The Club Room: Fort Garry Hotel’s Live Entertainment Venue
The Fort Garry Hotel is one of Winnipeg’s most iconic landmarks, steeped in a rich and storied history. While many guests are drawn to its grand architecture and luxurious amenities, the Club Room stands out as a space that captures the spirit of Winnipeg’s downtown nightlife. Over the decades, this room has borne witness to significant moments in Winnipeg’s culture, from elegant social gatherings to performances by renowned artists. Today, the Club Room is not just a place to unwind; this windowless underbelly of the hotel has a vibe that feels more like Chicago or Montreal at times than Winnipeg.
The Famous Fire of 1971
The history of the Club Room is intertwined with some of the most dramatic events in the Fort Garry Hotel’s past. One such event was the fire that broke out in November 1971 on the 7th floor. The blaze required over 50 firefighters to bring it under control, and the hotel sustained widespread damage but surprisingly not from the fire which is a testament to the fireproof construction of the hotel, however, extensive water damage would initiate a series of cosmetic changes throughout the hotel, including the transformation of some of its most iconic spaces.
It was during this period of repair that the Palm Room on the main floor was converted into the Drummer Boy Lounge, and the former Jade Room became The Factor’s Table, a separate fine dining establishment within the hotel, and the lower level of the hotel was transformed into the Left Bank, a Bohemian-style café and nightclub. These changes marked a new chapter in the hotel’s history, as it entered its twilight era of social and cultural activity in Winnipeg.
The Club Room’s Entertainment Era
As the decades passed, the Fort Garry Hotel continued to evolve, with the Club Room becoming a spot for entertainment in the city. The room’s loungey setting and sophisticated charm made it an ideal venue for a range of events, including performances by some of the city’s most beloved entertainers.
Music concerts like the CBC-Winnipeg Orchestra’s Candlelight Series added to the room’s attractive atmosphere, making it a cherished part of Winnipeg’s cultural scene.
A Bright Future for the Club Room
One of the most significant contributions to the Club Room to date is its connection to Yuk Yuk’s Winnipeg, a comedy club that has become synonymous with top-notch stand-up comedy talent. Since 2022, Yuk Yuk’s has brought laughter to the Club Room, hosting performances by both local and international comedians.
In addition to comedy, the Club Room has also been a venue for Jazz Winnipeg to promote jazz music in the city. The room’s acoustics and intimate setting make it a perfect space for jazz performances, offering an up-close-and-personal jazz experience. Over the years, the Club Room has hosted several concerts as part of its partnership with Jazz Winnipeg featuring both local talent and some internationally renowned artists.
The Club Room at the Fort Garry Hotel remains a beloved space that honours the hotel’s past while continuing to serve as a venue for new and exciting entertainment experiences. Whether you’re attending a Yuk Yuk’s comedy show or enjoying a jazz performance, the Club Room offers an atmosphere that is both timeless and historical. As the Fort Garry Hotel continues to evolve, the Club Room will undoubtedly remain a key part of its legacy, for many generations to come.
