Events at Sunnyvale, Brooklyn

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Ben Soundscape & Blade by Driven AM

09 November 2019

11:55 PM

Nov

Sunnyvale

Brooklyn

Nu:Logic @ Sunnyvale by Driven AM

12 October 2019

11:45 PM

Oct

Sunnyvale

Brooklyn

DnB BBQ Brooklyn Edition by Driven AM

05 October 2019

01:00 PM

Oct

Sunnyvale

Brooklyn

EMPRESS @ Sunnyvale by Driven AM

10 August 2019

11:59 PM

Aug

Sunnyvale

Brooklyn

AMIT by Driven AM

01 June 2019

11:45 PM

Jun

Sunnyvale

Brooklyn

Liondub @ Sunnyvale by Driven AM

11 May 2019

11:45 AM

May

Sunnyvale

Brooklyn

Nu:Tone by Driven AM

13 April 2019

11:45 PM

Apr

Sunnyvale

Brooklyn

DJ SUV (Reprazent) on NYE by Driven AM

31 December 2018

09:00 PM

Dec

Sunnyvale

Brooklyn

About Sunnyvale

Sunnyvale was a laid-back live music hall and bar in East Williamsburg, Brooklyn (www.ticketfairy.com). Opened in early 2016, it occupied a former industrial loft (a pre-1900 factory boiler room) and covered roughly 2,500 square feet (www.ticketfairy.com) (a-better-place.com). The owners were long-time DIY scene veterans, and they literally built the venue’s long wooden bar, stage, benches and mismatched vintage stools by hand (www.ticketfairy.com). The result was a “grungy-chic” space with high ceilings, exposed brick walls and skylights – an open, airy feel given its industrial past (www.ticketfairy.com). Even a small outdoor courtyard with a stage hosted summer backyard concerts (www.ticketfairy.com). Sunnyvale quickly earned a reputation as a unique Brooklyn club: part professional-grade music venue, part DIY underground hangout (www.ticketfairy.com) (www.ticketfairy.com). It became a hub for local art, cocktails and music, blending craft cocktails and local beers with an eclectic program of shows. (Sadly, the venue permanently closed down by late 2019 (www.chamberofcommerce.com) (www.ticketfairy.com), but its impact on the scene endures.)

Events and Programming

When it was open, Sunnyvale offered live music, dance parties, comedy nights and film screenings almost every week. In its very first month (February 2016), the grand opening featured indie-rock bands like Oberhofer and LODRO, plus a special DJ set by Genesis P-Orridge of Psychic TV (www.brooklynvegan.com). Psychic TV’s members became regulars at the bar – so much so that locals joked Sunnyvale was “like the Psychic TV bar” because Genesis or bandmates would often drop in (www.brooklynvegan.com). The venue’s bookings mixed touring garage/punk bands, folk and soul acts, and cover-worthy tribute shows (for example, a full album tribute to Nirvana’s *Nevermind*) (www.ticketfairy.com). Sunnyvale also hosted a weekly comedy showcase called “Just a Show” (featuring well-known local comics) (www.brooklynvegan.com) and monthly dance sessions like “Granny Takes Another Trip” (an experimental party curated by Genesis P-Orridge and Edley ODowd) (www.ticketfairy.com). Film events and art presentations were occasionally on the calendar as well. Most shows ran late on weekend nights, often starting around 8–9 PM and continuing to the early morning. Because the scene was DIY-friendly, ticket prices tended to be very reasonable – many local DJ sets and band nights were free or only $5–$10, while bigger acts or special events usually charged in the $10–$25 range (www.ticketfairy.com) (www.ticketfairy.com).

Tickets and Booking

When Sunnyvale was operating, tickets were handled through the venue itself. Advance tickets or wristbands were often sold via the Sunnyvale website and social media, and through local promoters’ mailing lists; big shows often sold out in advance. Fans were advised to follow Sunnyvale’s Facebook or email list to catch presales or announcements. There was also a small in-person box office: if an event wasn’t sold out, guests could just buy tickets at the door. In practice, arriving 30–60 minutes before the posted showtime usually allowed walk-up purchase or a wristband (www.ticketfairy.com) (www.ticketfairy.com). Door times varied by event, but on concert nights doors typically opened an hour before the headliner set. Cover charges were modest by NYC standards – many nights were free or $5–$10 at the door, and more notable concerts or comedy shows usually charged $10–$20 (occasionally up to $25 for big-name acts) (www.ticketfairy.com) (www.ticketfairy.com). Back when it was open, Sunnyvale did not use major ticketing agencies for most events; it relied on its own box office and local outlets. (As a reminder, Sunnyvale itself closed in 2019 (www.ticketfairy.com), so no tickets are currently on sale.)

Seating and Layout

Sunnyvale’s interior was essentially one big hall with the stage at one end. The room was about 2,500 square feet, with a high 14-foot ceiling that helped the sound carry (www.ticketfairy.com) (www.ticketfairy.com). In front of the stage there was a broad, open standing area built for roughly 150–200 guests – most shows were general-admission and standing-room only (www.ticketfairy.com) (www.ticketfairy.com). Along the side walls were built-in plush benches and scattered high-top stools for folks who wanted to sit or take a break (www.ticketfairy.com). The long wooden bar ran down one side, underneath mismatched hanging lamps, as shown in photos and described at opening (www.ticketfairy.com) (www.ticketfairy.com). A small balcony at the back wall allowed a few extra people to stand for a higher-up view, but most audience members stood on the main floor. The exposed brick and wood décor gave the place a cozy yet open feel. For outdoor shows, Sunnyvale opened up to its back lot: a patio with picnic-table seating and a small secondary stage, which became a nice beer-garden atmosphere in warm weather (www.ticketfairy.com) (www.ticketfairy.com). The venue’s production gear was solid for a small club. The stage was equipped with a decent PA and monitor system, and the owners even kept professional backline gear (e.g. high-end Fender amps and a drum kit) on hand so bands didn’t have to lug everything in (www.ticketfairy.com). Sound engineers note that the system was powerful and clear; the combination of high ceilings and brick walls gave the acoustics a lively character (though bass and vocals could feel very intense up front). Sightlines were generally good from most of the floor, but the best views of the stage were in the center a few rows back – standing too far to the sides or right next to the bar could put performers at an angle or partially blocked by other fans (www.ticketfairy.com). Overall, Sunnyvale had a spacious, unfussy layout: open floor for dancing, benches for lounging, and no fixed theater seating whatsoever. (This meant arriving early was the only way to “save” a spot or snag a bench.)

Getting There and Parking

Sunnyvale sat at 1031 Grand Street (the corner of Vandervoort Avenue) in East Williamsburg, Brooklyn (zip code 11211) (www.ticketfairy.com) (www.ticketfairy.com). This location is just east of Morgan Avenue, in a mostly industrial block. The easiest way to reach Sunnyvale was by subway: it was only a 5–7 minute walk from the L train’s Grand Street station (the Manhattan/Jackson Avenue stop on the L/Culver line) (www.ticketfairy.com) (www.ticketfairy.com). If you prefer bus, the B62 (running on Union/Grand) and B43 (Lorimer/Grand) stopped within a few blocks of the venue (www.ticketfairy.com) (www.ticketfairy.com). In short, Grand Street was well-served by transit, making it simple to get to from Manhattan or other parts of Brooklyn. Driving in can be tricky. Street parking near Sunnyvale was very limited. There were a few metered spots on Grand Street itself, and occasional free spaces on side streets like Bogart or Starr Avenue, but these filled up quickly (especially after hours) and were subject to alternate-side street cleaning rules (www.ticketfairy.com). In practice, most concertgoers either took the L train or used a rideshare. If you did drive, it was wise to arrive very early to hunt for parking a few blocks away, and allow extra time for heavy traffic on Grand Street in the late evening (www.ticketfairy.com) (www.ticketfairy.com). Rideshare drop-off & pickup was usually done on Grand Street or Vandervoort Avenue right outside the venue (www.ticketfairy.com). (Insider tip from regulars: sometimes it was easier to walk one block east to Vandervoort to find a curbspace for your Lyft/Uber.) There was no official parking lot; the location relied on city parking and transit. In summary – plan to arrive by train or share a ride, as parking was a hassle.

Inside the Venue

Entering Sunnyvale felt a bit like stepping into someone’s coolly chaotic basement bar. The front door led right into the main room, with the bar on one side and benches along the walls. The vibe was casual and friendly: you wouldn’t need to dress up (think jeans, boots, band tees or hip-casual wear) (www.ticketfairy.com). The staff were known for being welcoming and part of the music scene. Expect a ticket/ID check at busy shows: standard practice was scanning tickets or wristbands and asking for a photo ID if you appeared under 30, since most evening shows served alcohol (many were 21+ nights) (www.ticketfairy.com). Bag checks were infrequent, but security was present and relaxed. Once inside, the main attraction is the long lacquered bar (built by the owners) where twenty-somethings gathered for local draft beers and finely crafted cocktails (www.ticketfairy.com) (www.ticketfairy.com). The drink menu highlighted local brews on tap (about 13 different beers) and inventive cocktails – the most famous being a potent Long Island–style mix called “I Am The Liquor” (www.ticketfairy.com). They never installed a kitchen, so food was very basic. Typically you’d find only pre-packaged bar snacks or else people would BYO pizza from the nearby shops. In practice most attendees ate before arriving; there was no full menu at Sunnyvale (www.ticketfairy.com) (www.ticketfairy.com). Other details: cell phone service inside was usually fine for texting and ride apps, but Wi-Fi was not provided (expect to rely on your data plan) (www.ticketfairy.com). Restrooms were tucked toward the back; since it’s a small club, bathrooms often had a short line during event intermissions. There was no official coat check – in colder months, staff put out chairs or racks, and guests often placed jackets behind the bar or on spare seats (www.ticketfairy.com) (www.ticketfairy.com). For merchandise or tips, many touring bands set up a table or guitar-case donation jar near the stage front – so it was smart to carry some cash for merch (www.ticketfairy.com).

Nearby Amenities

Sunnyvale’s block was largely industrial, but a sixtel’s ride or short walk brought you to dining and entertainment spots. For dinner or pre-show eats, a top choice nearby was **Morgan’s Brooklyn Ale House** (at Morgan & Union), a local BBQish tavern known for burgers and craft beers (www.ticketfairy.com). A couple blocks west on Manhattan Avenue you’d find **Sunny’s Bar** (a punk-legend dive) and **Superfine** (New American comfort food) along with a pizza shop and a halal cart. Union Avenue (just a few blocks north) has a classic Irish pub and casual eateries if you’re in a hurry. For late-night booze around Sunnyvale, hotspots included **Los Primos** (tacos) and a small bar called Talent House a block east on Bogart Street (www.ticketfairy.com). There were no hotels immediately adjacent. Most visitors stayed in more developed hospitality areas of North Brooklyn. Common advice was to uproot earlier and catch a hotel in Williamsburg, Greenpoint or downtown Brooklyn, since Sunnyvale’s exact neighborhood lacked traditional lodging. Aftershows, many fans would take the L train home or catch a cab from Grand/Morgan or nearby avenues. (Local drivers know that SummerStarter got crowded, so folks often walked a bit away from the door to hop an Uber.)

What Makes This Venue Special

Sunnyvale stood out because it perfectly bridged Brooklyn’s DIY spirit and professional club standards. It had the vibe of an underground punk loft but the sound equipment and safety measures of a high-end bar (www.ticketfairy.com) (www.ticketfairy.com). Bands loved that they could plug into a “top-shelf” backline (Fender amps, a quality drum kit and PA) without lugging gear (www.ticketfairy.com). The converted factory layout gave it gritty character – open floorplan, exposed brick and quirky décor details (like stained-glass lamps and odd knick-knacks behind the bar) – that made it feel authentic, not corporate. Sunnyvale became particularly known for hosting avant-garde and cult acts that few other clubs dared book. It famously hosted performances and rituals by Genesis P-Orridge (Psychic TV) and co-curated events like the “Granny Takes Another Trip” party (www.ticketfairy.com). This kind of programming allied Sunnyvale with the experimental underground. Geographically, Sunnyvale was special because it helped pioneer nightlife in a once-quiet industrial part of North Brooklyn (www.ticketfairy.com). Before Sunnyvale, there were almost no decent bars or venues around Morgan Avenue – now it was a destination. The owners treated the place like their shared pride: they spent years sweat-equity building it and even invested in professional fireproofing so the space could run safely (www.ticketfairy.com). This careful attention to detail gave contributors confidence – as co-owner Alexandra Lukens said, it felt “like a bar, not a shit-show” (www.ticketfairy.com). In short, Sunnyvale’s blend of DIY ethos and professionalism, plus its friendly staff and cocktail menu, made it beloved. It launched or supported many local bands and brought touring groups into a community-oriented club. When news of its closing broke, it was clear that both Brooklyn artists and fans considered it an important home to the underground music scene.

Visitor Tips and Information

Even though Sunnyvale closed in 2019 (www.ticketfairy.com), many of its old tips still apply to similar DIY venues. Expect a casual, energetic atmosphere – anything from vintage band tees to hipster-cool attire was fine (www.ticketfairy.com). It was important to bring a valid photo ID (21+ on most nights) and a bit of cash: many acts sold merch or accepted tips in cash (www.ticketfairy.com). Earplugs were also recommended for rock shows, since sound levels were high. Don’t plan to bring large bags, food or outside drinks; the bar enforced a strict no-outside-alcohol policy (www.ticketfairy.com). If mobility access is a concern, note that Sunnyvale’s entrance was street-level with a single step up, and the main floor was flat enough for wheelchairs. (www.ticketfairy.com) However, the stage deck and bathroom entrances were raised and narrow, so wheelchair users or those needing assistance were advised to contact the venue ahead of time. Seating was mostly standing-room. If you wanted to sit, the best bet was to arrive early to grab one of the wooden wall benches or a tall stool (www.ticketfairy.com). During good weather, the back beer-garden/courtyard opened up – it was a nice way to spread out and enjoy a drink outside (www.ticketfairy.com) (www.ticketfairy.com). In winter, the loft felt cozy but could get very crowded when headliners played, so it was wise to arrive before the main act. Other notes: Doors usually opened about an hour before showtime, so plan to arrive 30–60 minutes early to get through any entry line. Most shows were general admission (first-come, first-served) (www.ticketfairy.com), so no reserved seats or table service. Check the show’s age policy: most late shows were 21+ due to the full bar, though some matinee or early events allowed all ages until around 10PM (www.ticketfairy.com). Photography rules were relaxed – many attendees took snapshots with phones between songs – but professional cameras or recording gear typically required permission. One insider trick from patrons: if a show was sold out, sometimes the side door to the bar let in last-minute walk-ups if someone left early or there were no-shows. In any case, staff and volunteers were very friendly, so feel free to ask them for help or tips on where to hang out next. Finally, a heads-up for planning today: Sunnyvale is no longer operating, so you won’t be able to attend any events there. However, its address and location on the map (1031 Grand St.) are still useful as a reference if you want to explore East Williamsburg or visit nearby venues that succeeded it. And although Sunnyvale’s own shows ended in 2019 (www.ticketfairy.com), its DIY spirit lives on in the Brooklyn music community.

Frequently Asked Questions

Is Sunnyvale still open?

No. Sunnyvale officially closed in late 2019 and is listed as permanently closed (www.chamberofcommerce.com) (www.ticketfairy.com). Although there was brief talk of a quick reopening, the venue has not resumed operations. Check local news or social updates for any projects from the old owners.

What was the capacity of Sunnyvale?

The main indoor floor was about 2,500 square feet (www.ticketfairy.com) (www.ticketfairy.com). In practice, that meant roughly 150–200 people could fit comfortably inside during a show. Including the small outdoor patio stage, total guest capacity was a couple hundred. The venue had no fixed seats – it was almost all standing-room, with benches around the edges for early arrivals (www.ticketfairy.com) (www.ticketfairy.com).

Is Sunnyvale wheelchair accessible?

Sunnyvale had a ground-level entrance with just one small step up, and once inside the floor was open and flat (www.ticketfairy.com). A wheelchair could move through the audience area. However, the stage itself was elevated with stairs and not wheelchair-accessible, and the bathroom doorways were fairly narrow. In short, the main listening area was fairly maneuverable, but there were accessibility limitations (as is common in many old loft conversions) (www.ticketfairy.com).

Were minors allowed at Sunnyvale events?

Mostly no. Since Sunnyvale had a full liquor license, most evening shows were 21+ and required valid ID at the door (www.ticketfairy.com). A few earlier shows (like weekend matinees or special family-themed events) might have been all-ages, and under-21 patrons could often stay through the first hour or so. Always check the specific event info in advance – the age policy was usually noted on the flyer or listing (www.ticketfairy.com).

How much did tickets or cover charges cost at Sunnyvale?

Cover charges at Sunnyvale were generally modest. Many local band nights were free or only $5–$10, and a visit often felt very affordable. Larger indie concerts or high-profile comedy shows typically charged in the $10–$20 range (with very occasional cases up to $25) (www.ticketfairy.com) (www.ticketfairy.com). As one review noted, almost no event exceeded $30, and most fell around $10–$15 (www.ticketfairy.com). In essence, Sunnyvale positioned itself as an affordable NYC venue. Since it’s closed now, you can’t buy tickets, but archived show listings give a sense of the range above.

Could I buy tickets at the door?

Yes – if an event wasn’t sold out, Sunnyvale typically sold tickets or provided wristbands at the door. On average nights, arriving early (around showtime) and paying at the box office worked fine (www.ticketfairy.com). For popular or sold-out acts, organizers recommended buying in advance online or via a local outlet. (After Sunnyvale closed, no new tickets are sold.)

What is the seating layout? Are seats reserved?

All shows at Sunnyvale were general admission – there were no assigned seats. The floor in front of the stage was an open standing area (www.ticketfairy.com) (www.ticketfairy.com). Walls had wooden benches and a few bar stools, so early arrivals could sit if they claimed those. Once the room filled up, it was standing-room only. In practice, getting a prime spot meant coming early to stake out a bit of floor space or a bench (www.ticketfairy.com) (www.ticketfairy.com).

What was Sunnyvale’s address?

Sunnyvale’s historic location was 1031 Grand Street, Brooklyn, NY 11211 (www.ticketfairy.com) (www.ticketfairy.com). The corner of Grand and Vandervoort Avenue in East Williamsburg. (Some older sources may list nearby numbers, but 1031 Grand St. was the official venue address.) This puts it just east of Morgan Avenue in North Brooklyn.

How do I get there by public transit?

The nearest subway stop was the Grand Street station on the L (Canarsie) line, about a 5–7 minute walk from Sunnyvale (www.ticketfairy.com) (www.ticketfairy.com). One could also ride the L to Lorimer/Morgan and walk a few extra blocks north. Several buses ran nearby: the B62 (along Union/Grand) and the B43 (Lorimer/Grand) stopped within blocks of the venue (www.ticketfairy.com) (www.ticketfairy.com). Overall, the L train is the easiest; just get off at Grand Street (Manhattan/Jackson) and walk a few minutes east. For planning today, you can still use transit maps to locate 1031 Grand St., even though the venue itself is closed.

Is there parking at Sunnyvale?

Public parking was very limited. Sunnyvale’s block only had a few metered spaces on Grand Street and some alternate-side free spots on side streets (like Bogart, Starr or Vandervoort) – and those filled up quickly on show nights (www.ticketfairy.com). In practice, most people took the subway or dropped off via rideshare. If you do drive, it helps to arrive extra early to find street parking a few blocks away. (Evenings had heavy traffic, so allow extra time.) Rideshare drop-offs were usually done at the venue’s front on Grand Street or out back on Vandervoort for easier loading (www.ticketfairy.com).

Can I bring a camera or recording device?

Casual photography was generally fine. The audience often took photos on smartphones between songs (www.ticketfairy.com). Small digital cameras for personal use were typically allowed. However, professional photo or video equipment usually required special permission from the venue or artist. In any case, filming entire sets or using flash might not have been welcomed, so when in doubt it was polite to ask staff. (No recording of full performances without consent.)

What was the dress code at Sunnyvale?

There was no strict dress code – Sunnyvale was very casual. Patrons typically came as they were: jeans, t-shirts, leather jackets, boots, or vintage finds were common (www.ticketfairy.com). Some guests leaned toward artsy or retro styles (poster-loving Brooklyn hipster fashion), but nobody wore formal attire. The main requirement was just to follow basic club rules (ID for alcohol, etc.). In short, dress comfortably and let your personal style show.

Was outside food or alcohol allowed?

No. Sunnyvale did not permit outside drinks or large food items. The bar had a strict policy of serving only its own beverages (www.ticketfairy.com). It was best to eat before you came – or grab a slice from nearby before entering. Large backpacks and outside alcohol were explicitly not allowed, so plan accordingly (www.ticketfairy.com).

What food or drinks were available inside?

Sunnyvale featured a full bar but no full kitchen (www.ticketfairy.com) (www.ticketfairy.com). The drink menu highlighted local draft beers (around 13 taps) and creative cocktails (like their famous “I Am The Liquor”) (www.ticketfairy.com). Food options were minimal: mostly pre-packaged snacks or guests sharing pizza they ordered from off-site (www.ticketfairy.com) (www.ticketfairy.com). Many concertgoers simply ate at nearby restaurants (e.g. Morgan’s Ale House) before arriving. So, expect to pay for drinks at the bar, and don’t plan on a sit-down meal inside.

Is smoking allowed inside Sunnyvale?

No. Like all NYC bars and clubs, Sunnyvale was 100% smoke-free indoors (www.ticketfairy.com). Anyone wanting to smoke or vape had to step outside. The small rear patio was sometimes used for quick smoke breaks in nice weather. This policy is mandated by city law, so expect to head outdoors if you need a cigarette between songs. (www.ticketfairy.com)

Events at Sunnyvale, Brooklyn

Ben Soundscape & Blade by Driven AM

Nu:Logic @ Sunnyvale by Driven AM

DnB BBQ Brooklyn Edition by Driven AM

EMPRESS @ Sunnyvale by Driven AM

AMIT by Driven AM

Liondub @ Sunnyvale by Driven AM

Nu:Tone by Driven AM

DJ SUV (Reprazent) on NYE by Driven AM

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