On the third Saturday of every month, something celestial descends on the second floor of Club Pittsburgh. It’s not a vision or a fantasy, it’s Heaven, a trans-centered, after-hours dance party, and it’s becoming one of the most affirming nightlife experiences in Pittsburgh.
“Heaven is basically an extension of the club,” says Angel, the party’s creator and head of staff at Club Pittsburgh. “But we wanted it to feel different. Like its own world. There’s only so many spaces where trans people can be themselves in every capacity. We aim to facilitate that.”
With mattresses on the dance floor, a complimentary open bar, and clothing-optional freedom, Heaven blends celebration and intimacy in a way that few parties dare to. The event welcomes everyone who enters Club Pittsburgh that night, and offers a separate $15 admission for those who want to head straight to the second floor for dancing and vibes.
What started small, just 15 to 20 attendees at the door, has blossomed into the club’s busiest monthly night, with over 100 to 130 people circulating through the space, peaking around 90 on the dance floor. “It’s incredible to see the way the community has shown up,” says Angel.
Heaven begins around 11:00 p.m. as a follow-up to the club’s T4M night, which itself focuses on trans-for-men socializing. On T4 nights, the club’s gym is converted into a T4T Lounge, a private, trans-for-trans space designed for connection and respite away from the cis gaze.
“Even during Heaven or Plato’s Retreat, we don’t stop being a gay bathhouse,” Angel noted. “But we do make space for other kinds of queer intimacy.”
Beyond the dance floor, Heaven has been a launchpad for trans DJs. Angel has helped aspiring artists get their start through performance opportunities and often lends out equipment to those still building their setup. One standout is DJ 2afrobori4u, who learned to spin entirely at Club Pittsburgh and is now a recurring talent at the event.
“We don’t have to book the biggest DJ names,” Angel said. “We want to give back to the community, especially trans folks, who’ve always been pushing the boundaries of music anyway.”
Heaven has also drawn the attention of other queer party crews across the city. Collaborations with Heat Signal, NBS, and future plans with Obsidian show a growing network of community-powered nightlife.
“We waited a while for the right idea,” said Assistant Manager Jason. “We knew we didn’t want to compete with Jellyfish or bring in Berlin-level acts. We just wanted a sexy, community-driven dance party that makes people feel good.”
The result is something distinctly Pittsburgh: scrappy, inclusive, sensual, and powered by care.
The next Heaven is scheduled for February 21, 2026. For trans folks interested in DJing, Angel invites you to reach out via the Heaven Afters Instagram.