The Victory Square Block Party is a free community event with live music in downtown Vancouver not far from Gastown on the Sunday of the Labour Day Long Weekend.
Live Music at Victory Square in Vancouver
The Victory Square Block Party usually takes place on the first Sunday in September each year. Due to the coronavirus pandemic, the event was cancelled in 2020 and 2021, but back though in 2022. In 2023 the Victory Square Block Party took place on Sunday, September 3rd.
Victory Square is a small park with a cenotaph at 316 West Hastings Street. It’s located about four blocks south of Gastown’s Water Street, has a grassy lawn and is surrounded by beautiful older buildings. The event is free to attend and features live music and activities for all ages.
Block Party Performers
There was not an exact schedule for the 2023 musical lineup as of the end of August. However, below were some of the bands who were set to play at the event. When you look at the list you’ll know most aren’t big-name groups nor completely mainstream. Some of them though are still pretty good, especially if you like alternative and up-and-coming bands.
- Dani Your Darling
- Devon Parkin
- Doozy
- Girly
- Ma$$ank
- Porch Fling
- VOT
- Clara Sanchez
Note: What’s great music to some, isn’t so hot for others. Also, what’s a “best place” for some folks isn’t so appealing to others. Some people will love this music, venue and the block party atmosphere, while others won’t see the point.
Tips & Advice
Below are some tips and bits of information to help you make the most of your visit to the Victory Square event (and help you decide if it’s something for you, or if the ticketed Concerts at the PNE or free Bands on the Beach event at Harrison Hot Springs are more your style).
TIP #1: Gastown is a popular tourist attraction, and Victory Square is a pretty spot. It’s close to Vancouver’s Downtown East Side, however, which is one of the city’s poorer and “more colourful” neighbourhoods.
If you’re downtown near Gastown and you like live punk and alternative music, then the Victory Square Block Party is definitely worth checking out. Don’t expect anyone to be wearing Gucci suits, however, and don’t be surprised to be approached by more than one panhandler in the area.
TIP #2: Despite being close to Vancouver’s Downtown East Side, the area is safe, especially during the day. If you’re uncomfortable with homelessness, though, then don’t head further east along Hastings Street.
TIP #3: If you like punk and alternative music, and you’re looking for a free venue in an urban yet pretty spot, then this is the place to go.
TIP #4: For some people, the Victory Square Block Party is a “best place to be” on the Sunday of the Labour Day Long Weekend. For others, however, not so much. Other venues with live music on the first weekend in September most years include the following:
- The Pacific National Exhibition – with both free and ticketed concerts all weekend.
- Bands on the Beach – free live music (including country) at Harrison Hot Springs on the Saturday and Sunday.
Other Information
For more information about the Block Party, click Victory Square Block Party.
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