Gastown is Vancouver’s oldest neighbourhood, born out of a need for a spot to drink whiskey. Seriously. You know that statue of Gassy Jack…well, he hit shore right here with nothing but a barrel of booze. He convinced local labourers to build him a bar in exchange for it and one day later, they were sipping whisky. One day people. 

Fast forward 149 years and I’m pretty sure that the right bartender could still work the same deal. Cocktails are a big part of the area’s identity, but there’s a lot more going on within these twelve city blocks – starting with that morning cup of joe.

This blog allows us to tell stories about the incredible people who make Gastown what it is. They work on Star Wars, get named to Forbes lists, honour tradition and break with it. They’re game changers. And so, I’m challenging you to get into Gastown today (or tomorrow, I know you all have lives…) and uncover every amazing story. 

We’ll be doing the same. This month you can expect to hear more about a couple of inspiring entrepreneurs who are making their mark on the international scene, and as buzz ramps up for fashion weeks in New York, London, Milan & Paris, we’ll have the latest from those in Gastown who know the industry best. Who says January has to be boring.

If there’s something you’ve always wanted to ask or a local personality who fascinates you, let us know. Maybe we’ll write a story about it. Send us a message on Facebook, tag us in a pic on Instagram or tweet us. It’s that simple.

Happy New Year, everyone. It’s going to be a good one!