The “Live Music Capital of the World” is sending a popular venue to well, Valhalla. A beloved punk rock music venue is shutting its doors after 17 years in the Capital City. Valhalla Tavern announced on social media on Sunday, August 30 that it will be closing in downtown Austin this fall.
The venue’s owner, Seth Levy, said the building that houses Valhalla at 710 Red River St., was sold to new owners who will be terminating their lease in 60 days. Valhalla’s last day of operation will be October 26, but Levy hopes to possibly stay open until Halloween.
“It’s hard to write one’s own obituary, but in this rare case I have that opportunity,” Levy wrote in part on Instagram. “We’d love to see all our friends with the 59 days we have left and I have some days left open for shows, so hit me up.”
Levy helped open Valhalla in November 2009. The dive bar is known for being a gathering space for punk, metal and alternative fans to enjoy music from local bands and artists. Over nearly 17 years, the tiny Red River venue hosted generations of Austin punk and metal bands alongside touring acts including Peelander-Z, Gustaf and British post-punk band The Blinders.
“For the last 30 plus years I’ve had the best seat in Austin for local, national and international bands,” Levy said. “This scene can be magical. The local talent is and has been some of the best and literally the soundtrack of most of my life.”
Dozens of Austinites were heartbroken to hear about Valhalla closing with many local musicians sharing their own stories at the bar online. Reddit user, JonnyTFunk said he’s ‘devastated’ and will be playing one of Valhalla’s final shows on October 16 with his band.
Another user, TraceWaBass, who used to perform there with his band, Hollow Skulls wrote online, “F****** crushed. My bands played there probably more than any other venue. Seth is a great dude, and it’s such a great vibe.”
Redditor, dacydergoth, echoed that sentiment commenting that Valhalla is, “One of the best and friendliest bars in Austin.” Levy concluded his post by inviting the Austin community to stop by the bar in the next two months to say goodbye.
“So, 59 days, I’m sure I’ll shed my fair share of tears in the coming days as I see so many dear friends and regulars and reflect on past times but we’ve got 59 days to make a few more memories,” Levy said. “The stories that are in the walls of 710 red river are my stories and your stories. I’ll miss them.”
MySA reached out to Valhalla Tavern for comment.