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50+ Years
experience
Experience Live Music at Nectars Bar and Lounge
Since 1975, Nectars Bar and Lounge has stood as a cornerstone of Burlington's vibrant music scene. Our venue has hosted thousands of performances ranging from emerging local artists to internationally renowned acts, cementing our reputation as the premier live music destination in downtown Burlington. Originally established as a savings and loan building, our space was transformed into the iconic Hi-Hat restaurant and lounge before becoming the legendary Nectars under Nectar Rorris' vision. The venue's historic chandelier and stage have witnessed the rise of groundbreaking musicians like Phish, whose early performances here helped shape their iconic status. Our commitment to quality extends beyond music, offering exceptional food service including our famous gravy fries and catering for private events.

With a capacity of 240 in both the main room and lounge, we provide intimate settings for unforgettable experiences. Our team combines decades of hospitality expertise with deep local knowledge to create memorable nights for every guest. We maintain rigorous standards for sound engineering and event production, ensuring optimal performance conditions for artists and audiences alike. As a fully licensed establishment, we serve premium beverages alongside our culinary offerings. Our dedication to community engagement and support for emerging talent continues to make Nectars a vital cultural hub in Vermont's capital city.
Services
Live Music Events Private Event Hosting Catering Services Bar & Lounge Merchandise Sales Talent Booking Event Planning Food Service Music Festivals Venue Rentals
Details
  • Year established: 1975
Highlights and features
  • We host over 300 live music events annually across multiple stages
  • Our venue has launched careers of internationally recognized artists
  • We offer full-service catering for events up to 240 guests
  • Our historic building combines modern amenities with original architectural features
  • We maintain strict sound quality standards for optimal performances
What people say
Legendary music venue Great atmosphere Historic charm Superb sound quality Iconic local landmark
Services
Live Music Events
Nectars hosts diverse musical performances nightly, featuring both emerging and established artists across genres. Our stage has launched careers of notable acts like Phish while maintaining intimate settings for authentic experiences. The venue's superior acoustics and historic ambiance create optimal conditions for live performances and audience engagement.
Private Event Hosting
Our two-story facility accommodates events up to 240 guests with customizable spaces. Full-service catering, professional sound equipment, and event coordination ensure successful celebrations. We host weddings, corporate events, and special occasions with flexible layout options and experienced staff support.
Catering Services
We provide Vermont-sourced cuisine for on-site and off-site events with menus tailored to client preferences. Our catering includes signature dishes like gravy fries alongside custom options. Fully licensed to serve alcohol at any Vermont location, we handle all food and beverage needs for private functions.
Talent Booking
Nectars Presents books artists for festivals, venues, and special events throughout Vermont and the Northeast. Our expertise connects organizers with appropriate acts while managing logistics and contracts. We support both local musicians and touring performers through comprehensive booking services.
Bar & Lounge
Our full-service bar offers premium cocktails, craft beers, and wines in a historic setting. The lounge provides comfortable seating for casual gatherings while maintaining connection to our live music programming. Beverage service complements our food offerings and event experiences.
Questions
What types of music events does Nectars host?
We feature diverse genres including rock, reggae, jazz, and electronic music with both local and touring artists performing nightly.
Can I book private events at Nectars?
Yes, our venue accommodates private functions up to 240 guests with customizable catering and event planning services available.
What are the age requirements for shows?
Midweek shows are 18+, weekend shows are 21+ unless otherwise noted in specific event details.
Do you offer catering outside the venue?
Yes, we provide off-site catering services for Vermont locations with full food and alcohol licensing.
What makes Nectars unique?
As Phish's original venue with historic architecture, we combine musical legacy with modern amenities for distinctive experiences.