Venue Review: PNE Forum - A Hidden Gem for DJ Events in Vancouver

Overall Rating: 4/5

The PNE Forum, located in the heart of Vancouver, is a fantastic venue for DJ events, providing an energetic and immersive atmosphere. Recently, I had the chance to experience a stunning performance by Elderbrook, and I was blown away by the acoustics and vibe of the venue.

Accessibility: 4/5

PNE Forum is a great venue for concert-goers, featuring accessible entrances and parking. It’s located in the Hastings-Sunrise area, which is fairly convenient to reach by public transit, with several bus routes nearby. However, it’s not directly accessible via SkyTrain, which can make the venue a bit less convenient for some attendees relying on public transit. On-site parking is plentiful, though be aware that traffic can be tricky when multiple events are taking place at the PNE grounds. For guests with mobility challenges, the Forum provides accessible entrances and seating options. 

Amenities: 4/5

The Forum offers a variety of concessions, including non-alcoholic and alcoholic beverages such as beer and liquor. The venue operates on a cashless basis, accepting credit and debit cards for purchases. ​

Security & Safety: 5/5

PNE Forum boasts an excellent reputation for security, with staff that are both well-trained and approachable. Entry lines are efficiently managed, and security checks are thorough yet non-intrusive. Throughout events, security personnel are highly visible, creating a reassuring presence and ensuring a safe environment for all attendees. The venue’s location within the larger PNE fairgrounds adds to the sense of enclosure and safety, and the staff does an impressive job managing large crowds with ease.

Vibe: 4/5

PNE Forum offers a unique vibe that blends the venue's historic charm with the energetic atmosphere of modern-day events. The spacious layout and versatile design create an intimate yet lively setting, making it an excellent spot for EDM shows. While the venue’s acoustics and lighting are top-notch, there’s a slight sense of detachment from the crowd, which can sometimes limit the overall connection between the audience and the performance. Still, the energy from the attendees and the quality of the performances make it a memorable experience.

Acoustics: 4/5

PNE Forum’s acoustics are impressive, delivering clear, high-quality sound that enhances the overall concert experience. The venue is well-designed to ensure that the music reaches every corner, with minimal distortion. The sound system is well-tuned for live performances, and for EDM shows in particular, the bass hits with the right intensity without overwhelming the crowd. While the acoustics are excellent, some areas of the venue might experience slightly different sound qualities due to its layout, but overall, it offers a fantastic listening experience.

Crowd: 4.5/5

The crowd at PNE Forum is vibrant and engaged, adding to the high-energy atmosphere of the venue. The crowd is typically friendly and passionate about the music, making it a great spot for fans to connect. The diverse age range also ensures a welcoming environment for all types of concert-goers. However, like any larger venue, there can be moments where the crowd feels a bit spread out, but the overall energy remains strong.

Overall Rating: 4/5

PNE Forum is a standout venue in Vancouver for EDM events, offering a fantastic blend of history, modern amenities, and an exciting atmosphere. With its great acoustics, vibrant crowd, solid security, and overall positive vibe, it’s clear why the venue continues to attract top performances. While there are small areas for improvement, such as the layout potentially affecting the connection between the crowd and the stage, the Forum remains a top choice for an unforgettable concert experience. It’s a must-visit for anyone looking to enjoy live music in a unique and energetic setting.

Have you been to PNE Forum? Share your experience in the comments below!