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🚨 Our BIGGEST Event: The 11th Annual Fairies on Ferry!

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Tim W.
🚨 Our BIGGEST Event: The 11th Annual Fairies on Ferry!

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🌈 Fairies on Ferry – You Don’t Know What You’re Missing!
Here it is — not only is this our BIGGEST event of the year, it's also the moment of truth for anyone who accidentally joined a gay/bi men's dining group without reading the fine print.
Every year, as soon as we post Fairies on Ferry, we get the same messages:
“Wait… I didn’t realize this was a gay/bi men’s group…”
Really? 🤣
Well... now you know. And you're welcome to stay — just bring cash and a good attitude.

***

Over 10 years ago, the Saint Louis Gay Men’s Social Group—now disbanded—wanted a fun group outing about an hour outside the city. So they dreamed up a road trip down The Great River Road: wine at Grafton, a ferry ride across the Illinois River, and a classic family-style meal at the Wittmond Hotel.
And just like that, with a wink and a nod to “Dykes on Bikes,” Fairies on Ferry was born. A playful name, an unforgettable tradition.
Today, Dudes Dining & Destinations proudly carries it on—and for many members, it’s a can’t-miss annual favorite.

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### 🚗 Your Great River Road Adventure Includes:

🍷 Noon – Grafton Winery & Brewhaus
Our first stop! Enjoy wine, charcuterie boards, and that perfect river view from their patio or indoor seating.
⛴️ 1:30–2:00 PM – Brussels Ferry
We board the free ferry and glide across the Illinois River toward dinner... and maybe a few selfies.
🍽️ 2:30 PM-ish – Wittmond Hotel
Brussels, Illinois rolls out the homestyle hospitality. It’s an all-you-can-eat spread with:

  • Fried chicken, sausage, roast beef
  • Mashed potatoes, gravy, dumplings, corn, green beans
  • Fresh rolls and a signature relish tray
  • (Sunday bonus: those famous cinnamon rolls!)

💵 Just $23 per person – cash or check only (no cards accepted)
🛣️ After dinner, you’ve got options:

  • Hop back on the Brussels Ferry (still free)
  • Or take the scenic route through Calhoun County and ride the Golden Eagle Ferry into St. Charles County — that one's $8 one way, cash only

***

🎟️ LIMITED TO 45 SPOTS!
This event fills fast—RSVP soon to lock in your seat.

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🎶 Yes, we’re taking a ferry…
but this isn’t “Ferry Cross the Mersey”, and you won’t hear “Don’t Pay the Ferryman”—because the Brussels Ferry is free.
The Golden Eagle, on the other hand? That’ll cost you eight bucks.
And let’s talk about the other fairy...
The one who left you money under your pillow?
Tsk tsk. What’s up with that??
Our fairies bring you wine, food, a ferry ride, and a damn good time...
The kind you don’t have to fly to Disney for. 🎉 Ba-dum-tss!

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Dudes Dining & Destinations
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Grafton Winery & Brewhaus
300 W Main St ¡ Grafton, IL
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FREE
45 spots left