The Commodore Ballroom is one a legendary venue in Vancouver being one of the oldest and longest standing venues to see live music. It first opened it’s doors in 1929 which is close to Pharaoh times for this young city. Today, it’s a local favorite to see bands coming through town. The venue holds just under 1,000 people; acts that come through usually have a strong following but aren’t big enough to sell out GM Place. I’ve seen everything from Tragically Hip to Cat Power to Arcade Fire to Kardinall Offishall play here.

The Comoodore is set up as one giant room with 3 bars on the main floor and another bar in a loft that overlooks the crowd and stage. It has a huge dance floor that’s legendary in it’s own right with it’s “spring” design that comprises of a layer of horse hair under the floor. There are nice big circular tables for groups all around the dance floor and tiered seating all around to just chill and still get a glimpse of the stage. The band plays high school gym style: above the crowd on a raised stage at the back of the room so rarely do you get an obstructed view.

I like seeing shows at the Commodore because I have the opportunity to be within the first few rows of the stage or sit at a table having a beer and still feel close to the act. It’s also a great opportunity to catch acts that are on the rise that will soon outsell venues like this and go to bigger venues.

Website: Live Nation Website
Location: 868 Granville St., Vancouver, BC

Fabulous Commodore (Photo Credit)
Commodore Crowd (Photo Credit)

All Downtown Granville Street bands, live music