George Street is the compact stretch of downtown St. John's where the city's pub life is concentrated, a few blocks of bars, lounges and live music venues that are famous across Canada. It is a lively place on most evenings, with fiddles, accordions, folk songs and rock bands spilling from open doors, and with a mix of locals, students and visitors. The street is closed to traffic at times, which turns it into an open-air social space, and the long summer evenings make it especially busy. A visit to a pub here is one of the classic things to do in St. John's, and it is a good place to try local beer and listen to Newfoundland music. Many bars offer a screech-in, a playful tradition in which visitors are made honorary Newfoundlanders, a ritual that usually involves a drink, a fish and a few words in local dialect.
What to do
Walk the street in the early evening to see what each pub is offering, then choose one with music you like. Most venues have live performers, with traditional Newfoundland and Irish music in some and rock or pop in others, and the atmosphere changes from room to room. Try a local beer, order something to eat, and ask the bartenders for suggestions, since people here are friendly and happy to share stories.
The screech-in is a popular ritual if you want a souvenir story, but it is optional and playful, so join in with good humour. Many places serve food, including fish and chips, seafood chowder and other local dishes.
Practical planning
The street is busiest on Thursday, Friday and Saturday nights, and quieter earlier in the week, so choose your night depending on whether you want crowds or conversation. Entry to most bars is free, though some charge a small cover for special events, and the legal drinking age is nineteen, so carry photo identification. The street can be loud, so if you are staying nearby, ask for a room away from it.
Pay attention to the weather, since the cobbles can be slippery in rain or ice, and drink responsibly, as the hills and stairs of downtown are a hazard after dark. Taxis are available nearby, and downtown hotels are within walking distance. A major street festival is held in the summer, so check dates if you want to be there for it.
Fitting it in
George Street works best at the end of a day of sightseeing, after dinner or as the evening begins. A food tour often ends nearby, which makes a natural way to continue the night. For a quieter evening, visit earlier, when the bars are less crowded and you can talk to staff, then leave before the late rush. If you do not drink, you can still enjoy the music and the street atmosphere, and many places serve non-alcoholic drinks and meals.
If you only have one night in the city, this is the place to spend it, and the songs you hear here are often the ones you will remember when you leave. Do not be shy about joining in a chorus if the room starts to sing, since the best nights on George Street are the ones where the line between performers and audience disappears, and the locals are usually delighted to teach a visitor the words.
What to expect
The experience
A free self-guided evening on a short street of pubs, with live music in most venues.
Best time
Evenings, especially Thursday to Saturday and long summer nights; quieter earlier in the week.
How long
Two to three hours, or as long as the music keeps you there.
Tips
Carry photo identification, expect crowds late on weekends, wear grippy shoes and book a downtown room away from the street if you want quiet.
Quick picks
- Best for
- Adults who want live music, local beer and a lively night out.
- Families
- A better fit for adults, though some venues serve food earlier in the evening.
- Couples
- A fun, social night with music and an easy walk back to a downtown hotel.
- Pair with
- The Newfoundland food tour, which finishes nearby.
- Time needed
- Two to three hours in the evening.
Good questions
What is George Street?+
It is a short downtown street packed with pubs and live music venues, and it is the centre of the city's nightlife.
What is a screech-in?+
It is a playful ritual in which visitors are made honorary Newfoundlanders, usually involving a drink and a few words in local dialect. It is optional, and many pubs offer it.
Is there an entry fee?+
Most venues are free to enter, though some charge a cover for special events. Carry photo identification, since the legal drinking age is nineteen.
When is it busiest?+
Thursday to Saturday nights, and long summer evenings, are the busiest. Earlier in the week it is quieter and easier to talk.
Is it suitable for families?+
It is geared to adults, and late evenings can be loud. Some pubs serve food earlier in the evening, which is more comfortable for families.
