THE SCENE
Vancouver has a vibrant, well-established gay and lesbian community that revolves around the city's uber-trendy West End. The main thoroughfare, Davie Street, is the hub of most of the activity, with its impressive array of boutiques, bars and coffee-shops. Come August, the already dynamic atmosphere crackles with life as Pride Week celebrations draw over 100,000 spectators. But at any time of the year, Vancouver has some fabulous places live-music. Here are the hotspots to celebrate...
THE ESSENTIAL VENUES
Celebrities Night Club
1022 Davie Street, Vancouver, BC, V6E 1M3 tel: (604) 689-3180
Celebrities Night Club
Celebrities stands as a mecca in Vancouver's nightlife and is famously touted as the city's hottest, one-size-fits-all gay bar since its reopening in 2003. The club is easy to find, located near the rainbow-adorned entrance to Davie Village. Once inside, the talented DJ's, amazing light shows, 6 visual screens and friendly staff make every visit memorable, whatever your particular taste . And with its multi-levels, popular balcony, lounge areas and 6 bars, it's no wonder that Celebrities has been so popular for so long. The establishment is also available for charity fundraisers, events or private parties.
Lick
455 Abbott Street, Vancouver, BC, V6B 2L2 tel: (604) 685-7777
Formerly operating under the names The Mix and Milk, Lick is primarily a lesbian establishment but also welcomes gay men and allies of the community. The ownership are not only conscious of supporting and nurturing promoters and talented female DJ's within the queer community while positively sharing their diversity with the Vancouver community... they're also ecologically conscious, using recycled paper products for all their advertising and office needs.
Majestic
1138 Davie Street, Vancouver, BC, V6E 1N1 tel: (604) 669-2013
Attention Club Boys! Opulent music, dance, design and art are the order of business at Vancouver's newest gay restaurant and lounge. With fantastic food, world-class sound & lighting and fantastic DJ's such as Nick Bertossi, Dicky Doo and MKW, Majestic has what it takes to remain a large part of the scene.
Numbers
1042 Davie Street, Vancouver, BC, V6E 1M3 tel: (604) 685-4077
Numbers has a good time for everyone. Whether you're looking to shoot some pool, throw some dart, drink some beers, or just dance the night away, one of the 5 separate rooms and 3 bars will cater to your fancy, whether you're a Bear or a Diva or anywhere in between. Flare for the stage? A natural showman? The amazing lights and fantastic sound only make you look and sound better as you belt out your favourite karaoke songs!
Oasis Ultralounge Lounge
1240 Thurlow Street, Vancouver, BC, V6E 1X5 tel: (604) 685-1724
Neighbouring Score Sports Restaurant, Oasis is a trendy concept lounge in the heart of Davie Street Village and a favourite hang-out for the professional set. Highlights of this chic establishment are the sumptuous tapas menu, the innovative cocktails and the heated, covered garden patio. Popping in for an après-office drink? Dining and dancing into the weekend? Oasis stands as the premiere West End destination for intimate evenings or party functions.
Oasis Ultralounge Lounge
The Odyssey Nightclub
1251 Howe Street, Vancouver, BC, V6Z 1R3 tel: (604) 689-5256
A popular queen haunt, the Odyssey is one of Vancouver's premiere gay bars, supplying liberal doses of the latest, greatest dance tracks and some of the country's most dazzling drag revues, not to mention a weekly supply of male strippers. From Industry Nights on Mondays to Saturday nights Fallen Angel Go-Go Shows, this establishment prides itself on outrageous fun!