Find Underground venues for rent in Vancouver, Canada

About Vancouver

Vancouver is a vibrant and diverse city located on the west coast of Canada. It boasts a mild climate, with summer temperatures typically reaching the low-mid 20s Celsius (70-80F). With the breathtaking backdrop of mountains, beautiful beaches, and lush forests, it's no surprise that Vancouver consistently ranks as one of the world's most livable cities.

The vibrant culture of Vancouver has bred a thriving underground scene. From art galleries to private parties to live music gatherings, there are countless hidden gems for creatives to explore and discover. By hosting events in these off-the-beaten-path spots, artists can create an atmosphere that's free from judgment and open to self-expression.

Additionally, these smaller venues often offer an intimate setting that encourages attendees to make meaningful connections with each other. Depending on the specific event or venue rules, visitors may be able to bring their own beverages and snacks, which can result in significant cost savings over ticketed events at larger venues.

As such, underground events in Vancouver present an ideal opportunity for creative expression and community building within its unique urban environment.

Underground Venue Options in Vancouver

• Lighting
  The lighting in an underground venue can be quite different from that of a traditional concert hall. Most underground venues opt for a more intimate and atmospheric setting, which is achieved through lower lighting levels. This can often make for a more challenging photography environment, but can also result in some truly unique and stunning images.
  
  
• Equipment
  As with any event gig, it’s important to have the right equipment for the job. If you’re planning to shoot photos in an underground venue, you’ll likely need a wider lens than usual to capture the space, as well as a fast shutter speed to freeze the action. A tripod can also be helpful in low-light situations.
  
  
• Photographers
  Underground venues offer a unique challenge for photographers. Besides the lower lighting levels, these venues often have tight spaces and crowds of people. This can make it challenging to get clear shots of the event. When you hire a professional photographer, you won’t have to worry about these issues as they can resolve them and take some amazing photos.
  
  
• Videographers
  Shooting video in an underground venue can be a bit tricky. The lower lighting levels can make it difficult to get a well-lit shot, and the crowds can make it hard to get a steady shot. A professional videographer can take care of these minor problems and get you some amazing footage in an underground venue.

Underground Venue Vendors in Vancouver

• Julie Doro Photography
  Julie Doro is a photographer who takes beautiful, natural-looking pictures that highlight the uniqueness of her subjects. She has eight years of experience and uses only the best industry gear—cameras, lenses, and software. While she specializes in weddings and family photography, she also offers event photography for occasions like Christmas parties, trade shows, exhibitions, conferences, meetings, and more!
  
  
• Vancouver Sound and Lights
  Vancouver Sound and Lights is a one-stop shop for event needs, such as staging, lighting, sound, projectors, tables, chairs, tents, and more. Whether your event is outdoor or indoor, above-ground or underground, they can provide flexible event solutions to fit your venue. Loyal customers like the professionalism, friendliness, and flexibility the team exhibits when dealing with their clients.
  
  
• Leaders Media Ltd.
  Leaders Media specializes in videography services for online courses, talks, live-streaming events, and onsite events. Unlike other videography companies, Leaders Media provides a custom approach to each event, depending on the organizer’s vision and the project’s goals. The team uses live switching during production, saving them 80% of editing time. Leaders Media has expansive experience in production, and they have worked with clients such as TEDxSurrey, RGF, and UBC.

Pros and Cons of Underground Venues in Vancouver

A unique atmosphere cannot always be found in traditional above-ground venues, so let's cover the pros and cons of underground venues in Vancouver.

Advantages

• The possibilities for underground clubs in Vancouver are endless. You can host more unusual types of events in this type of venue, such as avant-garde fashion shows, concerts, and more.
  
  
• They may be more personal than above-ground locations, and they can be less expensive to hire.
  
  
• Underground facilities may give visitors an experience unlike any other.

Disadvantages

• It may be challenging to find appropriate lighting and sound equipment for underground events.
  
  
• Crowd control can be more difficult in underground venues, so security must be ensured.
  
  
• There may be limited exit options in case of an emergency, so it's important to take precautionary measures such as stricter security policies or a limited number of people allowed inside.

Tips on How to Organize Underground Events in Vancouver

Organizing underground events in Vancouver can be a daunting task, yet it can also be an incredibly fulfilling and rewarding experience. Here are some tips to help you get started on organizing an underground event in Vancouver that guests will never forget.

• Research the location: It is essential to find an appropriate underground venue for your event in Vancouver. Look into the type of space you need (such as a warehouse or an art gallery) and make sure it is safe for guests and has all the necessary amenities. Consider if there are any potential noise complaints or restrictions on operating hours.
  
  
• Get permits: You will need to get permission from local authorities and other relevant organizations before hosting an event. This could include getting a license from the fire department, obtaining zoning permits, and/or paying taxes on ticket sales. Make sure you know all the regulations that apply to organizing events in Vancouver so that you can be prepared.
  
  
• Stay organized: As soon as tickets go on sale, keep track of who is coming by creating a list of attendees or providing numbered wristbands upon arrival at the door. Have a system for tracking payments and verifying IDs for those under 21 if alcohol will be served at your event.
  
  
• Designate meeting points: Identify spots inside or outside where guests can meet up with their friends should they get separated during the evening. Have signs placed around these areas, so everyone knows where they are located in case they need to reunite quickly in an emergency.
  
  
• Provide security/medical personnel: Hiring professional security guards at entrances and exits ensures safety while having medical personnel available helps ensure a smooth running event with minimal risk involved for everyone attending it—especially if alcohol is served at your gathering!

Famous Locations in Vancouver

• The Shipyards
  Located in North Vancouver, The Shipyards is a one-of-a-kind harborfront neighborhood full of history, culture, and fun. Built in 1906, it started as an industrial operation and then transformed into a dynamic public space over the years. It is now home to unique shops, restaurants, cafes, and services. In the winter, The Shipyards is transformed into a winter wonderland with the region’s largest outdoor skating rink. And in the summer, you can cool off at the splash park—making it the perfect destination for all seasons! Plus, the restaurant, event center, tap house, coffee shop, boat docks, cocktail lounge, and retail shops will keep you coming back for more!
  
  
• Shipbuilders' Square
  The community stage at Shipbuilders' Square hosts regular events like festivals, plays, markets, concerts, and buskers. The stage wasn't built just for any occasion—it's a monument to the many individuals who worked in the shipyard from 1906 to 1992. The historic shipyard launched over 450 ships during its time in operation, including Victory and merchant marine vessels.
  
  
• Cates Deck
  If you're in North Vancouver and looking for a nice spot to enjoy a beverage with a waterfront view, then Cates Deck is the place for you. It's located between Lonsdale Quay and the Polygon Gallery and features a small to medium-sized wooden deck above the water. While it may seem like a simple spot, it's one of the only eight designated public spaces in the city where you're allowed to drink alcohol. You can bring your own booze to the deck except when the beer garden is open, during which you have to purchase beer from the vendor. If you're searching for a wonderful place to unwind and take in the scenery, Cates Deck is definitely worth seeing.