London's Old East Village has long been a hub for eclectic and innovative artists. Discover this unique neighbourhood!
Head just east of London's downtown and you'll find Old East Village — or OEV, as the locals call it. Surrounded by a beautiful heritage neighbourhood, this cultural corner of the city is home to creative entrepreneurs and community organizers with a fierce passion for all things local.
Keep reading for a glimpse at what you'll find, Only in OEV!
Live Music Venues
One of OEV’s brightest gems is Aeolian Hall, a nationally recognized music venue praised for its acoustics and warm welcoming atmosphere. Located in the former London East town hall, the heritage building is a beautiful setting for classical, jazz, indie and tribute shows throughout the year.
Honey Dip is one of the most unique music venues in London! Located above Dough EV, a donut shop and community gathering space, this intimate venue plays host to punk, underground and indie artists, plus plenty of queer events. It speaks to the underground arts culture that has long thrived in Old East Village.
Heritage Lives on
OEV is also home to one of London’s only National Historic Sites: Banting House, the birthplace of insulin. Sir Frederick Banting lived here before making a discovery that would change the world. The house has since been transformed into a museum marking his life and career.
Just up the street, the Palace Theatre puts on high-quality community theatre productions where Londoners play a part. Another heritage building, the venue began as a silent movie theatre in 1929 and later operated as The Park Theatre. In 1991, it became the home of London Community Players and has been a pillar of the community ever since!
Take time to Play
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Old East Village is home to plenty of places to play. Start by spending a day at 100 Kellogg Lane. This former cereal factory has been reimagined as Canada’s largest entertainment complex.
Within, you can find The Factory (a massive family fun centre that includes trampolines, ziplines and arcades), the London Children's Museum, dining establishments and more. The building is also frequently home to events, seasonal markets and rotating exhibits.
Just a few blocks away, visit the Western Fair District for thrilling entertainment, including everything from live harness racing on their half-mile track to tournaments at the Sports Centre. There’s also the Western Fair itself, which draws thousands every September, and The Market at Western Fair District, which boasts two floors of food and artisan vendors every weekend.
Magical Mosaics
Combining thousands of handmade tiles into intricate designs, Clayworx: Ceramics Arts Learning Centre (formerly the London Clay Art Centre) has facilitated many projects throughout Old East Village. The first major project was a large mosaic with 3D elements on their building.
Another breathtaking installation, Hope, Love and Belonging, is located on Indwell's Embassy Commons building. It depicts the Thames River and blossoming Ontario wildflowers using 12,000 tiles across three panels. Watch for mosaic sidewalk tiles too as you stroll down Dundas Street.
For those looking to get their hands on some clay, Clayworx offers classes and workshops, from hand building to wheel throwing. Their retail shop is stocked with pieces from local artists, so you're sure to leave with a treasure or two.
To take in more public art in OEV, keep an eye out for the many murals found along the corridor. Explore London's interactive mural map here.
Good Eats
It’s a local secret that OEV is home to some of London’s tastiest dining options, with cuisines from many different cultures. From the generous portions at So Inviting Chinese Bakery and the classic Italian atmosphere of Tony's Famous Italian, to the cozy Polish kitchen at Unique Food Attitudes or the unmatched spring rolls at Vietnam Restaurant, your tastebuds can truly travel the world.
OEV also has its share of cozy coffee shops and chic cafes. For freshly baked delights and delicious drinks, stop by the artsy Artisan Bakery. Or head down the street for something heartier and discover trendy, tasty sandwiches at Renee's Sandwich Shop.
Explore more places to eat in Old East Village.
Craft beverages
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There's no better way to follow a good meal than a locally crafted beverage! Luckily, Old East Village is home to a huge share of London's brewmasters and craft beverage creators. Along the industrial edges of OEV, Anderson Craft Ales and London Brewing are renowned for their quality brews, creative flavours and events that keep their taprooms hopping.
Over at 100 Kellogg, find Powerhouse Brewing, Beer Kitchen and Paradigm Spirits, London's only distillery! Shop their retail outlet or sample their products on-site in cocktails at the Hard Rock Hotel's dining outlets.
Learn more about London's craft beverage scene.
Shop Local
Shopping in OEV is like stepping back to a time when main streets were your go-to for all things. Take a walk down Dundas and check out the long list of independent retailers who have called OEV home for decades.
If you’re looking to update your wardrobe, local favourites like Illbury + Goose are a must-stop, while vibrant shops like Grow & Bloom Co. add colour to your life. Check out coveted tattoo parlours, barber shops, a plethora of second-hand options and more.
With so much to see and do, there’s no time like the present to start exploring OEV! Learn more about the community and find upcoming events on the Old East Village Business Improvement Area's website.
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