St. James Community Square has served as a place for connection, creativity and community life in Kitsilano for more than 90 years. Located on West 10th Avenue, this neighbourhood landmark brings people together through cultural events, recreational activities, educational programs and accessible rental spaces.
A Community Space with a Long History
St. James Community Square is a registered non-profit and charitable organization dedicated to providing affordable space for local groups, artists, educators, families and community members.
When the building was placed up for sale, community members rallied to protect it. The City of Vancouver later purchased the property and established a long-term lease with the St. James Community Square Society, helping preserve the building as an important neighbourhood resource. Today, the facility welcomes more than 500,000 visits each year.
Programs for All Ages and Interests
There is almost always something happening at The Square.
The building hosts a changing mix of cultural, social, educational and recreational programming, including:
- Music classes, rehearsals and performances
- Dance, yoga, martial arts and movement programs
- Art classes and creative workshops
- Children’s camps and after-school activities
- Community choirs and orchestras
- Meetings, celebrations and social gatherings
Current programs range from family music classes and youth symphonies to Wing Chun, art instruction, contra dancing and adult chamber orchestra opportunities. Program schedules and availability may change, so visitors should check directly with each organizer before attending.
Flexible Rental Spaces in Kitsilano
St. James Community Square also offers several rooms for public rental, from the large performance hall to smaller multi-purpose spaces.
Rooms can support workshops, meetings, classes, presentations, performances, private celebrations and community programs. Many include practical features such as Wi-Fi, outlets, whiteboards and flexible floor plans.
As a community-focused organization, St James aims to keep its rental options comparatively affordable while accommodating a wide range of uses.
Home to the Mel Lehan Hall
One of the building’s best-known spaces is the Mel Lehan Hall, a former church sanctuary that is more than a century old.
The hall retains its vaulted ceilings and historic character while offering an updated stage and oak-sprung dance floor. Its acoustics and flexible layout make it a popular setting for concerts, theatre productions, rehearsals, dances, exhibitions, markets, weddings, memorials and community celebrations.
A Place to Connect in Kits
Community spaces play an important role in creating a neighbourhood where people can meet, learn and share experiences.
At St. James Community Square, that might mean attending your first dance class, watching a local performance, joining a choir, bringing your child to a program or organizing an event of your own. The building continues to evolve alongside the community while remaining focused on inclusion, accessibility and connection.
Visit St. James Community Square
Address: 3214 West 10th Avenue, Vancouver
Phone: 604-739-9373
Website: St. James Community Square
Visit St James’s website to explore current programs, upcoming events, rental spaces and ways to support this long-standing Kitsilano community hub.