The Magic Rat: A Venue Like No Other
“Eclectic as it is refined, as unexpected as it is comfortable.”
I have a deep love for live music. I have an even deeper love for watching local bands perform live. However, there aren’t many opportunities for some of my favorite local artists to perform in my hometown, San Diego.
Most artists rely on performing at house shows if they want the chance to play their music in front of an audience. Although they can be fun, I want these artists to be able to experience the encouragement of local venues supporting their music careers, the thrill of performing in front of a wildly enthusiastic crowd, and an electric atmosphere.
Since moving to Fort Collins, I get to experience that type of local love and support from a wide variety of unique venues from the historical Mishawaka to the progressive Downtown Artery. This music loving town provides a platform of opportunities for local artists and bands to play for any audience in almost any desired environment.
The new bohemian style and experience driven venue, the Magic Rat, located in the heart of Old Town Fort Collins, is without a doubt one of the most unique venues in town. Their efforts to provide opportunities for artists in the Fort Collins area, as well as create a lively atmosphere to bring music enthusiasts together is what sets itself apart from the abundant other venues in town.
One thing the Magic Rat prides itself on bringing in different sounds each week, “from big-name artists, to local late-night jam sessions,” every Wednesday to Saturday night. Not only does the Magic Rat offer new sounds every week, they also provide free shows to the Northern Colorado music enthusiasts.
When asked why the Colorado native artist, Patrick Dethlefs, chose to perform at the Magic Rat, he explained that “I’ve played the Magic Rat once before and I love that they are able to support the musicians but are also able to offer free shows to the public.”
The support of local artists isn’t the only aspect of the venue’s charm that keeps artists like Patrick Dethlefs and the people of Fort Collins coming back for more.
Gold velvet couches, green brick accent walls, and a classic marquee sign paired with new electric sounds every week and a charismatic crowd. This doesn’t even begin to describe the atmosphere of wild night at the Magic Rat.
Laurel Bentley, who has been working at the Magic Rat for two and a half years as a bartender, has really enjoyed her time there. “I really like working here,” she explained. “ It’s a really fun atmosphere, people are always happy to be here and are always dancing and doing crazy stuff.”
The Magic Rat was recognized for having the best atmosphere among Fort Collins live music destinations in a recent article by The Group Inc.
This article distinguishes the most popular venues in the Fort Collins area by identifying each venues key features. The article characterizes the Magic Rat’s atmosphere as, “eclectic as it is refined, and as unexpected as it is comfortable.”
From the venue’s handcrafted furniture, elegant design, enthusiastic crowd, stellar staff members, and rockin’ artists, the Magic Rat is the best venue in Fort Collins at bringing together a community of music lovers.
