The Stores: A Night of Victory Lap and Throwbacks

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On June 5th, 2026…

On June 5th, Victory Lap took over The Stores for a late-night celebration of UK Garage and the music from world-renowned DJ Fred again.

All images by Olivia Yu (@ypxphoto)

The idea of the event was simple: no phones, no posing, dance. This is a rarity in today’s nightlife, and surprisingly, was a promise that reflected reality. The Store was a place where the music was central, not just somewhere to take pictures.

Running from 10 PM to 3 AM, The Stores delivered exactly what it promised. Throughout the night, attendees packed the dance floor, creating an atmosphere that felt reminiscent of an old-school nightclub. The setlist blended some of the biggest tracks from Fred again with classic and modern UKG selections, keeping the crowd moving well into the early hours of the morning.

The scene was set by resident DJ Bellz, whose set focused on the electronic, bass-driven sounds that have helped bring UK Garage back into the spotlight over the past several years. Through a mix of Fred again, crowd favourites, and jaw-dropping transitions, Bellz maintained the energy throughout the night while giving attendees a taste of the genre's roots and evolution.

The venue that the event took place at is a relatively new addition to Vancouver’s nightlife scene located at 678 Nelson Street in the heart of downtown. The venue was created with a focus on live events, nightlife, and community-driven experiences, featuring a central downtown location alongside a dedicated sound and lighting system designed specifically for high-energy events.

Interestingly, the location itself has long been part of Vancouver’s entertainment district. Before becoming The Stores, the space was home to the Shamrock Storehouse, a popular downtown pub and gathering spot known for live music, sports viewing, and its presence in Granville’s nightlife corridor.

That history added an extra layer to the evening, as a venue that has hosted countless nights out for Vancouverites once again became a place for music and community.

One of Victory Lap’s biggest strengths was its accessibility. With tickets starting at just $10, the event attracted a diverse crowd of students, young professionals, and longtime electronic music enthusiasts, all united by a shared appreciation for UK-inspired dance music.

As Vancouver continues to embrace more niche electronic music communities, events like Victory Lap at The Stores highlight the growing demand for curated music experiences that prioritize atmosphere, discovery, and genuine connection over spectacle.

For one night, the focus wasn't on what was posted afterward - it was about being present in the moment. Singing, dancing, and having a good time without a care in the world. Judging by the packed dance floor and the energy inside the venue, Victory Lap accomplished exactly that.

Vancouver Vibes Scorecard

🏟️ Venue: 9/10

⚡ Energy: 10/10

🔊 Sound Quality: 10/10

👟 Crowd Style: 8/10

📸 Photo Ops: 10/10

🌈 Overall Vibe: 9.5/10

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