With the summer season in its final weeks, now is the time to take advantage of patio sipping to the sound of guitar strumming and mesmerizing vocals. One of the things that makes Vancouver such a wonderful place to live and visit is our talented community of artists, including the many local musicians that frequent Vancouver’s restaurants, nightlife spots, and venues! While many of the businesses that host live musicians feature these artists year-round, some can only host in the summer months when the weather is warm and dry. So, let’s explore some of the happenin’ spots around town to listen to live music, and discover a few of the artists you may spot in the Couve this season!
Maryhill Winery
Starting off at the Vancouver Waterfront, venture into Maryhill Winery to listen to live music coupled with some incredible wines and plates. Situated right on the water, Maryhill offers spectacular views of the Columbia River on a sunny day. Sourcing their grapes right here in the state of Washington, Maryhill offers tastes that are a true reflection of the flavors of the Pacific Northwest and the state we proudly call home. Featuring a rotating selection of artists, sit either inside or out on the patio to take in these musicians’ unique talents. Maryhill’s featured artists typically pop up on Sundays, Mondays, and/or Wednesdays, but to be certain, we recommend checking Maryhill’s Music and Event Schedule to verify before you visit (and make sure you’re looking at the Vancouver location)!
David Tutmark performs at Maryhill Winery in Vancouver.
Willful Wine at the Grant House
Take a step back in time at the historic Grant House on Officers Row, where you’ll find Willful Wine and their decadent selection of wine, cocktails, food, and more. Every Wednesday night from 5 to 7 p.m. through the summer season, you’ll find live musicians showcasing their specialties in this historic space. Learn a bit about Vancouver’s past while you take in the amazing performances and delicious cuisine. Check the Willful Wine Events page for a full list of Wednesday night music, as well as additional performances and events!
Farrar's Bistro
Want to avoid the business of the downtown area? Head up to the Felida neighborhood and stop in at Farrar’s Bistro! One of Vancouver’s amazing hidden gems, this restaurant creates a welcoming ambiance with an extensive enclosed outdoor patio space, decorated with greenery and cozy seating. Bring a group of friends or dine solo with a diverse menu in a communal and warm atmosphere. You can typically catch local musicians out on the patio Friday and Saturday nights from 7 to 10 p.m. Check the Farrar’s Bistro website for the full lineup!
Josh Cole Bluegrass Band performs at Farrar's Bistro
Brickhouse
A Vancouver staple since 2009, Brickhouse on Main Street offers an array of events including live music! A fun pub-style atmosphere serving up cocktails, beer, and bar food, a stop into Brickhouse is always guaranteed to make for a fun night out. Open late every day, catch an array of musicians at this spot, typically starting between 8 and 9 p.m. on varying days of the week. Check the Brickhouse website for the full entertainment schedule!
Brothers Cascadia Brewing
Looking for some music up north? Make your way to Brothers Cascadia Brewing in Hazel Dell! While the weather is still warm and dry, Brothers Cascadia is the perfect spot to catch local bands and entertainment in a lively atmosphere. With an extensive patio that features picnic tables and plenty of open space to dance, the whole family is welcome to come along to this fun, kid-friendly spot! Head into the brewery to try a few of Brothers Cascadia’s delicious craft brews, and out on the patio, find a few of Vancouver’s local food carts. Featuring The Mighty Bowl, La Oie Cajun Cuisine, Banh Mi Saigon, and Haute Box Woodfire Pizza, there’s a dish for everyone in the family to enjoy. Musicians are typically hosted on Monday nights from 6 to 8 p.m. Call or reach out to Brothers Cascadia Brewing for more details!
Carl Wirkkala & The Whistle Punks perform at Brothers Cascadia Brewing
Pour Choices Pub
Pop into one of Vancouver’s newer spots and listen to some tunes at Pour Choices Pub! Founded by a group of locals and decorated with colorful art pieces, hanging plants, and fun communal seating, this pub is the perfect spot to gather with a few friends or build new community in the Uptown Village neighborhood. With live music every Friday night at 7 p.m., Pour Choices is sure to become a new favorite stop for live music on Main Street.
13 Coins
Back on the Vancouver Waterfront, head into 13 Coins for a dim-lit, upscale ambiance with stunning cocktails, wine, and delicious dishes. This space is the perfect spot for a night out with friends or a quiet date night. Finish the evening with a stroll along the waterfront on a warm summer evening. Local performers are featured every Friday and Saturday night from 8 to 11 p.m. Find all the details about the performers on the 13 Coins Vancouver Live Music page!
Robert Meade performs at 13 Coins Vancouver
Billy Blues Bar and Grill
A Vancouver staple known for amazing live music, venture up to Hazel Dell and plan a night at Billy Blues Bar and Grill. A classic spot in the Vancouver community founded on the vision of two brothers, this venue is the perfect place to celebrate good times and put on your dancing shoes in the heart of the Hazel Dell neighborhood. Enjoy delicious bar food and drinks alongside some amazing bands every Wednesday through Saturday night. This venue is not to be missed and is sure to make for a memorable experience every time. Check out the Billy Blues Live Music Schedule for the full lineup! *Note that cover charges are typically in place on Friday and Saturday nights.
Vancouver Farmers Market & Waterfront Buskers/Performers
Another great way to discover local artists in the community is by interacting with the local buskers and performers in the downtown area. Many talented musicians can be found displaying their skills on weekends at the Vancouver Farmers Market adjacent to Esther Short Park. Additionally, in the afternoons and evenings, you may find more performers along the Vancouver Waterfront and the Grant Street Pier. Stop and appreciate their work and drop a tip if you like what you hear!
Cain Braveheart performs at Vancouver Farmers Market
Now is the time to get out and celebrate the wonderful talents Vancouver holds—so let’s start listening and appreciating more of the voices right here in our own community! Head to our Music & Performing Events page for year-round opportunities to listen to tunes from local and big name artists.