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Cellar Jazz Club

The original cellar jazz club at 2514 Watson Street opened 70 years ago in 1956. Join us June 30th 2026 at 3pm to acknowledge this legendary jazz venue's brief but impactful time in Vancouver history.

Photo credit: Bill Boyle. Musicians John Daw, trumpet and Harold Krause, piano, at the Cellar.

History

Join VHF and special guests on Tuesday, June 30th at 3pm to celebrate the unveiling of Places That Matter plaque #101, which honors 70 years since the Cellar Jazz Club first opened its doors on Watson Street in 1956. Although the club closed in 1964 and the location has been redeveloped, we recognize the lasting impact and enduring legacy it holds in musical history, as well as its influence on the contemporary jazz scene in Vancouver and beyond.

All are welcome to attend, share stories and learn more.

Share your memories and stories of the cellar!

Media & Photos

Ornette Coleman (alto saxophone), Ben Tucker (bass), Sonny Gillette (drums) at the Cellar. Photographer unknown
John Dawe (trumpet) and Harold Krause (piano) at the Cellar. Photo by Bill Boyle

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near the public art piece

2514 Watson Street
Mount Pleasant

49.262549, -123.100175

49.2626914, -123.100154

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If you would like to support the Places That Matter project, help us by sponsoring a plaque, an online site or by making a donation. Contact [email protected] for more information or call VHF at 604-264-9642.

THANK YOU sponsors, donors and supporters!

Vancouver Heritage Foundation

Registered Charity # 891765968

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