devlyn, whose knowledge, care, and storytelling have strengthened our offerings and helped ensure that LGBTQ+ history is shared with depth, accuracy, and heart.
Expanding Beyond Tours
In 2025, Christopher Street Tours continued to evolve beyond walking tours. We branched into queer events and experiences, creating space for creativity, dialogue, and queer joy. From unforgettable drag performances with post-show talkbacks to zine-making workshops, and film screenings with queer filmmakers, and meet-and-greets with LGBTQ+ activists, these experiences allowed us to engage LGBTQ+ history in new, dynamic ways, bringing LGBTQ+ history to the present moment.
Speaking Across the Country
This year also took Christopher Street Tours on the road. I had the honor of traveling across the country for speaking engagements – from New York to Boston to San Francisco – working with corporate groups, middle and high school students, colleges and universities, and professional organizations. These moments reinforced how urgently LGBTQ+ history is needed not just in New York City, but everywhere.
Recognition and Visibility
2025 brought exciting recognition that helped expand our reach and amplify our mission. Christopher Street Tours was featured in NYC Tourism + Conventions’ “Founded by NYC” initiative, highlighting locally founded businesses shaping the city’s cultural landscape.
We were also honored to be featured in major publications including Wanderlust, National Geographic Travel, and Condé Nast Traveller, helping introduce LGBTQ+ history to an even broader global audience.
Additionally, being listed on the Tourism Cares Meaningful Travel Map was a proud milestone. This global initiative highlights sustainable, community-led travel experiences that create positive impact for local communities, travelers, and the environment.
Community, Collaboration, and Connection
This year underscored the power of collaboration. We were proud to partner with other LGBTQ+ walking tour organizations along the East Coast, including Beyond the Bell in Philadelphia and A Tour of Her Own in Washington, DC. These partnerships reminded us that queer history is interconnected, expansive, and stronger when shared together.
Thousands of Stories, One Shared History
Above all, 2025 was about community. This year, we welcomed thousands of guests from around the world, each bringing curiosity, openness, and their own lived experiences. Together, we walked historic streets, honored trailblazers, and created space for reflection, learning, and pride. Every tour, talk, workshop, and conversation reinforced the notion that LGBTQ+ history is essential to our lives and our collective history.
Looking Ahead
Seven years in, Christopher Street Tours continues to grow with intention and purpose. As we move into 2026, I’m excited to build on this momentum – expanding our reach, deepening our impact, and continuing to uplift the voices of those who paved the way before us.
Thank you to everyone who walked with us this year. The story continues, and we’re just getting started.
With gratitude and pride,
Michael Venturiello
Founder, Christopher Street Tours
