The First Unitarian Church on Franklin Street was abuzz once again on Thursday, November 27, 2025, as Tenderloin Tessie’s Thanksgiving Dinner tradition continued.
In addition to a ham dinner with all the trimmings, each guest received a pie baked by the Girl Scouts and a gift bag, plus they enjoyed entertainment and had the opportunity to have free haircuts and their pick of select items from the giveaway tables neatly arranged in the outdoor courtyard.
San Francisco Bay Times volunteer coordinator Juan Davila, dressed as “The Turkey,” once again this year provded entertainment and photo ops for all. Hundreds of people participate as volunteers at all of the Tenderloin Tessie events that include, not only Thanksgiving celebrations, but also meal-based events for Christmas and Easter.
Volunteers are needed to help with Tenderloin Tessie Christmas Dinner, December 25, 1–4 pm. Call 415-584-3252 or e-mail tenderlointessie@yahoo.com
“Tessie” was the drag name for Perry Spink, a performer and bartender who died in 1984 but a decade prior started the tradition of serving meals that were welcoming to all. Read more about this history and upcoming Tenderloin Tessie events at http://www.tenderlointessie.com
And check out the video, created by Sister Roma, showing the recent Tenderloin Tessie Thanksgiving celebration: https://bit.ly/3XqrCBF
Published on December 4, 2025
Recent Comments