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Edmonton Welcomes A New Era with Two Gay Bars This Summer

After almost ten years, the city of Edmonton is set to enhance its LGBTQ+ nightlife with the opening of two gay bars this summer.

Evolution Wonderlounge is preparing to launch a new establishment on Jasper Avenue at 115 Street, coinciding with the closure of its longtime downtown location on 103 Street near 102 Avenue.

“This transition pushed us to explore new options, leading to the decision to operate both venues simultaneously until our existing lease expires,” stated Rob Browatzke, co-owner of Evolution Wonderlounge.

The new venue will inhabit the space of the former Reign Premium Lounge & Kitchen, which has been vacant since January. Browatzke received news from the landlord about the availability of the location, now set to be named ‘Evo,’ offering exciting new possibilities for its patrons.

The Wîhkwêntôwin location of Evo will feature two floors designated for dining as well as various events.

Evo is aiming for an earlier opening compared to the typical nightclub hours in order to introduce happy hour cocktails and a dinner menu. The venue also plans to expand its weeknight offerings, including trivia, bingo, and karaoke nights, which Browatzke hopes will attract a broader audience.

“When we first started in 2013, we operated every day and had a happy hour, but it didn’t resonate with the crowd because of the space’s basement location,” Browatzke reflected. “For now, the live performances and dancing that patrons associate with Evolution Wonderlounge will not transfer to the new venue until we officially close our current location.”

However, the original Evolution site has faced challenges, particularly with incidents of vandalism. On December 22, 2024, an individual was recorded on surveillance footage damaging the window of the nightclub, directly over a poster that read “Protect Trans Kids.”

Earlier in April 2024, police reported that three individuals were involved in removing and damaging a Pride flag, discarding it in a nearby garbage bin. Between January and July of the same year, the business experienced six separate incidents of broken glass and windows.

“The ongoing construction and crime in the vicinity were becoming increasingly problematic,” Browatzke remarked.

A Significant Step for Visibility

Ron Byers, the director of Rainbow Story Hub, views the opening of a gay bar at street level as a crucial advancement in visibility for the LGBTQ+ community.

“Historically, most of these establishments have been situated in basements or on upper floors; very few are directly on the main level. This partly stems from the fear of being outed,” Byers explained. He noted that the first gay bar in Canada launched in 1970, shortly after the decriminalization of homosexuality by the government.

Byers emphasized that early queer spaces often required memberships and were thus less accessible. “Gaining entry usually involved intense scrutiny at the door to determine if you posed a threat,” he said.

Despite growing acceptance of the LGBTQ+ community, Byers noted the ongoing necessity for dedicated spaces, particularly for individuals coming to terms with their identities. “While there are more accessible ordinary bars and restaurants, a specific environment for the queer community remains vital for those who might not feel comfortable in public settings,” he said.

Browatzke concurred, especially in light of the current political environment in Alberta, where recent legislation has impacted trans and gender-diverse youth. “Given the current climate that seems to be leaning toward anti-queer, anti-trans, and anti-drag sentiments, venues like this hold increased importance. An establishment that is readily visible and accessible can foster excitement and engagement within the community,” he stated.

With a history spanning over 12 years, Evolution has been the sole gay bar in Edmonton since 2016, following the closure of Buddys Nite Club and Woody’s Video Bar, both located on Jasper Avenue at 117 Street. The existing downtown location will remain open until October, allowing the city to experience a vibrant gay nightlife scene with two venues operating throughout the summer.

Source
globalnews.ca