Last Ditch Bar cancels mask-optional night over safety concerns
Last Ditch Bar in Greenfield, Massachusetts, cancelled its planned mask-optional night on September 27, 2026, turning the event into a private gathering after staff cited safety concerns, which frustrated patrons. The bar had announced on September 12, 2026 that it would lift its mask requirement for evenings in an effort to boost sales. The decision was criticised by disability advocates and sparked an online boycott by some members of the local queer community.
The controversy attracted national attention, with coverage by outlets such as The Free Press and Slate Magazine. Comedian Bill Maher later mocked the left-leaning backlash on HBO’s Real Time, noting the venue’s financial difficulties.
Actors
Last Ditch
Jackie Matellian
Soe Noire
Massachusetts LGBT Chamber of Commerce
Locations
Greenfield, Massachusetts, United States
