The Roof: A Timeless Venue with a Storied Past

High above the city, perched on the 15^th floor of the Fairmont Hotel Vancouver, is a space that has shaped generations of memories: The Roof. With its panoramic skyline views and rich cultural legacy, this iconic venue has long been more than just a room, it’s a living piece of Vancouver’s history.

The Roof wasn’t just the hotel’s crown jewel, it was the cultural heartbeat of Vancouver. From the 1940’s through the 1960’s, it was the place to be seen in Vancouver, and where people dressed up to go out out. Men wore suits, women donned evening gowns, and everyone made their way to The Roof not just for the views, but for the music, the energy, and a place where special happens. Couples met and fell in love here. Anniversaries were toasted. Holidays were celebrated. It was a place to raise a glass for life’s moments, both big and small.

At the heart of The Roof’s magic was Dal Richards, Vancouver’s beloved “King of Swing”. For 25 years, Dal and his 11-piece Orchestra lit up the space with their music and infectious charm. These performances weren’t just local events, they were national broadcasts. Thanks to CBC, which had its studio right in the hotel, Dal’s broadcast made Canada swing from coast to coast. The Roof became more than just a venue, it was a national stage.

While times have changed, the legacy of The Roof remains. Today, it serves as a reminder of Vancouver’s vibrant past – a time when jazz and swing filled the air, and elegance defined the evening. The venue continues to host events, celebrations, and tributes that honour its incredible heritage.

One such tribute is Summer Swing, a one-night celebration reviving the glamour of The Roof’s golden days. It brings back the music, the décor, the refined cuisine, and most importantly, the spirit of a space that once defined a city’s cultural rhythm. Happening on June 20, 2025, Summer Swing is a not-to-be-missed event that blends the elegance of the past with the vibrant energy of today.