Edmonton’s iconic Starlite Room celebrates 35 years

The Starlite Room held a block-party bash to celebrate 35 years of live music in Edmonton on May 17, 2025. (Galen McDougall/CTV News Edmonton)

Edmonton’s long-standing Starlite room celebrated 35 years on Saturday.

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The live music venue held a block party featuring a big name with strong ties to the Starlite stage.

“We have Corb Lund playing here tonight, who’s been one of the most notable artists to have started their career at the Starlite Room,” said co-owner Tyson Boyd.

Whitey Houston and Jr. Gone Wild also graced the outdoor stage on 102 Street, and Scenic Route to Alaska, another notable Edmonton band, plays Sunday. Tickets are available on the Starlite website.

Starting as The Bronx 35 years ago, the Starlite Room has since hosted decades of local talent and international acts -- including Nirvana (in 1991), Green Day (in 1992) and NOFX (in) 1994.

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Boyd said the live music business hasn’t always been easy, with people’s habits shifting over the past three decades – plus the added strain of COVID-19 pandemic restrictions and shut downs – but he feels the future remains bright for the Starlite.

“It’s always a little bit of a juggle and a little bit of a struggle,” he added. “But you know, we just remain optimistic and keep carrying on.”

The 100-year-old Old Citadel Building that houses the Starlite was put up for sale for $3.8 million in January.

At the time, Boyd said he hopes any buyer will act as a landlord to let the Starlite -- including Temple and River City Revival House -- live on as a live music venue.

With files from CTV News Edmonton’s Alex Antoneshyn and David Ewasuk