After almost ten years, Edmonton will be welcoming two gay bars this coming summer.
Evolution Wonderlounge will launch a new site at the intersection of Jasper Avenue and 115 Street, as its downtown spot on 103 Street near 102 Avenue ceases operations.
We were compelled to look for alternatives, which led us to this location. So, we decided to pursue both options simultaneously until our lease expires, Evolution Wonderlounge Rob Browatzke, who co-owns the property, said to Global News.
The upcoming establishment will replace the Reign Premium Lounge & Kitchen, which has remained unoccupied since January.
Browatzki mentioned that he received a call from the property owner informing him that the location was now accessible. This fresh venue will be christened 'Evo,' bringing along various new prospects.
The Wîhkwêntôwin site will provide two levels dedicated to eating and gatherings.
Evo, located at the corner of Jasper Avenue and 115 Street, is set to take over the premises previously held by Reign Premium Lounge & Kitchen. It will provide diners with options across two levels for both meals and gatherings. Global News
Evo intends to start operations earlier compared to conventional nightclubs. This move aims to offer happy hour drinks, dinner options, and extend weeknight activities such as trivia nights, bingo evenings, and karaoke sessions.
Browatzke aims for a bigger customer base.
"What we've always dreamed of doing since our opening in 2013 was this. Initially, we operated seven days a week including happy hours, but it wasn’t successful as people preferred not to stay in the basement," Browatzke explained.
"The performances and shows linked to Evolution Wonderlounge will not transition to the new location until the current venue shuts down," he mentioned.
Evo, located at the intersection of Jasper Avenue and 115 Street, is set to take over the premises previously held by Reign Premium Lounge & Kitchen. It will feature two levels for both dining and hosting events. Dean Twardzik / Global News
The present Evolution area has faced vandalism several occasions.
On December 22, 2024, the police stated A person was recorded on security footage vandalizing the outside window of the 2SLGBTQ+ nightclub. , directly above a "Protect Trans Kids" poster.
The display window of Evolution Wonderlounge was vandalized in downtown Edmonton in December 2024. Credit: Evolution Wonderlounge
In April 2024, the police stated that three individuals took and damaged an item. Pride flag and tossed it into a neighboring trash bin.
From January through July 2023, the company experienced six distinct occurrences involving shattered glass and window issues.
Browatzke mentioned that the construction and crime in the neighborhood were becoming somewhat overwhelming.
Video: Vandalism Strikes Businesses in Downtown Edmonton
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Ron Byers, who directs Rainbow Story Hub, states that launching a queer bar on the ground floor marks a major achievement.
"They have mostly been located either in the basement or on the second floor. Only a small number were situated on the main level. This distribution partly stems from their desire to remain hidden," explained Byers.
Byers mentioned that the inaugural gay bar was established in 1970, barely nine months following the Canadian government’s decision to decriminalize homosexuality.
He mentioned that most LGBTQ+ venues functioned as private clubs needing membership similar to contemporary lifestyle clubs, making access to these establishments far more challenging.
Byers stated, "If you attempted to enter alone, they would essentially grill you at the entrance to decide whether you could come in or if you might pose a potential risk."
Video: WipeOut Drag Show entertains at Edmonton's Evolution Wonderlounge
Byers points out that despite increased acceptance of the 2SLGBTQ+ community, a specific space for this group remains essential, particularly for individuals who are grappling with their sexual identity.
"Regular bars and eateries are more welcoming to the LGBTQ+ community, yet there remains a demand. There are individuals who aren’t at ease being in the spotlight publicly and would rather be in settings surrounded by others similar to themselves," he stated.
Browatzke concurs, considering the present political atmosphere in Alberta, where the The provincial government enacted laws impacting transgender and gender-diverse young people. .
"The current political climate is moving in an anti-queer, anti-trans, and anti-drag direction, which makes venues like this even more significant. Initiatives at such a grassroots and visible level will likely be thrilling and captivating for the community," he stated.
Evolution has been operational for 12 years and has remained the sole gay bar functioning in Edmonton since 2016, when Buddy's Nightclub and Woody’s Video Bar Jasper Avenue at 117 Street has been shut down.
The central area spot isn't shutting down until October, allowing the town to enjoy having two LGBTQ+ establishments operating throughout the entire summer season.