Edmonton is a city known for its vibrant arts and music scene, offering music lovers plenty of exciting places to see live music in Edmonton. From cozy jazz clubs to large, buzzing concert halls, there is always a great venue ready to showcase incredible local and international talent.
In Edmonton, the variety of live music venues means that no matter your taste in music, there’s something to make you merry. You can enjoy smooth jazz in a laid-back setting, listen to the soulful sounds of blues, or dance to upbeat country tunes at iconic spots. For those who love rock, pop, or classical music, Edmonton’s venues feature a rich blend of genres.
In this post, I will show you some of the best places to watch live music in Edmonton that will deliver unforgettable performances.
1. The Aviary
The Aviary is a hidden gem in Edmonton’s live music scene. This intimate venue holds up to 160 people, making it the perfect spot for those who want a close, personal experience with live music. Known for its cozy atmosphere, The Aviary hosts not only live music but also art shows, private parties, and even pop-up food events. This variety keeps things exciting and makes it a go-to spot for indie music lovers and those who appreciate a creative vibe.
What makes The Aviary stand out is its versatility. It’s a welcoming place where local and emerging artists can shine, offering a laid-back space to enjoy fresh sounds in an artistic setting. The small venue ensures that every performance feels special and unique.
- Address: 9314 111 Ave NW, Edmonton, AB T5G 0A3
- Phone: (780) 233-3635
- Visit: The Aviary
2. The Starlite Room
The Starlite Room is one of Edmonton’s most iconic venues, located in a historic 1925 brick building in the heart of downtown. Over the years, it has become a popular spot for live concerts, offering a mix of genres from indie rock to heavy metal. The venue’s rich history adds to its charm, making it a favourite destination for both local and international artists.
With its central location and intimate atmosphere, The Starlite Room is perfect for those who enjoy diverse music styles. The venue regularly hosts a wide range of events, including rock, electronic, and even themed dance parties. Some of the upcoming shows in 2024 include artists like Forest Blakk and Carnifex, reflecting the venue’s versatile music lineup.
For those looking to explore places to see live music in Edmonton, The Starlite Room is a must-visit.
- Address: 10030 102 St NW, Edmonton, AB T5J 0V6
- Phone: (780) 428-1099
- Visit: The Starlite Room
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3. Cook County Saloon
Cook County Saloon has been Edmonton’s go-to spot for country music since 1981. With over 40 years of history, this legendary venue is known for its lively atmosphere and commitment to showcasing Alberta’s homegrown country talent. As soon as you step inside, you’ll feel the authentic country vibes, from the wooden dance floors to the upbeat performances that get the crowd on their feet.
What sets Cook County Saloon apart is its welcoming and energetic environment. Whether you’re there for a live band or just want to experience the electric energy of a night filled with dancing, it’s the perfect place for country music lovers. You’ll often find both local and touring country artists playing here, making it a must-visit venue in Edmonton.
- Address: 8010 Gateway Blvd NW, Edmonton, AB T6E 6A2
- Phone: (780) 432-2665
- Visit: Cook County Saloon
4. Union Hall
Union Hall is one of Edmonton’s premier venues for live music, this location offers a spacious setting that can accommodate large crowds. It’s a popular spot for both international and local artists, making it a key player in Edmonton’s vibrant music scene. The venue is known for hosting a wide range of music genres, from rock and metal to electronic and hip-hop, ensuring there’s something for everyone.
What makes Union Hall stand out is its excellent sound system and stage setup, providing concert-goers with an immersive audio-visual experience. With a large dance floor and plenty of space, it’s ideal for fans who love energetic performances and crowd interaction. Upcoming concerts include a variety of high-energy shows, making this a must-visit destination for live music in Edmonton.
- Address: 6240 99 St NW, Edmonton, AB T6E 6C7
- Phone: (780) 702-2582
- Visit: Union Hall
5. Commercial Hotel-Blues On Whyte Pub
Blues On Whyte Pub, located inside the historic Commercial Hotel, is an iconic spot for live blues music in Edmonton. This laid-back venue has been a beloved part of the city’s music scene for decades, making it a must-visit for blues lovers. With its casual vibe, you can enjoy live performances while relaxing at the bar, shooting pool, or even hitting the dance floor.
Known for its authentic atmosphere, Blues On Whyte brings in local and touring blues bands, offering nightly live shows that create a warm and inviting environment. Its mix of live music, friendly crowd, and classic pub setting makes it the perfect place to unwind and enjoy top-quality blues.
If you’re searching for places to see live music in Edmonton, Blues On Whyte Pub delivers a genuine and soulful experience that captures the heart of blues music.
- Address: 10329 82 Ave NW, Edmonton, AB T6E 1Z9
- Phone: (825) 333-3583
- Visit: Blues On Whyte Pub
6. Midway Music Hall
Midway Music Hall is one of my favourite places to enjoy live music in Edmonton. Known for its versatility, this space regularly hosts top artists and DJs, bringing a mix of live concerts, DJ sets, and themed events. From electronic music to rock and hip-hop, Midway Music Hall offers something for every music lover.
The venue’s modern design, spacious layout, and top-tier sound system make it an ideal spot for large events. Concert-goers can enjoy an energetic atmosphere with plenty of room to dance and interact with the performers. Midway Music Hall is also well-known for its special events and themed nights, which bring a fun and engaging vibe to every show.
- Address: 6107 104 St NW, Edmonton, AB T6H 2K8
- Phone: (587) 635-0974
- Visit: Midway Music Hall
7. Yardbird Suite
Yardbird Suite is Edmonton’s most beloved jazz venue, offering a sophisticated and intimate space for jazz lovers since 1957. Known for its rich history, it has built a stellar reputation as one of Canada’s premier spots for live jazz performances. The venue is operated by the Edmonton Jazz Society, showcasing local talent as well as international artists, making it a must-visit for anyone passionate about jazz music.
The venue’s cozy setting creates a personal and up-close experience, perfect for enjoying the smooth sounds of jazz. With its relaxed atmosphere and dedication to high-quality performances, Yardbird Suite has become a cultural gem in the city. It frequently hosts a wide range of jazz styles, from traditional to contemporary, ensuring there’s always something new to enjoy.
- Address: 11 Tommy Banks Way NW, Edmonton, AB T6E 6P3
- Phone: (780) 432-0428
- Visit: Yardbird Suite
8. Winspear Centre
The Winspear Centre is Edmonton’s crown jewel for classical music, offering a world-class venue known for its exceptional acoustics. Home to the Edmonton Symphony Orchestra, this stunning venue has been delivering unforgettable performances since it opened in 1997. The Winspear Centre is designed to enhance every note, making it one of the best places to enjoy live music in the city.
Located in downtown Edmonton, the Winspear Centre hosts more than just classical concerts. It regularly features performances across a variety of genres, including jazz, pop, and contemporary music. Its state-of-the-art sound system and beautifully designed concert hall provide an unparalleled listening experience, making every concert feel truly special.
- Address: 4 Sir Winston Churchill Square, Edmonton, AB T5J 4X8
- Phone: (780) 428-1414
- Visit: Winspear Centre
On The Rocks
On The Rocks is a vibrant contemporary bar in Edmonton that’s popular for its great food, drinks, and regular live music. Located on Jasper Avenue, it’s the perfect spot for anyone looking for a lively night out. The bar features a modern setting where guests can enjoy a variety of elevated pub grub while listening to live bands that play a range of music genres.
The atmosphere at On The Rocks is always upbeat, making it a go-to destination for music enthusiasts and night-goers. With its commitment to providing top-notch entertainment and quality service, the venue ensures that every visit is memorable. The combination of delicious food, a wide selection of drinks, and fantastic live performances makes On The Rocks one of the best places to experience live music in Edmonton.
- Address: 11740 Jasper Ave, Edmonton, AB T5K 0N3
- Phone: (780) 482-4767
- Visit: On The Rocks
10. Spotlight Cabaret
Spotlight Cabaret stands out as a unique venue in Edmonton, offering a lively mix of dinner theatre, burlesque, drag, comedy, and live music, all set in a Roaring Twenties-themed space. This multi-purpose venue provides an eclectic array of entertainment that caters to a diverse audience, ensuring there’s always something exciting on the schedule.
Located on Whyte Avenue, a vibrant hub of nightlife in Edmonton, Spotlight Cabaret features a stunning rooftop patio that adds an extra layer of charm to its already captivating ambiance. The venue is known for its stylish decor and immersive atmosphere, making every evening an event to remember. Whether you’re there for a show or a casual night out, the blend of historical flair and modern entertainment makes Spotlight Cabaret a must-visit.
For those interested in a unique entertainment experience that combines history with contemporary culture, Spotlight Cabaret is an excellent choice.
- Address: 8217 104 St NW, Edmonton, AB T6E 4E7
- Phone: (780) 760-0202
- Visit: Spotlight Cabaret​
Conclusion on live music in Edmonton
Edmonton’s live music scene is as diverse and vibrant as the city itself. From the intimate jazz nights at Yardbird Suite to the lively country tunes at Cook County Saloon, there is something in Edmonton for every music enthusiast. Each venue brings its own unique flavour to the table, making the city a true haven for live music lovers.
As you explore Edmonton, you’ll discover places that showcase not only jazz and blues but also rock, pop, country, and everything in between. Venues like The Starlite Room and Union Hall regularly feature both local and international acts, offering a glimpse into the global music scene right here in the heart of Alberta.
