Before there was Park Street, there was Long Street. Just a few years ago, the major hub of Downtown nightlife revolved around a collection of bars and clubs located at 40 E. Long, and the focus was on weekend dance parties, electronic music and guest DJs from around the world. That atmosphere returns this weekend with the reopening of “The Long Street District” — which features the six originals venues including Fabric, Global and Long Street Live.
We recently spoke to club co-owner Mike Gallichio to find out what we can expect this weekend.
Q: First, can you tell us a little bit about your history with the Long Street Complex?
A: In 2000, Chris Corso and I bought the old Garage nightclub, which was a landmark in the Columbus nightlife scene for many years, and that really helped us when we re-opened it as Fabric. Fabric was a very nice, plush lounge/club and turned out to be very popular. We brought some great DJs through that space like Eric Morillo and Deep Dish. In 2003, we converted the space and opened up Long Street Live, which focused on a much broader market with six different rooms and environments. Columbus was more than ready for that kind of concept at that time.
Q: Eventually you turned your attention to Park Street with the former Spice Bar and Sugar Bar, and now Cantina, Patio, Saloon and Social. With the success of Park Street, what prompted the return to Long Street?
A: Park Street has been a huge success and has helped bring a lot of energy to the Arena District and Short North. Because of our success we are typically sold out on weekends and basically… we need more space. What was how the concept of re-opening Long Street came about. We think that with our aggressive style of marketing we can fill more bars in Columbus.
Q: So what type of events and music will be featured at Long Street?
A: All types of music… Top 40, Latin, Electro, Jazz, Soul & R&B, and Rock & Reggae.
Q: Will each of the bars at Long Street retain a separate theme?
A: Thursdays will focus on Electronic music… Electro, House and Dubstep. On Fridays and Saturdays, each room will have different styles of music and themes. We are also willing to do larger events. The entire space can be rented or anyone can rent out one of the 6 different rooms. The way we have the different bars partitioned off lends itself well to smaller groups and parties.
Q: What all is lined up for the grand opening this weekend?
A: The Grand Opening takes place on Friday, June 10th and Saturday, June 11th. Fridays will kick off our new college night “Rock Star Fridays”. Saturday will kick off our “Rotation” parties, featuring six different clubs and six different vibes.
More information can be found online at LongStreetDistrict.com.