Merende, derived from the Italian word rooted in the Latin merĕnda, meaning "things to be deserved," embodies celebration, a happening, and a space to care for ourselves, our time, and our reality through collective energy, sharing, and generosity.

Merende strives to create an open queer zone — a space to feel at home while encountering others, a public place to pause, kick off your shoes, find recognition, dance without restraint, and exchange practices and ideas. Tattoos, manicures, DJ sets, editorial consultations for challenging messages or impossible projects, magic tricks, rugs, amulets — all populate this real and imaginary space where one can simply stop and exist.

Merende is also a fluid collective of individuals and artists. A core group of “residents” travels and connects with local guests to form a joyful, ephemeral community.