Blog

Every spring, Vancouver’s streets come alive with the vibrant colors of the Flower Basket Program. This beloved tradition transforms our downtown into a lush and welcoming destination for locals and visitors alike. From Main Street to the Waterfront to Uptown Village, hundreds of hanging flower baskets brighten the city and bring a sense of pride to our community. The Flower Basket Program is entirely community funded, which means its success depends on the generosity of individuals and local businesses. Your donation directly supports the […]

The Slocum House, one of Vancouver’s most cherished historic landmarks, just got a brilliant upgrade, literally! Thanks to a partnership between Vancouver’s Downtown Association, Vancouver Farmers Market, Frontdoor Back, City of Vancouver, and Kaski Electric, this 19th-century gem glows with new life through a dynamic exterior lighting installation. Once the heart of a residential district in old Vancouver, the Slocum House is the last remaining building of its kind in the area. Built around 1867 by Charles and Laura Slocum, the home showcases a […]

Vancouver’s Downtown Association welcomed U.S. Senator Patty Murray for a tour of the transformative Main Street Promise project. Her visit highlighted the importance of partnership, vision, and the significant impact of federal investment in our community. Thanks to Senator Murray’s leadership and her efforts to secure funding through the American Rescue Plan Act, long-awaited reconstruction is finally underway. This investment is reshaping Main Street into a safer, more vibrant, and accessible corridor for everyone who lives, works, shops, and explores in the area. The […]

We’ve got big news to share! Vancouver’s Downtown Association is now an Accredited Main Street Program through Main Street America! This designation marks a major milestone in our journey to strengthen, preserve, and champion the heart of our city. Since 2005, VDA has been proudly affiliated with Main Street America through our “Designated” status with Washington Main Street. After years of dedication and steady growth, we’ve reached a new level of excellence with full national accreditation.  What does this mean for Downtown Vancouver? Being […]

The Vancouver Downtown Association (VDA) is thrilled to announce the newest additions to our Board of Directors! Please join us in giving a warm welcome to four dynamic leaders who bring a wealth of experience, creativity, and community spirit to the table: Erica Lindemann – Visit Vancouver USA Julie Rawls – Port of Vancouver Megan Arambul – Fieldwork Flowers Stephanie Clark – Vancouver Farmers Market Each of these individuals represents a key piece of the vibrant fabric that makes up downtown Vancouver. From tourism […]

This week, Vancouver byUS, the minds behind VanTalks, hosted the Community Innovation Lab—a two-day collaborative event designed to spark bold ideas and innovative solutions for revitalizing downtown Vancouver, WA. Sponsored by the Vancouver Downtown Association, the event brought together creatives, dreamers, and visionaries to rethink how our downtown spaces can be more vibrant, engaging, and reflective of our unique community. A Movement by US, for US The Community Innovation Lab wasn’t just about discussions—it was about action. Over March 11-12, we explored the question: […]

Since launching the Coffee Corner series, The Vancouver’s Downtown Association and The City of Vancouver partnered with Nutter Corporation & MacKay Sposito hosted six successful events! Each gathering brings together business owners, property owners, and downtown stakeholders to connect with the Main Street Promise project team, ask questions, and stay updated on the latest developments. Building Connections Over Coffee Each Coffee Corner has taken place at a different local coffee shop or gathering space, reinforcing our commitment to supporting small businesses while fostering meaningful conversations. […]

Vancouver’s Downtown Association (VDA) is committed to fostering a thriving downtown community by supporting local businesses. Through the Bricks & Clicks Grant Program, we provide resources that help downtown merchants and property owners invest in facade improvements and e-commerce initiatives—essential tools for business retention and beautification. Congratulations to Our 2025 Grant Recipients! We are proud to recognize three outstanding businesses that have received Bricks & Clicks grants this year: Center Stage Clothiers – Enhancing their business operations with a new point-of-sale system and fresh […]

Brewed Cafe & Pub has been a staple in downtown Vancouver, Washington for over a decade. Since opening its doors in 2012, Brewed has offered the perfect blend of coffee, beer, and delicious bites in a welcoming atmosphere. Whether you’re stopping by for a morning latte and breakfast sandwich or winding down with a cold brew and a laid-back lunch, Brewed has something for everyone, seven days a week. As downtown Vancouver undergoes significant improvements with the Main Street Promise Project, now is the […]

Looking for a new lunch spot? We just found it! Irrelevant Beer has officially opened its doors at 17th and Main in Downtown Vancouver, bringing their craft brews together with the mouthwatering smashburgers of Goon Burger. A huge congratulations to the team behind this exciting new addition to our community! Irrelevant Beer, a microbrewery specializing in West Coast IPAs, Hazy IPAs, and Lagers, launched on February 21st, 2025, and is already making waves with its stunning taproom and inviting atmosphere. But what truly sets […]

Golden Moment on Main Street: Honoring Local Businesses at the Main Street Promise Groundbreaking Main Street is the heart of our community, and today, we had the pleasure of celebrating the businesses that help make it shine! As part of the Main Street Promise groundbreaking celebration, we honored Kelsey and Jon Jennings of Ronald Records and Crystal Humble Larry of Eryngium Papeterie with special “golden” shovels, in recognition of their invaluable contributions to the event. The Main Street Promise is more than just a […]

From a beloved food stand at the Vancouver Farmers Market to a new home on Main Street, Husubis’ Poké Shop brings fresh island flavors to the heart of downtown. Specializing in authentic musubi, flavorful poké bowls, and delicious Hawaiian-inspired sides, they offer a taste of paradise with every bite. Whether you’re craving a quick snack or a satisfying meal, their menu is crafted with quality ingredients and a passion for bold, vibrant flavors. Visit them at 614 Main Street, Vancouver, WA, and experience the […]

After 45 wonderful years in Uptown Village, we bid farewell to a cornerstone of our community: Main Street Trader. As Karen and Joe prepare to embark on their next chapter, we’re reflecting on the incredible impact they’ve had on Vancouver. A Legacy of Giving Karen and Joe’s contributions go far beyond the walls of their shop. Their work with Friends of the Carpenters,  and their dedication as VDA Clean & Safe volunteers have made lasting impacts on the lives of many. They’ve exemplified what […]

Celebrating a Milestone: The Main Street Promise Groundbreaking Event On Friday, December 6, our community gathered at the Kiggins Block, 1011 Main Street, for a momentous occasion—the groundbreaking celebration for the Main Street Promise project. This event marked the official start of a transformative journey to revitalize and enhance our downtown area. A Vision Taking Shape The Main Street Promise project, made possible through collaborative efforts and careful planning, aims to create a more vibrant and welcoming downtown for residents, businesses, and visitors alike. […]

Winter in the Pacific Northwest can be magical, but let’s be honest: those dark, chilly evenings can feel a little daunting, especially for nighttime pedestrians. That’s why we’re thrilled to announce a major improvement to one of Vancouver’s key pedestrian corridors—W 7th Street is now brighter, safer, and more welcoming, thanks to new lighting upgrades spearheaded by the Vancouver Downtown Association (VDA). This project, made possible through a collaborative effort with Willamette Ventures, the City of Vancouver, and Frontdoor Back, highlights the power of […]

Have you ever wondered what future generations will think of the world we live in today? What artifacts, mementos, or treasures will help them understand the essence of our time and community? Now is your chance to play a part in preserving a piece of our story for those who will come after us. We’re thrilled to announce the Main Street Promise Time Capsule — a project aimed at capturing the spirit of our community to be unearthed a century from now. This unique […]

  Director Mike Fong Visits Downtown Vancouver to Connect with Small Business Owners We were thrilled to have Washington State Commerce Director, Mike Fong, visit downtown Vancouver today to meet with local small business owners and learn more about the vibrant businesses that make up our community. His visit was a fantastic opportunity for our small business community to connect with state leadership and discuss the challenges and opportunities they face in today’s ever-changing marketplace. A Day of Connecting with Local Businesses Director Fong’s […]

Our Community Mural Party Was a Huge Success! We’re excited to share that our community mural party was a resounding success, and it wouldn’t have been possible without the support of over 50 incredible volunteers! Together, we transformed a blank wall into a vibrant, stunning piece of art that will brighten Uptown Vancouver for years to come. This mural is not just a work of art; it’s a symbol of community collaboration, creativity, and the spirit of Vancouver. Thanks to the amazing energy and […]

We’re thrilled to welcome Ronald Records to their new location at 1005 Main Street, next to Kiggins Theatre! Originally founded in 2014 as an independent record label, Ronald Records has since grown into a beloved shop offering vinyl records, cassette tapes, CDs, books, and more. Their family-owned, vegan-powered business has been a key supporter of local music and artists, hosting live shows and connecting the community through their passion for music. Now in a larger, more accessible space, they’re ready to welcome even more customers and […]

From groundbreaking to ribbon cutting, the new ZoomInfo headquarters, developed by LPCWest in partnership with the Port of Vancouver USA is officially complete! Located at 330-360 Columbia Street, Vancouver, WA. This $530 million development spans two full city blocks and offers nearly 1.7 million sq ft of mixed-use space, supporting 4,000 new jobs right here in downtown. We invite you to visit the stunning public space at the heart of the building—open to all—with breathtaking views of the Columbia River, Waterfront, and Downtown. Vancouver, […]

The Vancouver’s Downtown Association is excited to introduce a Business Mentorship Program to support merchants leading up to the Main Street Promise infrastructure project. The Business Mentorship Program is designed to: • Provide expert guidance from VDA volunteers with extensive retail and restaurant industry experience. • Develop a tailored plan to boost sales during construction. • Enhance business resiliency and adaptability throughout the construction period. The Business Mentorship Program complements the VDA Bricks & Clicks Grant Program. Please reach out to [email protected] for additional […]

In collaboration with Fieldwork Flowers, Vancouver’s Downtown Association, Tieton Homes, and Divine Consign, we brought the city’s first rose parade float in three decades to life. Our float earned the prestigious Rose Festival Directors’ Award – Best Depiction of Volunteerism, showcasing the remarkable effort behind this achievement. With over 5,000 locally sourced flowers and clippings from across our community, our float paid homage to the original Rose Parade float concepts. We are excited to continue this tradition into the future—stay tuned to our website […]

Located at 1001 Main St, Short & Sweet a delightful haven where every craving finds its perfect match! A beloved bakery and cafe tantalize with a diverse array of indulgent delights. Embark on a flavor adventure with their newest product offering: freshly baked donuts! Featuring exciting varieties like maple bacon and matcha green tea. But the excitement doesn’t stop there – Short & Sweet also boasts a selection of boba tea offerings, from classic milk tea to exotic fruit-infused blends. Whether you’re in the […]

VDA is thrilled to unveil the Main Street Promise Block Captain Program, in collaboration with the City of Vancouver! Our dedicated Block Captains will serve as volunteer ambassadors for the Main Street Promise project, ensuring that residents, business/property owners, and visitors are well-informed and engaged. They’ll be sharing the latest project updates and gathering valuable feedback from their respective blocks. Last week, our Block Captains met for the first time at Short N’ Sweet, identifying tactics to best communicate with their block to ensure […]

The heart of downtown Vancouver, Washington welcomed a special guest today – Secretary Pete Buttigieg! Mayor Anne McEnerny-Ogle, Governor Jay Inslee, Governor Tina Kotek, City Manager Eric Holmes, and our partners including WSDOT, Interstate Bridge Replacement Program, OregonDot, C-TRAN, Port of Vancouver USA, and Vancouver’s Downtown Association joined hands in extending a warm welcome to Secretary Pete.  The highlight of the day? A tour of the iconic I-5 Bridge, offering insights into our transportation infrastructure and future developments. Secretary Pete also explored our vibrant downtown core and the Vancouver waterfront, soaking in the beauty […]

We’re thrilled to announce Waste Connections as the premiere corporate sponsor of our Clean & Safe Program, Spruce the Couve! Check out photos showcasing THIS week’s graffiti removal efforts (2/5/24)! Interested in volunteering? Visit www.vdausa.org/get-involved to learn more and sign up! Let’s make a positive difference together! Jan. 2024 Clean & Safe Report:  Total Solid Waste Removed: 1,365 lbs  Total Graffiti Removed: 622 tags  Total Biohazard Items Removed: 273  Landscaping Islands Tended to: 7 Thank you, Waste Connections, for joining us in enhancing the […]

We are thrilled to welcome Kindred Media Co., as a new brick & mortar business along our Main Street corridor! Vancouver Business Journal—Kindred Media Company founder Shay Smith knows marketing. He spent some time working in the corporate marketing game and often hired agencies for larger projects. After seeing various quirks in agency operations and a consistent lack of pizzazz in the content, he thought about what it would take to create an agency that could handle all marketing needs under one roof. When […]

Calling all Main Street Businesses from 5th to 15th Street! The Vancouver Downtown Association is thrilled to introduce the Bricks & Clicks Grant Program to support businesses leading up to the Main Street Promise infrastructure project. The Bricks & Clicks Grant Program is designed to: Boost the visibility of small businesses with additional signage. Beautify our downtown area by improving facades Empower businesses with resources for e-commerce development & marketing Support and retain our vibrant local businesses during Main Street reconstruction, starting Q2 2024. […]

RevitalizeWA 2023 was a resounding success! 🌟 This week, VDA had the privilege of hosting 350+ attendees, representing 72 Washington communities, and 8 states. Over the course of 3 exciting days, we gathered at 15 downtown venues to engage in 50 thought-provoking workshop sessions centered around economic development, placemaking, and preservation. Our downtown lit up to welcome these attendees, many of which were bustling at our local restaurants and retailers. We are thrilled to announce that this conference contributed over $204,000 in economic activity […]

Exciting News!  New Seasons Market is now officially OPEN! ⁣ Located at 16th & Main directly across from Clark County Historical Museum. After decades in the making, we’re thrilled to announce the grand opening of our new grocery store that bridges the gap between downtown and uptown. This marks a significant step towards improving the quality of life for our community and creating a healthier, more robust residential center. THE COLUMBIAN—Vancouver’s Downtown Association also believes the soon-to-open grocery store will be a boon for […]

VDA unveiled Volunteer Corner, an awe-inspiring 7-ft metal sculpture and a charming miniature public plaza, right at the heart of Vancouver – at the intersection of E Evergreen & Broadway. This remarkable project is a tribute to the boundless spirit of volunteerism that pulses through our city. It’s a celebration of the profound impact of Vancouver’s Downtown Association (VDA) and City of Vancouver volunteer networks. The new public plaza is more than just a beautiful addition to our cityscape; it’s a place to pause, reflect, […]

Step into a realm of grooming sophistication at Blind Tiger Barber Co., an urban sanctuary located at 111 W. 9thStreet. Under the visionary helm of owner Quincy Blanchette, this barber shop transcends mere haircuts to deliver an elevated experience. With a fusion of old-world charm and modern aesthetics, Blind Tiger Barber Co. boasts a skilled team that meticulously sculpts hair and refines beards, conjuring personalized works of art. The ambiance exudes a blend of vintage allure and contemporary vibes, creating an atmosphere where clients […]

Flight Form Fitness: Elevating Fitness to New Heights Elevate your fitness journey with Flight Form Fitness, located at 600 Washington Street. Vancouver’s premier destination, where innovation meets inclusivity. Helmed by Owner Diana Alcomendas, this dynamic haven offers a transformative experience for individuals of all fitness levels. Step into the future of fitness with cutting-edge Lagree and EVO2 training on state-of-the-art machines, meticulously designed to challenge and sculpt your body. Defy gravity and limitations through exhilarating AntiGravity classes, unlocking new dimensions of strength and flexibility.Whether […]

August 4-6 | Free and open to all ages, the Vancouver Arts & Music Festival invites you to enjoy three days of world-class music, art, dance, food and fun! Stages, pop-up galleries, family activities and food vendors will be available throughout downtown Vancouver and Esther Short Park. LEARN MORE: https://www.vancouverartsandmusicfestival.com SCHEDULE: https://vdausa.org/wp-content/uploads/363804793_761878042605876_8243029960930742850_n.pdf 

We are excited to announce the passage of Senate Bill 5336! This bill secures Vancouver’s place in the Washington Main Street Program, providing the framework and resources needed to support the critical work that we do. SB 5336 was passed unanimously by both the Senate and House, signed into law by Governor Jay Inslee on 4/14/23. “The passage of SB 5336, spearheaded by Sens. Cleveland, Mullet, Wilson, and the City of Vancouver, is a huge win for the economic prosperity of southwest Washington and […]

Vancouver Sign Co. celebrates 100 years of being in business! Founded in downtown Vancouver in 1923, VSC has been a staple in the community with major recognizable signs including: Kiggins Theatre, Dick Hannah being the largest sign in Vancouver, Burgerville on Fourth Plain, Steakburger, the first signs for both the Vancouver Chamber and The Columbian and so many more. VSC became innovators in the industry during the switch over from neon signs to LED. Changing to LED allowed customers to cut costs by two-thirds. […]

Presidential Cabinet Member, Isabella Guzman, Administrator of the U.S. Small Business Administration (SBA), Rep. Marie Gluesenkamp Pérez, and Mayor Anne McEnerny-Ogle, paid a special visit to VDA and downtown businesses last week! During this site visit, officials met one-on-one with our small business owners to identify their needs & challenges, in addition to connecting them with funding, counseling, training, contracting assistance, and more. A huge thank you to the SBA and our elected officials for this opportunity & their support of downtown Vancouver!

The Vancouver’s Downtown Association is thrilled to announce that Downtown Vancouver will be host site for RevitalizeWA 2023! RevitalizeWA is Washington’s annual statewide conference focused on the continued care of place through historic preservation, placemaking, and economic development. Save the date! October 4-6. Sign up for updates about registration, speaker and session proposals, and more: preservewa.org/news-events/revitalizewa Thank you to our conference partners: Washington Main Street, Washington Trust for Historic Preservation, Department of Archaeology and Historic Preservation.

Please give a warm welcome to Civilized Wolf, downtown’s leading dog groomer & pet supply store for all canines, kitties and critters in the Couve! Located at 575 W 8th St. “Wellness, safety, education and training are high priorities for the happiness and safety of all our guests. We are passionate about integrated health, built on exercise, nutrition, preventative care, and continued education and training. No breed discrimination here and we welcome all humans. We aim to serve our diverse community which includes a […]

Please give a WARM welcome to Pablo, VDA’s Clean & Safe Ambassador! Pablo provides regular litter pickup and graffiti removal throughout downtown. In the last 2 months alone, Pablo has removed 1,600 pounds of litter, 320 pounds of yard debris, and 500 tags (graffiti, stickers, flyers), in addition to filing code compliance requests for items outside of the public right-of-way. In addition to janitorial services, Pablo acts as an ambassador of downtown—being a friendly regular face along the Main Street corridor to direct visitors […]

Vancouver’s Downtown Association is proud to partner with Local Boy Tatau to bring a new annual event to Downtown Vancouver—The Great River Arts Festival (GRAF)! In August 2022, Over 15 new murals were added to the downtown core, from 5th – 15th Street. Watch the video below for a highlight of the event! The goal of GRAF is to strengthen unity through diversity by showcasing northwest and world-renowned artists. Curating and growing a visual multicultural historic arts district experience will build and enrich the […]

Many of us have had that moment in the car on the way home and remember, “Darn, I need pasta to go with the spaghetti sauce for dinner tonight!” On My Way (OMW) Uptown Market offers pantry essentials, craft beers, wines, deli case items and local specialties. OMW Uptown Market is conveniently located in the Arnada neighborhood at 207 E. Mcloughlin Blvd. Owners, Poppy and Will Kitchen, saw a need for a neighborhood market that sells necessities to, “round out your dinner, come in […]

The Columbian—Starting in 2024, the 10 southernmost blocks of Main Street in downtown Vancouver are going to be torn up and rebuilt into a better-looking and better-feeling corridor. Main Street’s face-lift has been in the works since 1993, just four years after Vancouver’s Downtown Association was created in 1989. The project was divided into two phases: one focused on its northern stretch, or Uptown Village, and the other focused on its southern portion. Uptown Village was successfully funded and constructed in 1996, yet the […]

PROJECT UPDATE—VDA is partnering with Divine Consign Furniture on a facade improvement project in celebration of their building’s 100th year anniversary! Located at 904 Main St. Swipe RIGHT for an SNEAK PEEK of the progress we made this week! In honor of this milestone, the building is receiving a fresh coat of paint and elements referencing its history in our downtown core. Stay tuned for more project updates! Effort in partnership with FrontdoorBack, Retail Design & Visual Merchandising, Clark County Historical Museum, Pat Jollota

Vancouver’s Downtown Association is proud to partner with Local Boy Tatau to bring the Great River Arts Festival (GRAF) to downtown Vancouver. 15 ARTISTS are currently painting 12+ MURALS to celebrate art, culture, history, and community throughout the downtown core, from 5th-11th Streets. Murals in progress from 8/28-10/10. MURAL ARTISTS & LOCATIONS 1) youcancallmebernie, 6th & Washington 2) sumnersigns, 6th & Broadway (adjacent to Vancouver sign) 3) artbyalexchiu, 6th & Main 4) kotelise, 6th & Washington 5) supermariopaints, 7th & Broadway 6) Manuel, 6th & Broadway 7) […]

Please give a warm welcome to Judd and Morgan of Bula Kava House, located at 610 Main Street! Bula Kava House offers a relaxing atmosphere with minimalist decor serving traditional kava drinks, fresh juice, smoothies, & acai bowls. Kava is a shrub grown throughout Oceania that produces a pleasant, calming feeling without the “hangover” effect of alcohol. Mental clarity is retained, with little chance of unwanted side effects. Traditionally, Kava is an integral part of religious and social traditions of island culture. Bula Kava […]

Northwest Personal Training is celebrating their 22 YEAR anniversary changing lives in Downtown Vancouver, WA! NW Personal Training offers the following services: private training, small group training, cardio training, muscle conditioning, flexibility & mobility conditioning, and nutrition planning. Services: https://nwpersonaltraining.com/services/ Promotions: https://nwpersonaltraining.com/promotions/ Classes: https://nwpersonaltraining.com/services/group-fitness-classes/   #dtvanwa

Vancouver’s Downtown Association partnered with Uptown Village Association  to restore and expand the district’s banner program! We have expanded Uptown Village’s banner program by 60%, spanning along Main St from 16th – 25th. This program helps to promote connectivity between our neighboring districts. The new designs feature Gingko trees, a species that is prevalent along Main St and in adjacent neighborhoods. Gingko trees feature a unique fan-shaped leaves that turn a stunning yellow color in the fall. Thank you to our local designer, Ana […]

Please give a warm welcome to Cedar Creek Hemp & Glass, located at 1010 Broadway St! Cedar Creek offers a diverse array of CBD, glass, and hemp-based products. Cedar Creek is currently closed due to roadway construction along the Broadway corrdior, and will reopen to the public in late June. Please be sure to swing by then and meet Nick!

LOVIN’ ON THE COUVE—Our spring cleanup was a wild success! Together, over 125 community members planted 1,400 flowers and removed over 18 yards of litter and weeds throughout downtown and uptown. THANK YOU to all that joined! THANK YOU TO OUR COMMUNITY PARTNERS! ⁣⁣ Vancouver, Washington City Government Columbia Credit Union Casey Evans Media⁣ Frontier Landscaping, Inc. Parks Foundation of Clark County Simply Sweets Hilton Vancouver Washington Waste Connections of Washington, Inc.

Check out our recent lighting improvements at 1014 Main Street! These improvements are responding to the need of improved lighting in pedestrian corridors throughout downtown—guided by feedback received from business owners and the public. This project is a part of our clean and safe initiative, Spruce the Couve. Graffiti removal, power washing, new trash cans, improved lighting, and community cleanups are all examples of tasks that are currently being completed under this program. Click here to learn more.  

Meet Faith, the owner of Kilnfolk, a new pottery studio located at 108 W 6th St! Kilnfolk offers clay classes and pottery painting, in addition to on-site childcare for children 5 and younger. LEARN MORE: https://www.kilnfolkclay.com Please give a warm welcome to Faith and her team! We are thrilled to have their creative business concept in our historic core.  

Bleu Door Bakery has fully reopened, with a beautiful expansion that is ready to welcome you! Join Bleu Door for breakfast, lunch, and brunch, in a beautiful French countryside atmosphere. Bleu Door wants to give a shoutout to all of the amazing women-owned businesses in the downtown area, and ALL women in business! As seen in the March 31 issue of The Columbian. 1709 Records Art At The Cave Aurora Gallery Be Well Juice Bar Cellar 55 Center Stage Clothiers, LLC C’est la vie […]

We have replaced every single litter receptacle along Main Street, from 6th-15th! In addition to a few new locations in Uptown. This effort is in response to feedback received by business owners and the public. Our new standard features graphics referencing Vancouver’s sense of place, Esther Short Park and Grant Street Pier, local fish species & canoe, along with a design specific to Uptown featuring native plants with the slogan “Keep Uptown Beautiful.”   This effort is a part of our “clean & safe” […]

VDA’s Flower Basket Program will return mid-may with 110 glorious baskets adding color and vibrancy from the Waterfront, to the Historic Core, and through Uptown Village. These baskets will showcase our community pride and resiliency as the public is welcomed back into downtown. WE NEED YOUR HELP—our beloved program relies purely on donations from individuals & businesses to make this effort possible. We appreciate any support, large & small! DONATE ONLINE: www.vdausa.org/flower-baskets CASH & CHECKS: Vancouver’s Downtown Association 811 Main Street Vancouver, WA 98660 […]

Check out our recent lighting improvements at E Evergreen & Main Street! Video below. These improvements are responding to the need of improved lighting in pedestrian corridors throughout downtown—guided by feedback received from business owners and the public. This project is a part of our clean and safe initiative, Spruce the Couve. Graffiti removal, power washing, new trash cans, improved lighting, and community cleanups are all examples of tasks that are currently being completed under this program. Spruce the Couve will improve the quality […]

CONGRATULATIONS to Dosalas Latin Kitchen, this year’s Ooh-Ahh! Award! The Ooh Ahh! Award—whether it’s the storefront activation, store design, or product offering, it makes you Ooh and Ahh! Dosalas Latin Kitchen creates an engaging, dynamic, and interactive dining adventure with Latin-inspired small-plate service and cocktails Over the last 11 years, the Van-Tastic Award Ceremony has been a celebration of our small businesses and Vancouver’s community-centric values. We encourage you to check out the full 8-minute program highlighting our downtown community, click here!  2021 was […]

CONGRATULATIONS to Hungry & Thirsty Sasquatch, the recipient of this year’s Believe and Achieve Award! The Believe and Achieve Award recognizes start-ups, expansions, and other small businesses growing in downtown. Hungry & Thirsty Sasquatch takes you back to the days of pinball, pizza slices and cocktails made with locally sourced ingredients. Over the last 11 years, the Van-Tastic Award Ceremony has been a celebration of our small businesses and Vancouver’s community-centric values. We encourage you to check out the full 8-minute program highlighting our […]

CONGRATULATIONS to Little Conejo, this year’s Taste Maker Award! The Taste Maker Award recognizes our community’s beloved food establishments. Little Conejo began as a hole in the wall taco joint and has now grown into a full-service restaurant with tacos, tortas, variety of made-from-scratch salsas and mezcal. Over the last 11 years, the Van-Tastic Award Ceremony has been a celebration of our small businesses and Vancouver’s community-centric values. We encourage you to check out the full 8-minute program highlighting our downtown community, click here!  […]

CONGRATULATIONS to Local Boy Tatau, this year’s HeART of Downtown Award! The HeArt of Downtown recognizes businesses who beautify our downtown community through art. Local Boy Tatau facilitated a collective of local artists to conceptualized and execute the mural project located at Broadway and 7th Street, along with other focal points in downtown. Over the last 11 years, the Van-Tastic Award Ceremony has been a celebration of our small businesses and Vancouver’s community-centric values. We encourage you to check out the full 8-minute program […]

CONGRATULATIONS to iQ Credit Union, this year’s Yellow Umbrella Award! The Yellow Umbrella Award recognizes community centric businesses. iQ Credit Union serves its member communities with straightforward financial services for every personal and family milestone Over the last 11 years, the Van-Tastic Award Ceremony has been a celebration of our small businesses and Vancouver’s community-centric values. We encourage you to check out the full 8-minute program highlighting our downtown community, click here!  2021 was a year full of recovery, expansion, and resilience. During this […]

Sponsored by Port of Vancouver USA, VDA’s Annual Meeting and Van-tastic Award Ceremony will be held virtually on our Facebook page on Friday, February 25th at 10AM. Don’t miss our year-in-review! The winners of the Van-tastic Awards in the following categories will be announced: Believe & Achieve Ohh-Ahh! Taste Maker Yellow Umbrella Award Carl Dobbs Commendation Outstanding Community Partner HeART of Downtown CLICK HERE TO VIEW NOMINEES

The City of Vancouver is expected to begin construction Feb. 14 on the second phase of the Broadway Corridor Improvement Project, a major project to replace aging utility infrastructure and repave Broadway from 6th Street to 13th Street. Completion is currently expected in summer 2022.   This project will: Improve efficiency, reliability and resiliency of utilities serving Broadway Street businesses by installing approximately 1,340 feet of new sanitary sewer main line and 1,600 feet of new water main line. Upgrade 18 existing curb ramps […]

Boasting over one-hundred and fifty 5-Star reviews, High Brow Social Club is “Vancouver’s Hidden Gem,” says Owner, Joe Brows. The salon prioritizes customized services and CVLTivated CRVTsmanship for every beautiful face. Having been in the beauty industry for more than 10 years, Joe has a passion for independent cult makeup brands and takes pride in carrying, “only cruelty free makeup supplies and American made products”. The salon is retail forward and also specializes in brows, lashes and makeup services. “We love our Youngblood mineral […]

Businesses throughout downtown have been busy decorating their storefronts to celebrate the new season! We encourage you to VISIT downtown and VOTE for your favorite holiday-themed storefront! Three winners will receive $250 courtesy of iQ Credit Union—this is a great way to show your support of our local businesses! PARTICIPATING LOCATIONS & VOTING: www.vdausa.org/storefrontcontest Votes must be received by December 28th, end of day. While you’re downtown, we also encourage you to shop local via our Holiday Gift Guide, available at the link above. […]

The rainy, fall season is upon us which calls for hot chocolate, a good book and a cozy armchair. All of which are within reach in our downtown core. Grab a drink to-go from Rosemary’s Café and head upstairs to Birdhouse Books to indulge in Written Into Reality: The Art of Co-Creating Your Dreams to Life. A book about what more there is to human creative potential, which can be discovered through the highest, truest levels of self-expression. Local author, Emma Bennett believes core […]

The Fall Cleanup was a success! A BIG thank you to the 70 volunteers that came out on 10/23 to help pick up litter and leaves throughout our downtown core. We weren’t kidding when we said RAIN or shine! Thank you to the City of Vancouver for their partnership on this effort. Photos captured by our video producer Casey Evans Media. This event is a part of our Spruce the Couve initiative which focuses on community cleanups, graffiti removal, power washing, new trash cans, […]

Tonsor the ancient word for barber and where services are more than “just a haircut”, rather a unique experience. Owner, Hanif Collins started cutting hair at the young age of 19 and now holds three master licenses. At Tonsor, “we have a system and methodology for training our employees” says, Collins. Based on level of experience, apron colors signify where the Barber is within their expertise and training. Green apron—Apprentice, Gold apron—Professional and Black apron—Master. “All of our barbers are employees of Tonsor versus […]

On Oct. 21, the Vancouver City Center Redevelopment Authority (CCRA) selected LPC West, the west coast arm of national real estate firm Lincoln Property Company, as the development team to move forward with planning and development of the Waterfront Gateway. The Waterfront Gateway is a 6.4-acre city-owned site connecting the downtown core and waterfront, which has emerged as a desirable destination for businesses, residents and visitors. The site is bounded by West Sixth (north), Columbia (east) and Grant (west) streets and the railroad berm […]

“Your greatest wealth comes from caring for the community,” says Karen Morrison, Executive Director for Odyssey World International (OWI). This nonprofit is based in Vancouver and offers compassionate C.A.R.E.—Community Outreach, Advocacy & Awareness, Resource & Referral and Education & Events. OWI advocates for social justice and provides services for marginalized community members impacted by poverty in Washington state and abroad. “The Heart of OWI are our volunteers,” Morrison states. Volunteers connect community members needing assistance to a variety of services through referral. For example: […]

“Be good at your job and have fun doing it!” is Harry’s Locksmith’s motto, says Michael Werbowski, Co-owner. Family owned and established in 1949, brothers Michael and Patrick Werbowski have grown the business organically. “We treat everyone like they are family,” says Werbowski. Michael had worked for the company for twenty years and later became Co-Owner. Located on Main Street, Harry’s Locksmith is a staple in the community that residents and businesses have come to know and trust. “People do business with people they […]

Check out our new mural on 7th Street, next door to Slow Fox Chili Parlor! SWIPE RIGHT to see the before and after! This mural activates a building that has been boarded up for approximately 40 years. VDA chose this project site to help promote connectivity between districts and to draw additional traffic to this blossoming block.⁣ Conceptualized by local artist Jane Degenhardt, “More Than Meets The Eye,” brings the observer out of the urban environment and into nature.⁣ ARTIST STATEMENT: “Wandering through the […]

Aurora Gallery represents over 60 local artists by displaying their one-of-a-kind pieces in the gallery. Elizabeth Steinbaugh, Owner, “Loves framing art for people because it offers unique looks for each different artist.” Framing services are a large part of Steinbaugh’s business offerings. With over two decades of experience, Steinbaugh and staff provide custom framing selection, assembly, and repair as well as optional delivery and installation. Having been in business in the downtown core for 18 years, Steinbaugh, “Appreciates being a part of this community. […]

Helping people reconnect with their own creativity is SheriAnn Spurlock’s purpose of owning MELT Glass Art Supply. “To see the pride and ownership of class attendees is so inspiring,” said Spurlock. The art supply store offers a diverse list of classes that cover a wide range of skill levels and techniques. In addition to classes, kiln and studio space rental is available along with a variety of glass-related products for purchase.⁣ Melt Glass Art Supply was originally started by Spurlock’s mom in Milwaukie, OR. […]

Bike Clark County promotes bicycle access, education, safety, and the enjoyment of cycling to the children and adults of SW Washington. The nonprofit organization’s efforts are all made possible through community partnerships and volunteers. The Community Hub Bike Shop is located at 1604 Main Street and is a full-service bicycle repair and retail shop. “Location! We love the location being downtown! It’s the perfect location for kids,” exclaimed Peter Van Tilburg, Vice President & Executive Director. Programs within the nonprofit include Bicycle Safety Courses, […]

Block 10, located at 8th & Washington, has officially topped off! Block 10 is the next premiere mixed-use project coming to Downtown Vancouver.  It will be Holland Partner Group’s headquarter office while also delivering urban apartments and unique retail spaces. Block 10 will provide the following amenities to the downtown core: Two distinct four-story towers above a two-story shared parking garage and first-floor retail space One tower will offer 79,000 square feet of office space The other tower will have 110 apartment units – […]

Sew Op and Maker Space founder, Anna Miller, wanted to use sewing workshops to stitch together a resourceful and connected community. Miller had spent four years creating a vision where she could sew with her friends, share skills and teach classes, learning and growing in her craft while helping others do the same. Being in the downtown core furthers the mission of community. The surrounding businesses are “cheerleaders for one another,” Miller commented. Miller’s favorite store offering is the Open Sew Fridays. Patrons get […]

Come home for breakfast and lunch. Rosemary Café transports you to experience the feeling of the 1940’s. The café décor and music set the stage of pulling up a chair at Grandma’s kitchen table to enjoy the best chicken salad around. ⁣ Co-Owner, Larry Pederson says, “The café embraces the past without living in the past.”⁣⁣ Having grown up in Vancouver since the age of 8, Pederson use to ride his bike to downtown Vancouver from his home near Hudson Bay High School. A […]

Vinnie’s Pizza is rich in family history—with Vinnie Jr. being first generation Sicilian from his father’s side, and the homegrown dough recipe created by his grandfather on his mother’s side. Family tradition and recipes made for the perfect mix to own and operate a pizza restaurant. “Vancouver provides community…people care for each other!” MENU: https://www.vinniespizzavancouver.com/ HOURS: Wed-Thu 11-8, Fri-Sat 11-9, Sun 12-8 LOCATION: 1000 Main St, Vancouver, WA #dtvanwa

Please give a warm welcome to Birdhouse Books! Located at 1001 Main Street, Birdhouse Books sells a wide array of bestsellers, classics, and vintage editions. Owners, Sarah and Lucas, are excited to be in our downtown core fulfilling the need for a book store. HOURS / LEARN MORE: https://birdhousebooks.store

Check out our recent lighting improvements at 9th & Main! These improvements are responding to the need of improved lighting in pedestrian corridors throughout downtown—guided by feedback received from business owners and the public. These improvements are a part of our clean and safe initiative, Spruce the Couve. Graffiti removal, power washing, new trash cans, improved lighting, and community clean-ups are all examples of tasks that are currently being completed under this program. Spruce the Couve will improve the quality of life of our […]

Lucky Loan Pawn Shop could be considered a business pioneer in Vancouver—open for sixty seven years in the downtown core, third generation family-owned establishment. Co-Owners, Jeff Lanford and Kelly Cloepfil have announced their decision to retire and officially close on August 31, 2021. “Vancouver has its own vibe now and the waterfront has been the most positive addition to downtown,” Lanford said. Co-Owners are very much looking forward to enjoying their free time during their retirement journey. Vancouver’s Downtown Association sincerely thanks Lucky Loan […]

VDA’s newest initiative, JumpStart Downtown is live! JumpStart Downtown is an e-commerce assistance program providing businesses located in the downtown core tailored services to improve their online presence. These services will help mitigate the negative impacts of COVID-19 and will ensure business resiliency post-pandemic. SERVICES OFFERED: Website Assistance E-commerce development Competitive analysis Content strategy Search engine optimization Local listings development Social Media Assistance Branding / marketing Content analysis Messaging analysis ELIGIBILITY: Business must have experienced negative impacts from COVID-19 Preference is given to low/moderate […]

Last month, we challenged our downtown businesses to gather a group of coworkers to take on a beautification project of their choosing in conjunction with our annual spring clean-up. Approximately 60 volunteers took on a variety of projects ranging from landscape beautification, mural installations, graffiti removal, litter pick-up, and power-washing. Seven wonderful projects were submitted for a chance to win a prize sponsored by Columbia Credit Union. In the end all teams won a prize, but two Grand Prize Winners – Gravitate and LSW […]

Over 70 hard working volunteers gathered 14.5 yards of debris & trash and planted 1,200 flowers in Esther Short Park for the Spruce the Couve downtown clean-up event on Saturday! THANK YOU to our dedicated volunteers and Frontier Landscaping for spending their Saturday enhancing our beautiful downtown as we welcome back the public. This was a collaborative effort between the Vancouver’s Downtown Association, City of Vancouver, and Parks Foundation of Clark County. Thank you to our video producer, Casey Evans Media, for capturing this […]

We are excited to announce that our Launchpad winner, Dandelion Teahouse Apothecary, will be opening on Saturday, May 22nd. Downtown Vancouver businesses provided monetary resources and in-kind services to make this business dream a reality. Check out today’s Columbian article highlighting Dandelion’s story & offerings! The Columbian—Launchpad winner Marianne Wilson Stein will open Dandelion Teahouse & Apothecary on Saturday, May 22nd, in downtown Vancouver. Stein won the $40,000 prize from Vancouver’s Downtown Association in August. Her teahouse concept was picked from a pool of over […]

Six Shooter was envisioned by 3 business partners that wanted to open a bar that reminded them of their small hometowns—a place with delicious food & drink, country rock, pinball, and pool.⁣ Located at 611 Main St, Six Shooter awaits you!⁣⁣ HOURS: Wed-Sun 4-12⁣⁣ HAPPY HOUR:⁣ Wed-Sun 4-6⁣⁣ MENU:⁣ https://www.sixshooterbar.com/menu

We are thrilled to announce that VDA’s parklet initiative was featured in the Urban Land Institute’s newest international publication, The Pandemic and the Public Realm. Vancouver was featured alongside 10 other cities including Paris, Melbourne, and Buenos Aires. This effort was a collaborative partnership between VDA, LSW Architects, Riff Creative, FrontdoorBack, and Vancouver, Washington City Government. Check out the publication here (download PDF for best viewing experience)

VDA’s annual report is available for viewing! In 2020, VDA kept downtown resilient by developing and executing programs to meet unexpected challenges, while also keeping downtown vibrant by continuing our legacy programs. Last year, our 40 committee volunteers contributed over 1,700 hours to work on initiatives to support our downtown community. CLICK HERE FOR ANNUAL REPORT

VDA is partnering with Office Moms & Dads to activate their new storefront on 8th & Main! Leveraging Seanette Corkill, owner of FrontdoorBack, and VDA Design Committee members, we are providing direct assistance to help them get their new space up and running. Stay tuned for updates! Office Moms & Dads partners with child welfare offices to provide a nurturing environment for children entering foster care. Learn more: www.officemomsanddads.com  

VDA’s Flower Basket Program will return mid-may with 95 glorious baskets adding color and vibrancy from 5th through Uptown Village. These baskets will showcase our community pride and resiliency as the public is welcomed back into downtown. WE NEED YOUR HELP—our beloved program relies purely on donations from individuals & businesses to make this effort possible. We appreciate any support, large & small! DONATE ONLINE: www.vdausa.org/flower-baskets CASH & CHECKS: Vancouver’s Downtown Association 811 Main Street Vancouver, WA 98660 Your donation is tax-deductible due to […]

We are in the process of installing new litter receptacles throughout our downtown core! This effort is in response to feedback received by business owners and the public. Our new standard features graphics referencing Vancouver’s sense of place, Esther Short Park and Grant Street Pier, more iterations to come. ⁣ ⁣Swipe right to see the old standard that we are replacing.⁣⁣ ⁣⁣This effort is a part of our new “clean & safe” initiative, Spruce the Couve, which focuses on lighting improvements, graffiti removal, power […]

The City of Vancouver supports businesses and employees during this difficult period. The city is working with economic development partners in Clark County, the Greater Portland region, Washington state, and at the federal level to provide important information to assist businesses and workers affected by the COVID-19 pandemic. To find the most up-to-date information regarding business and worker assistance, click here. 

WELCOME to the 2020 Vancouver’s Downtown Association Van-Tastic Awards Ceremony! 2020 was a year full of unprecedented challenges for our downtown community. During this time, our businesses worked relentlessly to pivot, adapt, and survive through the uncharted territory of a pandemic. Over the last 10 years, the Van-Tastic Award Ceremony has been a celebration of our small businesses and Vancouver’s community-centric values—thank you for attending and being a part of it! This year, the Van-Tastics was condensed into an engaging 8-minute video, available for […]

Check out our recent graffiti removal efforts on Main St! VDA recently launched a “clean & safe,” initiative, Spruce the Couve, which focuses on lighting improvements, graffiti removal, power washing, community cleanups, and new trash cans throughout the downtown core. This initiative will improve the quality of life of our residents, increase visitor traffic to our small businesses, and create an attractive employment center. Thank you, Casey Evans Media, for capturing this effort!

Come visit Daron, one of the many personal stylists at The Difference Clothing Boutique! Located at 110 E Evergreen Blvd in downtown Vancouver, The Difference exists as a place helping women look and feel their best every day. Through their personal, meaningful approach The Difference helps clients with the outward expression of their personal style. The outcome is confidence they can express – whether at work, for play, special occasions or when life changes. Shop local any time via appointment! LEARN MORE: https://www.thedifferencepdx.com #dtvanwa

Sponsored by Port of Vancouver USA, VDA’s Annual Meeting and Van-tastic Award Ceremony will be held virtually on our Facebook page at vdausa360 on Friday, February 19th at 10AM. ⁣⁣Don’t miss the recap of 2020!⁣ Learn about our 2021 initiatives which include Clean & Safe, Vancouver-made, e-commerce technical assistance, and others.⁣ The winners of the Van-tastic Awards in the following categories will be announced! ⁣Ohh-Ahh! Believe & Achieve⁣ Yellow Umbrella Award ⁣Carl Dobbs Commendation⁣ Corporate Supporter Recognition⁣ VIEW NOMINEES VEW EVENT #dtvanwa

Check out our recent lighting improvements at 9th & Main and 11th & Main! We recently launched a clean and safe initiative, Spruce the Couve, which focuses on lighting improvements, graffiti removal, power washing, and new trashcans throughout our downtown core. ⁣Spruce the Couve will be a legacy program moving forward for the VDA—these efforts will continue throughout 2021 and onward!⁣ Based on feedback received by business owners and the public, we identified areas for lighting improvements to enhance the perception of safety at […]

Noël Vancouver began with a vision to create a unique and magical Christmas experience in Downtown Vancouver. Due to the circumstances, however, Noël’s intended 2020 launch had to be postponed. Luckily, there is an active display at 9th & Main of what is to come! Noël 2021 will be full of Christmas market festivities including a wide array of vendor booths, traditional market treats and holiday-themed drinks, Christmas caroling, and so much more. Noël 2021 is sure to build holiday cheer and family traditions […]

We are excited to announce our final mural installation at 12th & Main in downtown Vancouver, WA! This art piece is located on the south-facing elevator tower wall of the Main Place parking garage. Jane Degenhardt (pictured right) and her copartner, Michele (pictured left), are local Vancouver artists. The mural is a panel installation of an art piece painted by Jane named Bramble. Artist Description: “The title “Bramble” refers to a blackberry bramble I photographed at close range and in the fall, when colors […]

Our bike racks have been installed at 12th & Main and 8th & Main! VDA partnered with students at Vancouver School of Arts and Academics on the design. The fish depict native species, and the mountain depicts Mt. Saint Helens pre-eruption. Due to a generous donation by First Pacific Financial, we will be installing an additional 10 throughout our downtown core. Keep your eye out for them! These bike racks are one component in a larger Main Street project which includes a large street mural […]

Please give a warm welcome to our newest business in downtown Vancouver, Lyon & Pearle! Located at 607 Washington Street, Lyon & Pearle is a clothing, toy and gift boutique for children and families.⁣ “At Lyon & Pearle, we’re all about growth, community and connection. We are here to help you love on kids; the future of our community.⁣ We have an inherent love for our community and so much love for children and fostering healthy growth. Our hope has long been to come […]

Outdoor Seating App— Looking for a place to patron safely during phased restrictions? VDA partnered with The City of Vancouver to create a live map of businesses with outdoor seating amenities! You are able to narrow down your search by business and seating type to meet your needs. Photos of each location are available as well. Click Here: Desktop App Click Here: Mobile App New Curbside Pickup Locations— The City of Vancouver has installed special curbside pickup signs on many blocks in Downtown Vancouver […]

Our Launchpad winner, Marianne Wilson Stein, is moving quickly to open her new space at 109 W 7th Street in downtown Vancouver. As most of you know, Launchpad was a regional shark-tank-style competition providing a $40,000 community-sponsored grant to a new business locating into our downtown community. Marianne will be opening Dandelion Teahouse & Apothecary, which will feature her specialty tea blends and skincare products. Her business will also host a makers space. Marianne has had great success at the Farmer’s Market and looks forward […]

Today we are featuring Kafiex Roasters – Coffee Lab! Located at 720 Esther Street in downtown Vancouver, Kafiex is a specialty coffee shop and roastery founded by Seidy and Matthew Selivanow. With emphasis on diverse coffee brewing methods Kafiex proudly offers certified organic and fair-trade coffee while empowering women and educating the public about the incredible journey of coffee from farm to cup. How did Kafiex begin?  “Kafiex is truly a product of our passion. Initially starting as a hobby, we visited farms across […]

We are excited to announce the completion of our new murals at 12th & Main! These murals have words of encouragement and reflection to touch on this moment in history. In addition, the trees on the pillars are in loving memory of Lee Coulthard, a VDA volunteer who led the effort to plant street trees in downtown. Additional mural components will continue to be added until the end of the year. These murals are a component in a larger Main Street project which includes […]

Vancouver’s Downtown Association is working hard to keep downtown vibrant. We are launching Spruce the Couve, a Clean and Safe Program. Graffiti removal, power washing, new trash cans, and improved lighting are all examples of tasks that will be completed under this initiative. This program is launching in November 2020 and will continue through 2021. Keep your eye on our social media pages & www.vdausa.org for updates! #dtvanwa

VISIT downtown Vancouver and VOTE for your favorite Harvest Moon Storefront. Three winners will receive $250 courtesy of the Vancouver’s Downtown Association—this is great way for your show support of our local businesses! CURRENT PARTICIPANTS: Angst Gallery Main Street Vintage Home Center Stage Clothiers, LLC Olson Engineering, Inc. My Jewelers Divine Consign Furniture Most Everything Vintage Doppelgänger House of Vintage – Vancouver Harry’s Locksmith Service MELT Glass Art Supply If you are a business in downtown that would like to join, please email [email protected] […]

Our street mural at 12th & Main is completed, we encourage you to come check it out! This mural is one component in a larger Main Street project which includes bike facilities, a new parklet, parking garage mural, and a smaller street mural at 8th & Main. ⁣ ⁣ Our project commenced this month, starting on the weekend of September 4th, 2020, and will continue through October 2020. Stay tuned for future updates, our videographer Casey Evans Media is working to capture this project. […]

The month of August marks Not Too Shabby’s 20th anniversary in downtown Vancouver! Located at 16th & Broadway, Not Too Shabby is a delightful locally owned boutique that carries gifts, décor, and women’s fashions. ⁣ ⁣ Owner, Reshell Douglas, aka Shabby Shelly, takes pride in treating all of her customers like friends. ⁣ ⁣ “I call it the girlfriend mentality, we want you to feel comfortable and have fun… under normal circumstances, hug if you’ve had a bad day—with the customer leaving with a […]

Downtown Vancouver is blooming thanks to our 2020 flower basket donors! These baskets showcase our community pride and resiliency during these challenging times. Our flower basket program is funded entirely from individual contributors—thank you to our community for keeping our downtown vibrant. This program would not have been possible without the following community supporters: Albina Fuel Alisa Tretrault Alistaire Clary Alling Henning Associates, Inc. Amy Sanchez Ann Bauer Anne John Studio Bowden Fine Art Brad Hutton Brenda & Alan Mitchell Brewed Public House Cascadia […]

Congratulations to our 2020 Launchpad WINNER—Marianne Wilson Stein! Marianne will be opening a Teahouse in downtown Vancouver that will feature her teas and skin care products. Her business will also host a makers space. Marianne has had great success at the Farmer’s Market and looks forward to opening a brick & mortar retail space. We will continue to follow this process and showcase it as she works to open shop! Please give a big WELCOME to our newest downtown small business owner, Marianne! Read […]

Today we are highlighting Little Italy’s Trattoria, a family-owned Italian restaurant with a lengthy menu heavy on classic favorites: pizza & pasta! Owners Jeff and Terese Boyer are celebrating their 25th year in downtown Vancouver—they are both grateful for their loyal customer base, long-time staff, and our community.⁣ What do you enjoy most about operating a restaurant in our downtown core?⁣ ⁣ “Over the years we have been fortunate enough to watch as parents bring in their children and as time passes watch those […]

Today we are celebrating our local Neapolitan-inspired pizza joint @​ nonavopizza!​ Located at 110 W 6th St in downtown Vancouver, Nonavo Pizza specializes in wood-fired pizza made with locally sourced ingredients. ⁣⁣ ⁣⁣ Owner, Joey Chmiko, has a philosophy centered on educating the customer, knowing your supplier, and making damn good pizza. ⁣⁣ ⁣⁣ ⁣ How has business changed during COVID?⁣⁣ “We are fortunate to be able to continue our practice in its most regular form, people come in and buy pizza and we […]

We are proud to announce the official debut of our pilot parklet program! Our program is a collaborative effort between the Vancouver’s Downtown Association, LSW Architects, Riff Creative, and FrontdoorBack, Retail Design & Visual Merchandising. Parklets are an urban planning technique in which street parking is turned into outdoor seating areas. Our pilot program was conceived as a creative solution to support our downtown eateries as we enter Phase 2 of reopening. In Phase 2, Vancouver restaurants, coffee shops, and bars are able to […]

We are excited to unveil a community-led effort to help beautify a vacant downtown storefront (Spanky’s at 9th & Main). The Vancouver’s Downtown Association partnered with Aurora Gallery, Burnt Bridge Cellars, and Vancouver School of Arts and Academics to make this effort possible. Next time you are visiting our beautiful downtown, be sure to check it out! The origami pieces were folded by Holly Williams, Madeleine Williams, Isabel Giacchino, Sophie Giacchino, Lisa Giacchino, Kristen Hull, and participants in the Sip & Fold at Burnt […]

Happy Friday, Vancouver! It is a beautiful day to walk downtown and grab some popcorn from @kigginstheatre​ —available today from 5PM-7PM, and Saturday from 11AM-1PM.⁣ ⁣ The Kiggins Theatre has been adapting and pivoting in unique ways during COVID. Dan Wyatt, owner of the Kiggins, has launched a virtual screening room to stream some of the latest hits from the comfort of your home: www.kigginstheatre.com/now-playing/. A great pairing for your popcorn this weekend!⁣ ⁣⁣ Kiggins has been using their marquee to project positivity onto […]

In honor of small business month, we are celebrating our local speakeasy ​@underbarvancouver​! Nestled in the basement of the Broadway Building at 1701 1⁄2 Broadway, UnderBar offers an intimate space paired with 14 Moscow Mule variations, classic old fashioned’s, and delicious but reasonably priced food. ⁣⁣ ⁣⁣ Owners Kurt & Kendra are celebrating UnderBar’s 2-year anniversary in the month of June. The idea for UnderBar was conceived when Kurt went to mail something one day and noticed an ad on the wall for storage […]

Alisa Powell Tetreault, owner of Most Everything Vintage, has pivoted her business model in unique ways to support our community during this challenging time. At the beginning of the COVID-19 pandemic, Alisa modified a vintage muumuu (an oversized house dress) into a crop top, a nurses cap, and several masks. Alisa put these items on Instagram and overnight it exploded into mask requests. Since then, Alisa has been hard at work making hundreds of face masks using leftover vintage fabric.⁣⁣⁣⁣⁣⁣⁣ Alisa misses being able […]

Leah Jackson, owner of ​@nichewinebar,​ has been hard at work adapting to our new normal. What does she miss most during this time…? — individual conversations as our sense of intimacy has to be redefined.⁣ “Talking to your customers through a car window, you can sense that they want to have a longer conversation but there is nothing that you can do about it…one of the reasons why I am keeping my door open is to maintain some sense of community and normalcy in […]

In honor of tomorrow’s First Friday Art Walk, we are featuring Art on the Boulevard! A project of Friends of the Arts, Art on the Boulevard is a non-profit art gallery whose mission is to establish a community environment in which the arts flourish. The work of over 50 Northwest artists allows the gallery to display a wide variety of media and styles. Kevin Weaver, gallery director, runs the gallery with the help of volunteers. Kevin has a deep love for Vancouver and is […]

This week we are featuring Celinda and Gina, owners of ​@salonmoxievancouverwa​ located at 1019 Main St in downtown Vancouver. On December 1st, it will be their 10-year anniversary on Main – stop by anytime during the month of December to enjoy treats, festive balloons and enter to win a basket full of wonderful products! Celinda & Gina go back over 30 years and went to beauty school together. They both love our downtown community. Celinda has been involved with the Vancouver’s Downtown Association for […]

Today we are featuring Sherri McMillan – owner of Northwest Personal Training! Sherri & her staff are celebrating their 20th year anniversary in downtown Vancouver. During this period, Northwest Personal Training has become a staple as a premier fitness studio in downtown. Sherri’s philosophy centers on educating her clients on a 360 approach that centers on a balanced fitness routine of muscle conditioning, cardio, and flexibility. Sherri has a deep sense of community pride and works to partner with nonprofits for the betterment of […]

A warm welcome to Bryttani and Courtney, owners of Believe Boutique! Located on 6th street in downtown Vancouver, Believe sells women’s clothing, accessories, and home goods. Bryttani and Courtney started Believe Boutique as an online store with occasional popups. Their first store opened in downtown Camas, and they recently moved to downtown Vancouver last spring. They both absolutely love Vancouver’s sense of community and have received great support and welcome from neighboring businesses, in traditional Vancouver fashion. The name Believe Boutique ties closely with […]

Meet Diana and Jim Kirkpatrick, owners of ​@centerstageclothiers!​ Located at 1400 Main Street, Center Stage Clothiers is Vancouver’s premier costume shop. The entire store is rentable, and Diana will put together an outfit to fit your unique needs for this Halloween season! Diana Kirkpatrick is a costume designer and seamstress who has worked as wardrobe and costume designer on eight independent feature films produced and filmed in the Portland/Vancouver area. She has also done costume design and sewing for local community theaters including Magenta […]

Meet Steve Valenta, owner of ​@mightybowl​! Mighty Bowl serves delicious bowls, burritos, salads, fresh juices, and whole food smoothies. – Steve started Mighty Bowl out of a food truck in 2012 after he overcame health issues by altering his diet to one that features foods like those served at Mighty Bowl. Steve founded Mighty Bowl as a vehicle to improve the health of our community, with the mission centered on improving access to healthy foods. – In 2017, Mighty Bowl opened a service window, […]