Opening in 1934, the Blue Moon Tavern has gone through many phases, including no longer legally being considered a tavern (we now serve liquor). Having been a beatnik haven, a biker bar, hippie hive, and a grunge era dive, the Blue Moon is now focusing on being a safe place for all of our neighbors.
From all varieties of music and comedy to local breweries and distilleries, we support our growing community the best we can while maintaining our old-Seattle vibe.
Buy a book from the store to learn more. Or just check these out!
Press
New PBS series features historic University District bar
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In American Portrait by PBS, everyday people share self-shot stories about their jobs and careers as they navigate the changes they’re experiencing and the goals they’re working toward.
“It’s a beautiful documentary series that is beautifully done, is there to remind people who America really is,” said Emma Hellthaler. The Seattleite was one of many featured in the PBS series, chronicling her efforts to keep the U District’s historic Blue Moon Tavern afloat amid the pandemic.
It’s an intimate look inside the ongoing crises music venues proprietors and bar owners across the country have been grappling with since the start of the pandemic. The four-part series is part of PBS’s 50th anniversary. The episode featuring Blue Moon Tavern aired Jan. 19. You can find the episode in the PBS App.
11 Places That Prove Old Seattle Is Alive and Well
The quintessential dive bar serves as home turf to Seattle's most alcohol-soaked celebrities. Writers and rock stars alike (see Tom Robbins ) made their permanent roost on a stool at the U-District tavern. Though it's had to fight through multiple development and destruction attempts, even losing a battle for landmark status, the Blue Moon stands strong, just like the “Hammered Man” spoof sculpture out front.
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