The Wise Hall Lounge, known as the “heart and soul of East Vancouver’s live music scene”. From the outside looking in, you wouldn’t expect it to be a place where live shows would be held, but wow, step inside on a Friday night and the place is packed with people dancing and enjoying the live music.
The Wise Hall Lounge was actually built back in 1925, and from then to now it has been a place that has hosted many different things, from being a kindergarten to a gymnasium, and now a live music venue in 1963. The Wise Hall Lounge has impacted many people in more ways than one.
A couple of years ago my friend called me and asked me to come down with her to see her brother’s show. I said I was down and we jumped in the car and headed down. She parked the car, we got out and I looked around confused. On the street it’s just a bunch of houses and small apartments, I asked her where it was and she pointed to the little blue building across the street. I walked up the stairs and when I walked in wow, you wouldn’t believe, really the meaning of don’t judge a book by its cover. Inside the crowds were so lively and the bar was great, not too many places are you able to score a $5 beer nowadays!
Since my first time, I’ve been back a couple of times, mainly to see Brass Camel (one of my favourite local rock bands) and every time I go I’m stunned by the community that The Wise Hall Lounge is, so many regulars and people coming together to share in the love of live music.
However, like many other classic buildings that communities love, the The Wise Hall Lounge is suffering financially, with crazy costs that are shaking the whole of Vancouver, smaller venues are feeling the pain more than ever. Right now The Wise Hall Lounge needs the community’s help, whether it’s making a small donation, spreading the word, or even attending a show to support, anything is appreciated. https://www.zeffy.com/en-CA/fundraising/c71ad7e5-43e2-4934-8857-432df24d35d3
There are some upcoming shows you can look forward to seeing at The Wise Hall Lounge. This Saturday, “Thick”, “Rain on Friday’s”, and “Wait/Less” will be taking over the stage with some awesome punk songs, the shows at 8:30 and you can score tickets here: https://do604.com/events/2024/11/2/thick-with-rain-on-sundays-tickets
If you want to get your dancing shoes on and bust out your best moves Thursday, November 14th the floor is all yours for the East Van Square Dance! Some old time classics will be playing and no experience needed, just be ready to have some fun! https://do604.com/events/2024/11/14/east-van-square-dance-tickets
If you’re looking for some fun and good times, I highly recommend checking this place out!