About 224 Manhattan Ave
224 Manhattan Avenue is the address of a small music and event space in the East Williamsburg section of Brooklyn. The building itself is a four-story mixed-use structure built in 1920 (streeteasy.com ). Its ground floor was remodeled into a bar/club space in 2015 (streeteasy.com ) and later operated under the name “Ceremony.” Inside, the venue had an industrial-chic look – exposed brick walls, high ceilings and modern lighting – creating an intimate loft-style atmosphere (sesh.sx ). It quickly earned a reputation as a community-focused spot for underground music, celebrated for its diversity and inclusivity (fans described it as a “cultural hub” for local electronic and dance artists (sesh.sx ) (sesh.sx )).
Events and Programming
When active, Ceremony hosted a wide range of live shows and dance nights. Programming included indie and experimental bands, electronic music sets and DJ dance parties. For example, Brooklyn-based improviser Caitlin Cisco performed there in May 2019 and Japanese composer Ayumi Ishito in December 2018 (www.songkick.com ). Other local bands – like Opening Bell, The Wayward, Hex Machine and Chaser – also played multi-act shows at the venue (www.songkick.com ). These were often one-off concerts or late-night club events rather than a fixed weekly series. Most events were general-admission gigs with modest cover charges (typically in the low double digits). Notably, **no events have been held at 224 Manhattan Ave since around 2019** – the venue is now listed as permanently closed (www.mapquest.com ). (All the concert listings for Ceremony stop in 2019, and the building was put on the market in 2020 (www.mapquest.com ) (streeteasy.com ).)
Tickets and Booking
When Ceremony was operating, tickets were generally sold online through independent promoters or at the door on the night of the show. There was never an official box office or ticket window on site. Patrons would typically purchase advance tickets through event websites (often via Eventbrite or similar) or simply show up and pay a cover charge at the door. Because the space is small, popular shows could sell out, so advance purchase was advised. Today, however, there are no upcoming shows or active ticket outlets for this address – the venue has ceased operations (www.mapquest.com ).
Seating and Layout
Ceremony’s layout was very straightforward: one open main floor without fixed seating. The stage or DJ booth sat at one end of the hall, facing a flat dance floor. The opposite end featured the bar and entrance. In practice this meant a fully general-admission experience – everyone stands and dances. The room was compact and narrow, so viewing was good from most spots. For live concerts, the best vantage was usually near the front center, close to the sound system, but any front-row spot on the floor provided a full immersive experience. There were a few small ledges or bar-height surfaces along the walls for guest drinks, but no reserved seats. Given the industrial interior, sound could carry and echo off the walls; earplugs were often appreciated by patrons. For comfort, arriving early in the night can help secure front positions, but even the back half of the space puts you well within earshot of the stage.
Getting There and Parking
Location: The building is at 224 Manhattan Avenue, Brooklyn, NY 11206 (streeteasy.com ), on the east side of Manhattan Avenue between Harrison Place and Flushing Avenue. It sits just west of Bushwick and south of the Brooklyn-Queens Expressway. Nearby landmarks include the Martinez Playground and the Brooklyn Latin School (mapcarta.com ).
Subway: The closest subway stop is Grand Street on the L train, about 1,300 feet (a 3-5 minute walk) from the venue (mapcarta.com ). When you exit Grand Street/L, walk west on Harrison Place (passing under the BQE) until you hit Manhattan Avenue, then turn left (south) one block. The venue is on your right at Manhattan and Harrison.
Bus/Rail: The B62 bus runs along Manhattan Avenue, stopping a block or two north of 224. Riders can take the B62 southbound and get off near Manhattan & Flushing (just a block away). (Other routes like the B48 or B60 run on nearby streets, but none stops immediately in front of the building.)
Driving/Parking: There is no private parking lot for 224 Manhattan Ave. Street parking in Williamsburg is extremely limited, especially at night. Some metered curb spaces may exist on side streets a few blocks over, but these fill up quickly. For paid parking, look for garages near the Williamsburg Bridge or along Broadway just north of North 6th Street (about a 5-10 min walk). Popular options include a lot on 321 Wythe Ave or a garage at 53 Broadway (toward Driggs Ave). However, the safest bet is to use a taxi or ride-share. Rideshare drop-off points near the venue include the corner of Manhattan Ave & Harrison Pl. Enter the address into GPS or simply know it’s on Manhattan Ave just south of the Grand St overpass.
Inside the Venue
When you enter 224 Manhattan Ave, expect a no-frills club environment. The front door leads into a small foyer or coat room (many older clubs converted from lofts have a narrow entry lobby). Staff will check your ID at the door, so bring a photo ID (see “Venue Policies” below). Inside is one large, dimly lit room. The dance floor is open with low lighting and occasional colored LEDs or spotlights over the stage. Walls and ceiling are concrete or brick – raw and unfinished – giving a warehouse vibe. A long bar runs along one wall or at the rear, serving basic cocktails, draft beer and well drinks. (Expect bar prices – typically $8–$12 per drink – or perhaps a drink ticket system for some events.) There are restrooms at the back (usually single-stall or gendered in small rooms). Service areas like coat check or merch tables, if present, sit by the entrance or stage. The overall atmosphere was lively and energetic: music is loud (bring earplugs if you’re noise-sensitive), with crowds dancing throughout. There is no formal stage curtain or backdrop – just an elevated DJ booth or band riser against one wall. The party can run late, and there may be clusters of partiers chatting by the bar or outside (people often spilled into a small stoop/curb area during late-night breaks).
Nearby Amenities
Food and Dining: The neighborhood around 224 Manhattan Ave has a variety of casual eateries. Within a few minutes’ walk you’ll find pizza shops, delis and taco stands. For example, walk north to Grand Street and you can explore diverse options: Mexican taquerias, Chinese takeout, Italian cafes, and counter-service diners. Many in the local crowd grab a slice or street taco before a show. Closer to McKibbin Street (west of Manhattan Ave) are takeout joints and coffee shops. If you want sit-down dining, Williamsburg has mid-range bistros and gastropubs a few blocks west or northeast along Grand Street or Havemeyer Street. (Remember that many restaurants stop serving dinner by 10–11pm, so plan your meal a bit early on nights with late shows.)
Bars and Drinks: For a pre- or post-show cocktail, the area has some well-known neighborhood bars. Just one block north on Grand St is Haven Lounge (683 Grand St), a cozy bar praised in local reviews (www.mapquest.com ). There are also a few hip spots along North 6th Street (a few blocks west), like ABC No-Rio or The Commodore, if you want a sit-down beer. On Manhattan Ave itself, options are sparse aside from this venue’s own bar, so most people venture a block or two to nearby streets. After the show, the L subway runs 24/7, and there are Citi Bike racks nearby if you prefer cycling home.
Hotels: There are very few “big” hotels in immediate Williamsburg (this part of the neighborhood is mostly residential and industrial). Most out-of-town visitors stay in Manhattan or Downtown Brooklyn and take trains here. If you need an overnight stay, the closest chain hotels are near the Brooklyn-Queens border (Hotel Indigo Williamsburg or The Box House in Greenpoint, each about 1–2 miles away) – a quick taxi or long subway ride from the venue. Closer to Brooklyn Bridge/NYC, there are more options. There are also some local boutique inns/Airbnbs in Williamsburg.
What Makes This Venue Special
224 Manhattan Avenue (Ceremony) had a unique grassroots spirit that set it apart from larger clubs. First, the building’s history and style gave it character: a former factory/loft space with brick walls and high ceilings, a steps-off-the-beaten-path location in East Williamsburg. It never felt like a touristy nightclub – instead it was embraced by locals as an authentic DIY venue. In particular, Ceremony’s commitment to underground music and community gave it a reputation as a cultural hub. Reviews noted it “etched its name into New York City’s vibrant electronic music scene” (sesh.sx ) by showcasing local artists alongside bigger touring DJs. Fans loved that the venue celebrated diversity and inclusivity, providing a safe space on the dance floor for all backgrounds (sesh.sx ). Even for visiting bands, it had a raw charm: some performers described it as having a “sanctuary” vibe for adventurous music. In short, what made 224 Manhattan Ave memorable was its combination of gritty, industrial ambiance and a tight-knit, artistic community – it was the kind of place where legendary dance-party stories were born. (sesh.sx ) (sesh.sx )
Visitor Tips and Information
Accessibility: The venue occupies an older building with a standard doorway entrance. There are a couple of low steps up from street level, and we have not found evidence of an elevator or ramp to the upper floors. Visitors with mobility concerns should beware that access may be limited (typical of converted warehouses). Once inside, the floors are level, but restroom access might involve a single step or narrow door. If ADA access is needed, check ahead – try calling or emailing ahead of time.
Age Restrictions: Most events at Ceremony required attendees to be at least 18 or 21, due to its bar license. It was common for shows to be 18+ (with valid ID) and often 21+ if alcohol was served freely. Always carry valid photo ID (driver’s license or passport) if you plan to drink. The only kids you’d ever see here would be if an “all-ages” show was explicitly advertised – otherwise this is a strictly adult nightclub scene.
What to Bring: Bring cash (many small venues or bar crowds prefer it, and all ages shows may accept it easily). Cover charges could range from about $10–$20, and certain nights might offer a drink ticket with entry – cash makes those smoother. You’ll also need your ID for entry. Aside from that, pack light: large backpacks or bulky bags might be discouraged at the door. (A small bag or purse is usually fine.) Cell-phone cameras are generally acceptable for personal photos, but professional camera gear (DSLRs, tripod, flash) was banned unless explicitly allowed by the event organizers. Note that lighting in the club is low – if you take photos or video, don’t expect high quality without a good flash.)
Dress Code and Conduct: There is no formal dress code, but the vibe was casual-club. Locals would typically arrive in streetwear – jeans and a stylish tee or hoodie, or whatever is comfortable for dancing. Some choose funky or retro club gear if they want, but fancy outfits aren’t necessary. The crowd is friendly; do not expect any “no sneakers” rule or strict style requirements. Just dress for a sweaty dance floor and keep any valuables zipped up.
Coat Check & Storage: In cooler months this venue often offered a coat or bag check (in order to use the small lobby area efficiently). If so, it usually charged a few dollars per coat. When in doubt, arrive early and ask the doorperson or check the entryway. It’s best not to rely on hanging around the lobby – even unclaimed coats are generally returned, but keep your important belongings with you.
Late-Night Tips: If the show runs past midnight, you’ll want a way home in advance. The L train runs overnight, which is helpful. Otherwise, rideshare services work well (the drop-off corner of Manhattan & Harrison is convenient). Local bars in the area stay open late – if you’re hungry or thirsty after the show, you can always swing by those spots. If the show ends particularly late, be aware that the neighborhood is mostly quiet residential off hours, so it’s smart to travel in groups late at night. Zusammen
Note: As of 2023-2025, this venue is no longer operating. If you arrive hoping for a live show, you will find the space closed and for sale. All information above is provided for historical context understanding what *used to be* at 224 Manhattan Ave (www.mapquest.com ), and for general planning logic that would apply if a similar event space were to open there in the future.
Is 224 Manhattan Ave (Ceremony) still open?
No – the venue formerly known as Ceremony has closed. It stopped hosting events around 2019 and is currently listed as permanently closed (www.mapquest.com ). There are no upcoming concerts or parties scheduled at this address.
Where is 224 Manhattan Ave located?
The address is 224 Manhattan Avenue, Brooklyn, NY 11206 . It’s in the East Williamsburg neighborhood, between Harrison Place and Flushing Avenue. (ZIP code 11206). This is just west of the Williamsburg Bridge and near the Grand Street subway station (streeteasy.com ).
What subway or public transit serves 224 Manhattan Ave?
The closest subway is the L train at Grand Street – only about 1,300 feet east (mapcarta.com ). Take the L to Grand Street (at Bushwick Ave), then walk west along Harrison Place and turn left on Manhattan Ave. The B62 bus also runs on Manhattan Ave and stops a block away, connecting to Brooklyn Bridge or Long Island City. Other buses (like the B48) run on nearby streets, but the L is the primary rapid transit in this area.
Is there parking at or near 224 Manhattan Ave?
There is no private parking lot at 224 Manhattan Ave. Street parking in Williamsburg is very limited, especially at night. You might find a few metered spots on side streets, but they fill up quickly. If driving, consider paid parking garages a few blocks away (e.g. on Broadway or Wythe Ave near Grand St) or use ride-share/taxi drop-off. Many visitors simply take the subway or an Uber since parking is scarce.
How were tickets sold for events?
When it was open, 224 Manhattan Ave had no box office. Tickets were typically sold through online platforms or social media (Eventbrite was common), or at the door if any remained. Advance tickets often went on sale weeks before a show. There was no official ticketing desk inside; patrons either bought in advance or paid cash at entry. Since the venue is now closed, there are no current tickets available.
What kind of seating does 224 Manhattan Ave have?
224 Manhattan Ave (Ceremony) was primarily a standing-room venue. There were no fixed seats or balconies. The floor was open for dancing or standing by the stage. There might have been a few high-top tables or bar ledges around the edges, but essentially it was a general-admission space. For any event, arrival time determined how close you could get to the stage.
Are there age restrictions or dress codes?
Most events at the last occupant (Ceremony) had age restrictions due to alcohol service. Many shows were 18+ or 21+. Always bring a photo ID to be safe. There was no formal dress code – people dressed casually or in club attire. Comfort and style are fine; just expect a dance floor atmosphere. (Leave your fancy bottles or illegal substances at home – standard nightclub rules applied.)
Can I bring bags or cameras?
The venue likely had a bag check for coats or larger bags, usually for a small fee. It’s best to carry as little as possible. Small purses or camera bags are generally okay. As for photography, casual snapshots or phone pictures without flash were typically tolerated. Large DSLR cameras or tripods are generally not allowed unless arranged in advance. Always check the event rules – some nights may prohibit camera use entirely.
Is 224 Manhattan Ave wheelchair accessible?
Probably not. The building has a few steps up at the entrance and no obvious ramps or elevators. Many converted loft venues in NYC have limited wheelchair access unless explicitly updated. If accessibility is critical for you or a guest, it’s safest to call ahead. As of the latest info, there was no ADA ramp or elevator service to the main event floor.
Are food or drinks available inside?
Yes, when it was open 224 Manhattan Ave had an indoor bar. They served standard bar drinks – beer, wine, and mixed cocktails (no full kitchen for food). You could buy drinks at the bar during the event. Outside food was not allowed. Snack or drink breaks often happened by the outdoor entrance if the show was late, but there was no restaurant service inside.
Is there a coat check or storage?
Some smaller venues offer a coat check service (usually $2–$5 per coat). It wasn’t heavily advertised, but if it was needed they likely had a simple coat hook or check counter near the entrance. If traveling light, it’s easiest to keep personal items on your person. If you have a heavy coat in winter, expect a minimal hanging area and maybe a token fee.
When should I arrive for an event?
Doors typically opened about 30–60 minutes before show time. For general admission events, arriving at door time (or right at activation) is best to get a good spot. If you come much later, you’ll be further back. Note that on weekends or big acts, lines could form outside before doors. If you prefer dancing near the front speakers, arrive early. If you’re just there to enjoy and socialize, arriving anytime up to intermission is fine.
Is there an official website or social media for event updates?
When active, Ceremony had a social media presence (Instagram/Facebook) for announcements, but no dedicated personal website of its own. Listings were more often found on event platforms. Since the venue is closed, those accounts are likely out of date or inactive. For historic info, you’d mainly find archived event posters or past concert listings on pages like Songkick.
