Events at The Pot Belly , Belconnen

Name: The Pot Belly
Address: Australia
Telephone: +61 2 6251 4530

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Headz are Rolling pres. Coco Bryce (NL)

10:00pm, Sat, 09 Nov 2019

Nov

The Pot Belly

Belconnen

Headz are Rolling pres. Royalston [Hospital Records]

10:00pm, Fri, 14 Jun 2019

Jun

The Pot Belly

Belconnen

Headz are Rolling present: Compa (Deep Medi, UK)

10:00pm, Sat, 20 Oct 2018

Oct

The Pot Belly

Belconnen

Headz are Rolling present: Ricky Force (Ireland)

1:24am, Sat, 18 Aug 2018

Aug

The Pot Belly

Belconnen

Headz Are Rolling present: DJINN (uk)

10:00pm, Sat, 19 May 2018

May

The Pot Belly

Belconnen

About The Pot Belly

The Pot Belly is a local pub, bar and live-music venue tucked into Belconnen’s town centre. A time capsule of ’70s Canberra nightlife, it’s known as “the last one standing on Sesame Street” – Belconnen’s own version of a party strip . In operation since the mid-1970s (it turned 50 around 2025 ), the Pot Belly is Canberra’s second-oldest hostelry. Its decor stays true to those roots: dark timber walls, a wooden bar carved with a distinctive pregnant-woman motif (a quirky throwback to early warnings against drinking while pregnant ), and retro touches like a corner jukebox and lounge seating by a crackling fireplace . With a moderate capacity (roughly 80–100 patrons) and a mix of bar stools, couches and standing room, it feels like a cosy, friendly local. Owner-operators have kept that intimate, “boutique pub” vibe even as they modernised the drink offering. Today the Pot Belly is celebrated for its craft-beer focus (including house-brewed ales and in-house distilled spirits) and community spirit. It’s a favourite watering hole for uni students and Belco residents alike – a relaxed place to grab a pint brewed on-site, chat with mates, and soak in the history that makes this venue so beloved .

Events and Programming

Live music and events practically define the Pot Belly’s calendar. From blues-rock and country to comedy and cabaret, almost every Friday and Saturday night something is on. In recent years the lineup has been eclectic: local bands and touring acts (punk, metal, indie and roots) play regular “covers band” nights, album launches or collaborative gigs . There’s an old-school open-mic session (often a Thursday night residency, sign-ups by 7:15pm ) where emerging songwriters and poets get stage time. A monthly highlight is “Hot Pot Burlesque” – a variety burlesque revue hosted at the bar – with entry around $25 a ticket . The venue also joins festivals: for example, in late 2025 Canberra’s fringe circuit booked three “Bush Fringes” shows (comedy and music) in the Pot Belly’s indoor and outdoor areas . Typical touring bands on Songkick show there in summer (e.g. rock group “Rodenticide” and singer Joe Conroy in July 2025 ). Cover charges vary by event – local band nights often split a modest door fee (all cover goes directly to performers ), while comedy or festival nights have advance tickets on TryBooking or StickyTickets. In short, there’s almost always something happening at the Pot Belly – from low-key acoustic jams to full-scale rock nights – so best to check its social feeds or “What’s On” page to see who’s playing this week.

Tickets and Booking

Pot Belly shows are mostly “pay at the door.” For free-ranging pub gigs you can usually just turn up and pay the cover charge on the spot (typically $10–15). If a night is curated (like burlesque, comedy or fringe shows), tickets are often sold online. For instance, Hot Pot Burlesque editions sell $25 tickets on TryBooking with early-birds available . Similarly, Canberra Fringe events hosted here use external ticketing (Sticky) by category and time . There’s no formal box office at the venue, so follow local listings, the Pot Belly’s Facebook/Instagram or ticketing sites for event-specific booking links. Signing up to the venue’s mailing list or local canberra gig calendars is a good strategy for popular shows. As soon as a gig is announced, tickets go on sale (some limited early-bird discounts exist). Otherwise, just arrive about 15–30 minutes before tipoff to secure front-row space – the little bar often fills up quickly on busy nights . Most music nights have tables and bar service but seating is general admission, so early arrival is best for prime spots. Finally, carry some cash just in case – many bands take cash door sales even though the venue accepts cards behind the bar.

Seating and Layout

The Pot Belly’s floorplan is intimate and unpretentious. Breakfast Times like a small pub: a central bar runs lengthwise down the room, with seating and standing room around it. The stage is set against the back wall, so the main audience area is in front of the bar. Most people mill about here or around scattered high-top tables. There is no formal tiering or reserved seating; everything is first-come. A cozy fireplace nook with couches lies off to one side, giving a chill-out spot if you want a more relaxed view . Between shows that corner is often filled with beer-drinkers reminiscing over darts or pool. For the best audio/visual experience, standing near the stage is ideal, though watch your head on low beams! The sound carries well in the wooden interior, but if the venue is full head-for the edges to escape peak volume. A few stools by the bar offer a seat (with a view of the monitors), and occasional chairs or beer-garden tables spill into the outdoor courtyard when weather permits. There is a small “beer garden” out the front of the pub on Weedon Close – a partly covered smoking/gard en area that some bands use for late-night sets . In short, Pot Belly seating is flexible. There are no VIP sections – the vibe is always casual. Plan to stand or grab whatever seat is free; but if you do want a quieter sit-down view, the fireplace lounge is good for a chill perspective and still hears the music clearly.

Getting There and Parking

The Pot Belly is at Unit 5/26 Weedon Close, Belconnen ACT (inside the Belconnen Mall complex) . If driving, Weedon Close is a small loop off Josephson Street, just behind the Belconnen Westfield mall. Almost everybody parks in the mall carpark or nearby council lots. Westfield’s multi-storey car park (Emu Bank) is huge – it offers ~2 hours free parking (scan the ticket on exit) and then paid rates for longer stays. On Friday afternoons and weekends you can often find free on-site parking in the mall after about 5:30pm . Alternatively, street parking along Frencham or Josephson streets and the lot behind the mall are usually free or short-term. There’s a large municipal car park behind the library and even secure-park buildings a block away if needed (240 Emu Bank runs $5-6 per hour on weekends). In practice, the rule of thumb is there’s plenty of parking around Belco Town Centre, so don’t worry too much – especially after hours. Public transport is convenient too. The Belconnen Interchange (bus station on Benjamin Way) is about a 5–10 minute walk from the pub. Almost every ACTION bus from the city or suburbs stops at Belconnen; look for routes 300-series or Transport Canberra services bound for the Interchange. From there, head south along Benjamin Way toward the mall, then turn into Josephson Street and Weedon Close. Finally, rideshares and taxis know the place well: they’ll drop you right on Weedon Close if you ask for the Pot Belly or Belconnen Mall nearby.

Inside the Venue

Stepping through the Pot Belly’s door feels like entering someone’s friendly living-room bar.. The atmosphere is homey and timeworn – wood paneling, sticky taphandles, and live music posters everywhere. Staff are typically in T-shirts and shorts (friendly and unpretentious), and service is at-the-bar. You’ll encounter the usual entry tipple – to get into licensed events you must be 18+ with valid ID. On a no-show night (open mic, quiet night) there may be no cover but the pub will still serve drinks. When a gig is on, however, they might rope off the entrance (with cover-charging at the door) – just follow the queue and show ID. Food and drink at Pot Belly are straightforward: think beer and hearty pub grub. The bar’s pride is its beer list – mostly craft beers from Australian microbreweries, rotated regularly (and some the owners brew themselves on Sundays ). Cocktails and spirits are equally quirky – they proudly stock unusual gins and vodkas, many made in-house. A range of bottled ciders and wines round out the menu, all at pub-style prices. If you’re hungry, expect pizzas and simple bistro plates – the kitchen turns out handmade pizzas (house dough & sauce), pork and chicken dishes, steaks or schnitzels and bar snacks. The menu is fairly casual; there’s no dining room, so food is ordered and picked up at the bar, often delivered directly to tables when ready. Look for specials like beer tasting paddle flights (3 mini-pints for around $10 ) – these are popular newcomers’ tips. The jukebox stays in the corner for off-show hours, and there’s a pool table and dartboard one side for after-show fun. Restrooms are at the back – standard pub toilets, one with an accessible stall. There’s a small breezeway called the “beer garden” outside (basically extra tables with covering and a smoking area) which doubles as overflow seating in fine weather. In colder months or late at night, expect heaters on and fires going – Pot Belly stays toasty. Wi-Fi is unofficial; think of it as a digital-detox pub, though most locals rely on their phones. Coat hooks or racks are scarce, so carry small things with you. Overall, Pot Belly is more house party than fancy club – plan for casual dress, easygoing service, and a relaxed vibe where conversation and music share the spotlight.

Nearby Amenities

Belconnen Town Centre has plenty to explore before or after a Pot Belly night. Within a block or two you’ll find dozens of eateries and bars. For dinner options, Filipino, Vietnamese, Indian, Thai and Chinese eateries flank the mall, as well as casual pubs. Notable local restaurants include “54 Benjamin” (modern Australian bistro), “La De Da” (American diner-style), “Pho Hub” (Vietnamese pho), “Chatterbox” (bagels and brunch) and a gourmet pizza bar right upstairs. All of these are within a 2–3 minute walk – perfect for a pre-show meal. If you want more drinks after the show, the Belconnen Hotel (“The Blue Gum”) and Belconnen Labor Club (both on Josephson St) are a 5-minute stroll away. For craft beer fans, you’re already at a brew hub, but nearby in Belconnen are also Westerfolds Brewery and Elemental Brewing (a quick taxi away in Mitchell). For lodging, options are modest since Belconnen is primarily a residential area. The closest traditional hotel is the Mercure Belconnen (on Emu Bank, a 7-minute walk). Several motel units and Airbnb stays dot the suburbs just north (Downer and Bruce). Longer-term or budget travellers often park at the low-budget ibis Budget Canberra Belconnen (a short drive). Basically, if you need a room, look along Emu Bank or Benjamin Way just behind the mall. The Belconnen Cultural Centre (with a cinema, theatres and art gallery) is just 400m away on Swanson Court – worth a visit if you’re combining arts and nightlife. And for a post-show sip, there’s always the Westfield food court upstairs (melting-pot pubs and kebab shops) which stays open late. One more tip: public transport runs until about midnight from Belconnen, and night buses ply Emu Bank. If you miss them, the taxi ranks and rideshares at Benjamin Way are usually busy till late. All in all, the strip around the Pot Belly is well-lit and busy (especially on Fridays), so it’s easy and safe to navigate after dark.

What Makes This Venue Special

What really sets the Pot Belly apart is its character and story. It isn’t just another bar – it’s a piece of Canberra lore. As one local writer put it, Belconnen was once the city’s nightlife heart and the Pot Belly is the sole survivor of a street that once held half-a-dozen nightclubs . Its retentive 1970s interior – from the second-hand timber bar to the faded wallpaper (once Grecian, then painted over during an ill-fated Irish-pub phase ) – makes it feel like a preserved time capsule. That sense of history is literal: original details like the carved wooden arches (the pregnant-woman relief) give the place personality no modern bar can mimic . In 熟 old tales, you’ll even hear of firefighters cooling down young recruits under the hedges after Friday lunchtime “happy hour” at the Pot Belly ! Culturally, Pot Belly matters because it’s fiercely local. Its owner “Guv” Toor (who took over in 2015 ) is himself a musician and brews 70% of the bar’s drinks on-site . Even the drink names celebrate regionals (try the “Slow Beard Whiskey” or “Voodoo Acid Space King Red Ale” named for Canberra bands ). Bands and audiences love that it’s intimate – there’s not a huge stage separation, so artists feed off the crowd. Word is, on a big night the bar can pack five-deep all the way to the door . That community warmth keeps regulars coming back, and newcomers are welcomed as “one of us.” In practical terms, Pot Belly often feels like a “house party.” There’s a friendly code of conduct (no riffraff or silly rules). The floors stay sticky, the sound system is solid but not overproduced, and friends often end the night sharing house-brewed shots around the back table. It’s all about genuine fun – whether it’s debuting a nailed guitarist’s album or cheekily tagging the bar sign on the way out. The pub has even become family-friendly in its own way, with parents feeling comfortable bringing older kids to early events . For the fabric of Belconnen, the Pot Belly is a custom patch – a place where locals have celebrated birthdays, watched footy finals, hosted fundraisers and mourned together – all under the same old wooden rafters. .

Visitor Tips and Information

– Accessibility: The Pot Belly is wheelchair-accessible at the front door (ramped entrance) . Staff recommend calling ahead if you need extra help – they can clear a path and arrange seating. Inside, the aisles can be tight, but management will assist patrons with access needs. The restrooms include a disabled stall downstairs. – What to Bring: Bring photo ID for entry after 8pm (it’s a licensed bar). Cash is handy for some shows, though cards are accepted at the bar. Sunscreen or jackets might come in handy if you plan to stand in the small outdoor beer garden. A portable phone charger is wise, since service can be spotty indoors. Everything else – good company and a sense of fun – is part of the Pot Belly experience. – What Not to Bring: It’s fully licensed, so no outside alcohol or food is allowed. Cameras (non-phone) with detachable lenses or professional flashes are discouraged during gigs. Large backpacks or weird weapons – you’ll get “the look” if you try those. The pub is no-frills, so formal attire or high heels are somewhat out of place here. Wear comfortable shoes (you’ll likely be standing on wooden floors). – Entry Advice: On event nights, the door can get busy. If a band’s playing Friday or Saturday, expect a short line – in which case, arriving 30 minutes before start time helps avoid the crush. ID is checked at the entrance on big nights, and kids are usually fine if accompanied (though the crowd thins out after 9pm). Many gigs are “all-ages” early on, but after 8–9pm the pub vibe dominates, so drunk kids shouldn’t be an issue. – Behaviour and Dress: The vibe is very casual. No dress code: jeans, tees and RMs are common. Respect local etiquette – honest banter is welcome, rudeness is not. The bar staff run a tight ship on under-age drinking, so if you look young it’s wise to carry ID even if you’re over 18. – Accessibility Tools: The bar is lively, and sound levels are high on gigs. Consider earplugs if you’re sensitive. A few patrons keep foldable stools for comfort – if you have health concerns, you could bring a small seat cushion. – Arrival Time: On non-event nights (like Friday afternoons), the pub opens around 3pm (or 4pm on Wednesdays and Thursdays). For dinner and early pub sessions you can stroll in anytime after opening. After hours, the official closing is “midnight-ish,” but if bands are playing they stay open late. The small stage means shows can run quite long, so don’t rush out at 10pm if a gig is happening – the party often peaks around 11–12pm. – Local Tip: Look up “Pot Belly drawer” on Facebook or mute the Pot Belly page for last-minute schedule changes. The owners sometimes declare a “Quiet Night” on short notice (especially midweek) if attendance is low . Also, social media often advertises special collaborations (e.g. trivia nights, quiz fundraisers, etc.) that aren’t obvious on weekly event calendars. – Age Restrictions: There’s no official posted age limit at the venue itself , but remember it’s a pub in the daytime and a bar at night. A safe approach is: under-18s are fine early on with adults, but expect an 18+ environment during headline shows. The Canberra Fringe event listing shows some family-friendly (G-rated) slots , so check if kids’ shows are coming up.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is the address of The Pot Belly Bar?

The Pot Belly Bar is located at Unit 5, 26 Weedon Close, Belconnen ACT 2617 . That’s just inside the Belconnen Mall complex (near Emu Bank). If you’re using GPS, enter “Pot Belly Belconnen” or the full address. The pub is a stone’s throw from the Westfield Belconnen mall carpark.

What kind of performances happen at The Pot Belly?

A huge mix! The Pot Belly hosts live bands (rock, blues, country, metal etc.), solo acoustic acts, comedy nights, burlesque shows (like its monthly “Hot Pot Burlesque”), album launches and even Fringe comedy. Check their calendar – they generally have music or entertainment almost every Friday/Saturday. Weekly events can include open-mic or quiz nights, and they even accommodate independent festivals (like Canberra Fringe acts) .

Do I need tickets or can I just pay at the door?

It depends on the event. Most local band nights and open-mic nights are pay-at-door (just arrive and buy a cover at the entrance). Tickets are usually only needed for special events. For example, the Hot Pot Burlesque nights and Fringe shows use ticketing sites (TryBooking or Sticky) and you should book ahead . If in doubt, check Facebook or call ahead. Walk-ins are welcome on general music nights, but popular indie shows can sell out fast.

Is there seating or is it all standing room?

Mostly it’s standing-room. There are a few high-top tables and stools, plus lounge couches by the fireplace . The main floor in front of the stage is usually a general-admission standing area. For a seat, get there early to snag a bar stool or table. The cozy sofa near the bar provides a more relaxed spot (with a good view and acoustics). On nice days some tables spill into the outdoor beer garden. In short, it’s a casual dive-bar layout – so don’t expect numbered or reserved seating.

What are the drink and food options?

The bar is known for craft beer: rotating taps of local craft brews (no mainstream lager taps) , plus craft spirits and ciders. Owner-brewed beers and house-infused spirits are highlights. The kitchen serves bistro fare – house-made pizzas (with handmade dough and sauce), hearty pub meals like schnitzels, burgers and slow-cooked pork or chicken dishes . Bar snacks and fries are also available. The menu changes occasionally, so ask the bar staff about today’s specials. All meals are casual (no formal dining). They’re usually quite popular, so don’t expect fine dining – but the food is solid and satisfying with a beer-friendly vibe.

Are children allowed in the bar?

Children are welcome at family-friendly times (usually early or afternoon gigs). The Pot Belly is part-restaurant, so outside of peak late-night hours kids can come with parents. In fact, several reviews note “families and children enjoying the space” during early shows . After dark it becomes more of an 18+ pub scene. Always check the event. Some ticketed events explicitly say 18+ (like late comedy or burlesque shows). But casual music nights generally allow kids if supervised. The venue is wheelchair-accessible, which helps families with strollers too .

What are parking options and costs?

Ample parking is available at the Belconnen Town Centre. The Westfield Belconnen carpark (Emu Bank) is closest – it usually gives 2 free hours then paid parking. On Friday nights and weekends that lot often becomes free in the evening . The streets around Weedon Close have some unrestricted parking too. There’s also a council lot behind the mall and paid parking on Emu Bank near Josephson. Essentially, you’ll almost always find a spot. On-street parking is usually 2-hour limited until evening. Pro tip: after 5:30pm weekdays and all weekend it’s generally free in the mall lot, making parking easy for an evening visit .

How do I get to Pot Belly by public transport?

Catch ACTION/Transport Canberra buses to Belconnen Interchange (Benjamin Way). Almost every route in Canberra ends at Belconnen. From the bus interchange it’s a short 5–10 minute walk: head south on Benjamin Way, turn right onto Josephson Street, then left into Weedon Close. Some ride-sharing drivers will drop you off directly on Weedon Close. (There’s no train or light rail to Belconnen.) Night buses also service Belco, so check late-night timetables if you’re staying late.

Does Pot Belly have age restrictions or ID checks?

It’s a licensed bar, so you need be at least 18 to drink. In practice, ID checks are routine on entry to evening events. During early (family-friendly) hours kids are often allowed to stay with parents . Technically there’s “no known age restriction” posted , but assume that posted concerts or late-night gigs are 18+. Carry ID if you look under 25. If an event is 18+ it will be stated in the promotion.

Are recordings or social media allowed inside?

For personal snaps on your phone, sure – capture the vibe. But filming with professional cameras or flash photography should be avoided during performances (it can distract artists). Audio/video recording at gigs is generally discouraged unless an event explicitly invites it. In short: casual photos (no flash) are fine, but respect the performers and other patrons. The bar even has its own official pages, so staff might take photos too!

Is there Wi-Fi or cell coverage?

There’s no public Wi-Fi dedicated to patrons. Cell phone coverage inside is fair – typically Vodafone/Optus have signal, Telstra is hit-or-miss from the basement bar. Don’t bank on fast data; many people just post photos on the table via Bluetooth for upload outside. If you need internet, plan to tether or step outside. The pub’s atmosphere is more “look at each other” anyway!

What policies should I know about?

The Pot Belly enforces responsible service: no excessive drinking and no illegal substances. Dress code is casual. Bag checks are rare but staff reserve the right to refuse entry if you appear intoxicated or rowdy. Outside drinks/food are not allowed. Smoking/vaping is only in the outdoor area. Everyone is expected to respect the cosy space – no harassment or throwing tantrums. Basically, common pub etiquette applies. If you have special needs (like a mobility-aid or are in a wheelchair) the venue accommodates you – contact ahead if concerned. And yes, service of alcohol rules means they may cut you off if you’re over-served.

Where are restrooms, coat check, etc.?

The toilets are at the rear of the pub. There’s one men’s and one women’s room; one stall in each is step-free. There is no formal coat-check – most patrons simply hang jackets on chairs or over the back of the couch by the fireplace. If you have bulky winter gear, carry a compact bag or ask staff where to stow it. For valuables, treat it like any pub – secure them on your person or table. The staff are friendly though, so you can ask for help if needed.

Events at The Pot Belly , Belconnen

Headz are Rolling pres. Coco Bryce (NL)

Headz are Rolling pres. Royalston [Hospital Records]

Headz are Rolling present: Compa (Deep Medi, UK)

Headz are Rolling present: Ricky Force (Ireland)

Headz Are Rolling present: DJINN (uk)

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