George Street
St. John’s Guide
The most pubs per capita in North America. Here is how to make the most of George Street.
George Street is St. John’s most celebrated street a pedestrian-only entertainment district renowned for having the most bars and pubs per capita in North America across just two city blocks. It is the cultural heart of St. John’s nightlife, alive with live music, traditional Newfoundland folk performances, and the warmth of outport hospitality transplanted into the capital city.
What to Expect on George Street
George Street runs for two blocks in the heart of downtown St. John’s. More than 20 pubs, bars, and live music venues line both sides of the street. In the evenings, particularly from Thursday to Sunday, the street fills with live music drifting from open doors traditional Newfoundland fiddle and accordion alongside contemporary artists. The atmosphere is welcoming, social, and genuinely festive.
George Street is in downtown St. John’s, walkable from most central accommodation. From the harbour waterfront on Water Street, walk uphill one block to Duckworth Street, then right to the George Street intersection. The street is pedestrian-only in the evenings.
The Screech-In on George Street
George Street is the most famous location for the Screech-in ceremony the traditional Newfoundland welcome that officially makes visitors honorary Newfoundlanders. Multiple pubs on George Street offer the ceremony on weekend evenings. A shot of Newfoundland Screech rum, a dialect recitation, and a certificate of honorary Newfoundland citizenship. Optional but enthusiastically recommended.
The George Street Festival
The George Street Festival, held annually in late July and early August, is one of the most popular music events in Atlantic Canada. It features diverse performers including local acts and nationally renowned musicians across rock, folk, country, and blues. The festival offers an open-air venue, food and beverage options including beer gardens and food vendors. It promotes a safe and inclusive environment with security measures in place. Accommodation in St. John’s books out during festival week book months ahead if visiting during this period.
Traditional Newfoundland folk music fiddle, accordion, guitar, and voice is one of the most distinctive and joyful musical traditions in Canada. George Street is the best place in the province to hear it performed live. Most pubs have live music Thursday through Sunday evenings in peak season.
Frequently Asked Questions
Visiting St. John’s?
See the complete city guide for Signal Hill, The Rooms, Quidi Vidi, and day trips.
St. John’s Guide