Coasting through Long Beach on the Big RED Bus while stopping for drinks at some of the city’s finest establishments. What could be better? It’s for charity.
The pub crawl, which will take place Saturday evening, will offer attendees the chance to benefit the AIDS Food Store of Long Beach by requiring a donation of at least 10 canned foods and/or non-perishable foods.
Those who donate, as space on the bus allows, will be given a three-hour coastline tour with stops along the way.
The pub crawl acts as a way to advertise the fifth annual Red High Heel Party “Masquerade” later this month, said organizer Tom Crowe.
The 21-and-over party will take place on August 16 at MADHaus, located at 624 Pacific Avenue, and will be sponsored by Finlandia Vodka, Korbel Champagne, Soultry Soul Food and local mom and pop shops. Tickets range between $25 and $50.
“The Big RED Bus is something that screams Long Beach, and generates a thrill of excitement each time passersby see it roll down the street,” Crowe said. “We’ve used the Bus for past events, and in comments following, it’s been enjoyed by all that get a chance to partake in the after-party antics that we do each year. This time, we decided to build up the party by having a pre-party bus ride with a twist.”
Crowe said the pub crawl is also a great way to let residents know about the Red High Heel Party, and it’s produced by a group of friends and neighbors who put on the fundraiser each year, out of their own pockets. Crowe said he personally covered the cost of using the Bus.
“How we benefit from this Pub Crawl, is to show that we exist, that we’re here again this year to keep the AIDS & Cancer Life Emergency Fund (ACLEF) alive to help those who need it most, and to have a rip roaring great time with friends… while doing a good deed in the process,” he said. “Afterall, we’re a tight-knit community, and we look out for each other.”
The Bus tour will take place Saturday evening. A schedule for the event is as follows, per Crowe:
4PM – Meet up at Hamburger Mary’s, located at 330 Pine Ave.
5PM – Board the Big RED Bus
5PM to 8PM – Pub crawl (with surprises)
8PM – Arrive back at Mary’s