By Michelle Reese
Live music has a way of making any night better. Whether you’re looking for a place to get on your feet and dance, or you just want some good tunes as the soundtrack to a night out, Montgomery County has something for everyone. We’ve put together a list of some of the area’s best, including those chosen as our 2019 Happening List Winner and Finalists.
Tom’s Bar & Grille – Happening List Winner for Live Music Venue
772 Walnut Street, Royersford
610-948-0809
Known by locals simply as “Tom’s,” this repeat Happening List Winner is one of the oldest businesses in Royersford. In addition to great bar food like wings, cheese steaks, burgers and ice cold beers, the family-owned favorite also offers pool tables, darts boards, and games. Plus, there’s a 24-hour car wash in the back! Come out for live music (no cover!) every Wednesday and Saturday night. Saturday night shows start at 9 p.m. and Wednesday’s acoustic nights start at 7:30 p.m. Follow Tom’s on Facebook for upcoming events.
Creekside Sports Bar – Happening List Finalist for Live Music Venue
765 N. Lewis Road, Royersford
610-495-6945
With live entertainment just about every Friday through Sunday, Creekside Sports Bar is always a fun weekend destination. In addition to local bands, look for events such as free poker, trivia, open mic and DJ Karaoke dance parties. Come out before the temperatures drop to enjoy music on the patio. Click here for the schedule of events.
Screwballs Sports Bar and Grille – Happening List Finalist for Live Music Venue
216 W. Beidler Road, King of Prussia
610-337-3888
Screwballs brings a great hometown flavor to an area that’s a bit overpopulated with chain restaurants. In addition to boasting 18 beers on tap, the menu is packed with flavorful versions of sports bar favorites like The “Chooch” Burger with jalapenos and Cheese Whiz, the “We Are Penn” Steak, and deep-fried “Piccolo’s” pickles. The family-friendly spot has karaoke on Thursdays and live entertainment practically every night. Be sure to check Facebook for the latest calendar of events.
Keswick Theater – Happening List Finalist for Live Music Venue
291 N. Keswick Avenue, Glenside
215-572-7650
No list for live music in the area would be complete without the Keswick Theatre. The Keswick was designed by architect Horace Trumbauer (who also created the Philadelphia Museum of Art), and is nationally recognized as the most comfortable, acoustically perfect listing room in the entire Philadelphia market. It’s said that there’s something for everyone at The Keswick. Check out upcoming events here.
Brittingham’s
640 East Germantown Pike, Lafayette Hill
484-344-5162
Brittingham’s is located in a building that has been in continuous use as a tavern, inn, dance hall, pub and restaurant since 1743. While it was renovated in 2013, plenty of the historical charm remains. You can enjoy live music every Friday and Saturday, with the first Friday of the month dedicated to the Philly based Irish folk band Paul Moore Band. Check out the calendar of entertainment here.
Blue Bell Inn
610 Skippack Pike, Blue Bell
215-515-5769
Did you know the Blue Bell was originally named Pigeontown? Yes, the town was renamed Blue Bell in 1840 because the Blue Bell Inn was so prominent in the area’s history. Today, the renovated building offers rustic charm and modern elegance … along with Sunday brunch, a lively happy hour, and live music throughout the week.
The Lucky Well
111 E. Butler Avenue, Ambler
215-646-4242
Lucky Well is the brainchild of Food Network Star and restauranteur Chad Rosenthal and Philly BBQ pioneer Chris McHugh. Come in for the Memphis-style ribs and brisket, and then stick around for the full-service whiskey bar and live blues lounge.
Ardmore Music Hall
23 East Lancaster Avenue, Ardmore
610-649-8389
The Ardmore Music Hall (formerly known as 23 East Cabaret and Brownies 23 East) has hosted artists such as The Dave Matthews Band, Phish, The Ramones, and The Hooters. Some of the standout features include a state-of-the-art sound system, plenty of dance space, optional seating, and a balcony viewing area for larger events. Here’s a list of upcoming performers coming the the venue.