Events at The Brooklyn Monarch, Brooklyn

About The Brooklyn Monarch

The Brooklyn Monarch is a large concert venue and nightclub in East Williamsburg. Housed in a converted industrial warehouse, it retains an “industrial-chic” loft vibe typical of the neighborhood (sesh.sx). Opened around 2020 on 23 Meadow Street (between Waterbury and Bogart〔17†L7-L13〕), it is promoted as the owners’ biggest venue – a 1,500-person capacity space (with up to 500 seats in special setups) (www.thebrooklynmonarch.com). The main indoor room is augmented by an adjacent bar/garden patio with a second stage, full bar and kitchen – a unique dual-stage layout for New York. In fact, reviewers note it feels like a cross between a nightclub and the old Shea Stadium DIY club (which stood just across the street) (qromag.com). High ceilings, exposed brick and a vibrant graffiti/art décor give it a modern-but-gritty character. Overall, the Monarch matters to the Brooklyn scene as a large, all-ages venue that hosts everything from indie/metal rock to dance parties, anchoring the local live-music community in a post-Shea Stadium era.

Events and Programming

The Brooklyn Monarch programs a very eclectic slate of events. Weekends are often filled with rock, metal and punk tours – everything from local hardcore bands to mid-size alumni acts and niche “scene” groups. For example, in 2024–2025 the venue hosted headliners like Lacey Sturm (Christian rock), Tiny Moving Parts (emo/math-rock) and even classic metal tours (Rhapsody of Fire, Nile) (metalinsider.net) (metalinsider.net). It’s equally known for hosting club nights and dance events: DJs and electronic acts appear frequently (even international names like The Blessed Madonna, Helena Hauff or LSDXOXO have played here (sesh.sx)). The calendar is indeed “eclectic,” with themed parties, underground showcases and late-night sets beyond just concerts (theconcertchronicles.com). Since the space can adapt (no fixed seating), promoters run everything from all-nighter dance parties and louder rock gigs to indie-pop or hip-hop acts. Shows at the Monarch are roughly nightly. Local promoters and touring agents regularly book it for New York stops. Ticket prices vary by show – small local or mid-tier bands may charge around $15–$30, while bigger touring bands or club nights often range $40–$60 or more. The venue does not publish a fixed schedule online; it typically uses social media and its website to announce upcoming gigs. Customers should watch the Monarch’s official channels for announcements. Many events sell out in advance, though some smaller shows may have tickets at the door if available.

Tickets and Booking

Tickets for Monarch events are sold through the venue’s official site and authorized sellers. The venue typically partners with major ticket agencies (for example, its listing on AXS shows an official site link (www.axs.com)). Fans should purchase through the official ticket source listed on the event page. Popular shows often sell out, so it’s wise to buy as soon as tickets go on sale; joining the venue’s mailing list or social media can alert you to presales or special offers. General admission (floor) is the cheapest ticket tier. Some shows offer VIP/table packages next to the mixing console; these have nicer seating/affiliation but are limited in number. Note that all online ticket purchases require you to bring photo ID to the will-call window at the door. In fact, the Monarch’s FAQ explains: “You need to bring a valid physical photo ID to check in at will call. Check-in begins when doors open” (www.thebrooklynmonarch.com). Plan to arrive when doors open (often 60–90 minutes before the advertised start time). The venue does not post exact set times publicly for each act (www.thebrooklynmonarch.com), so arriving early ensures you don’t miss the opener. Box-office policies: If a show isn’t sold out, a limited number of tickets may be available at the door (cash or card). However, refunds are never issued (all ticket sales are final). The venue notes that “all sales are final. No refunds will be processed” under any circumstances. If you’re buying at the door or checking in, note that valid ID is required for age verification. For 18+ or 21+ shows, the Monarch accepts only physical, unexpired IDs (driver’s license, passport, or military ID) (www.thebrooklynmonarch.com). For all-ages shows, they will accept a school or youth ID. Finally, note that once you enter, The Monarch does **not** typically allow re-entry (no going out and coming back in for even a short break) (www.thebrooklynmonarch.com), so make sure you have everything before entering.

Seating and Layout

The Brooklyn Monarch’s layout is an open hall with one main stage. As one insider review explains, “the stage lies to the right” of the entrance, with the bar and facilities along the sides (qromag.com). The room is built for general admission: by default, “all events are standing-room only” (www.thebrooklynmonarch.com). There are no fixed rows or balconies for regular shows. This creates an intimate concert experience – the venue claims that its indoor stage “created an intimate atmosphere, allowing fans to get up close and personal with the bands without any barricade” (theconcertchronicles.com). In practical terms, the best views and sound are from the front-center of the floor, directly facing the stage. Early arrivers can stand right at the rail to get closest. A small raised area (several tables with stools) sits in front of the soundboard on the mid-right side of the room; this is often designated for VIP or reserved seating on some shows (qromag.com). But otherwise the entire dance-floor area remains free for anyone. The venue has a long rectangular bar on the right side as you enter, plus another full bar on the far left side (opposite the first). Bathrooms mirror this split: one restroom is by the front bar, and another is to the far left by the stage (qromag.com). These dual bars help spread out bartending and shorten wait times (the front-bar line can get long, so patrons often head to the side bar instead). The soundboard/P.A. booth is on the right side (near the first bar); a reviewer even notes a “seated VIP area in front of the soundboard]” ([qromag.com). Opposite the indoor stage, the Monarch has an outdoor “patio/garden” stage and seating area. During summer or multi-stage festivals, this back area is unlocked: it’s outfitted with fake grass, real trees and an auxiliary stage for openers or afterparties (qromag.com). Fans can watch smaller acts or smoke outside there. Acoustically, the main indoor room is well-tuned – one reviewer calls the Monarch’s sound system “state-of-the-art” and praises how clearly “every note... resonated throughout the room” (theconcertchronicles.com). The club’s production crew is also known to be “top-notch” (theconcertchronicles.com), so fans can expect a full concert-grade sound and lighting rig (video walls and even a disco ball are sometimes used (www.tagvenue.com)). Overall there’s no bad spot: even those near the back straight to the stage get strong audio thanks to the mixing console and speaker array.

Getting There and Parking

The Brooklyn Monarch’s address is **23 Meadow Street, Brooklyn, NY 11206** (qromag.com). It’s a few blocks north of the Williamsburg Bridge headhouse, in the Bushwick/Grand Street area. By subway, the venue is served by the L train. You can take either L to **Grand Street** or **Montrose Avenue** (East Williamsburg stops). From Grand Street (at Bushwick Ave), walk one block east on Grand St, then three blocks south on Waterbury St, and turn left (north) onto the north side of Meadow Street (qromag.com). From Montrose Ave, walk three blocks north on Bushwick Place, one block east on Stagg St, then one block north on Waterbury and right on Meadow (qromag.com). There is no closer subway line – some attendees also use the Lorimer/J train connection (at Lorimer/Metropolitan) but this is a longer walk. Multiple MTA bus routes stop within a block or two as well. For example, transit guides list **B24, B39, B60, Q54, and Q59** as passing nearby (moovitapp.com). Driving and parking in the area is tricky. There is no dedicated venue lot, and street parking is very limited on weeknights. On busy show nights, you’ll likely need to hunt for meters or use a pay lot. Apps like ParkWhiz show a couple of parking garages about 0.4 miles away (around **222 Johnson Ave** or **13 Grattan St**) (www.parkwhiz.com) (www.parkwhiz.com). These run about $15–$20 for an evening. Metered street parking does exist on some side streets, especially later at night (check signage carefully), but expect to walk several blocks if you snag a spot. Rideshares (Uber/Lyft) and taxis are usually easier – you can tell drivers to aim for 23 Meadow St. Note, however, that traffic around the bridge ramps can be very congested on Friday/Saturday nights. Finally, the NYC Ferry “East River” route stops at **South Williamsburg** (at Broadway & South 5th St) and **Greenpoint**; both are over a mile away, so these are less convenient than the L train, but are alternatives if you prefer water transit. In practice, most concert visitors rely on the L-line or car service for connections.

Inside the Venue

Inside The Monarch, expect a high-energy, club-like atmosphere. Entry is on the ground floor (no elevator needed) and people line up outside until the doors open. Once inside, there are *no metal detectors* – security does quick hand-checks of bags and VIP wristbands. (All bags and equipment are subject to search (www.thebrooklynmonarch.com).) You’ll want to have your ticket confirmation (or proof of online purchase) and photo ID ready. The staff are reported to be friendly; many regulars say the bartenders and bouncers feel like part of the community (theconcertchronicles.com). The décor is industrial yet polished: exposed brick walls, lofty ceilings with trusses, and modern light fixtures. Two full-service bars serve drinks (on the evening we went, they offered craft and domestic beers, wine and signature cocktails). There are no seats on the main floor except in the VIP tables; if you need a break, the patio out back has plastic chairs and high-tops. In terms of food, The Monarch has an on-site kitchen that’s usually open late. It serves a bar-food menu (burgers, sliders, fries, chicken tenders, etc.). A recent show review even notes patrons ordering “chicken tenders with fries courtesy of the Brooklyn Monarch’s kitchen” between bands (metalinsider.net). So yes, you can eat a full meal there. Note: outside food or drink is not permitted. Practical notes: coat check is available (for a small fee per garment), which is handy during winter. The venue does **not** offer event Wi-Fi – there’s no public wireless network, so you must rely on your phone’s cellular data indoors. If your phone battery is low, note that the bar accepts both cash and card (Visa/Mastercard/AmEx) (www.thebrooklynmonarch.com), and an ATM is on-site for cash withdrawals (www.thebrooklynmonarch.com). The sound and lighting systems are concert-grade. One reviewer praises the “state-of-the-art sound system” and excellent lighting rig that really allow the music to “resonate throughout the room” (theconcertchronicles.com). Technical crew are experienced – often those booking here will mention that the Monarch’s staff are accommodating to stage setup. (Interestingly, the venue even has a recording studio above the hall, which underscores its owner’s support for local artists (theconcertchronicles.com).) Restrooms are located on either side of the stage (one by each bar) and are kept reasonably clean. They do include at least one wheelchair-accessible restroom (the lobby entrance has a short step, but the interior is barrier-free) (www.thebrooklynmonarch.com). Smoking and vaping are strictly prohibited indoors (www.thebrooklynmonarch.com). If you need a smoke break, step outside to the backyard/patio area. Merchandise stands (selling band T-shirts, posters, etc.) pop up during most concerts, usually near the stage entrance. And it’s worth noting: the venue’s photo policy permits non-flash photography at most shows (www.thebrooklynmonarch.com), so fans commonly snap pics with phones or small cameras – just be courteous.

Nearby Amenities

East Williamsburg provides plenty of options for dining and entertainment before or after a show at The Brooklyn Monarch. A popular pre-show tradition is hitting up nearby restaurants. For example, one reviewer grabbed dinner at **Mother’s Bar & Grill** (at Grand/Stagg, just 2-3 blocks north) before a concert, enjoying their famous avocado BLT and burgers (metalinsider.net). Other local eateries within walking distance include big burger joints, barbecue spots and craft pizza places. If you want coffee or casual fare, cafes on Grand Avenue or nearby Lorimer might suit you. For nightcaps, the Williamsburg bar scene is close by – you can easily walk to Bedford Avenue or even Williamsburg proper. Neighborhood favorites like **Fort Defiance**, **The Catskills** and **Brooklyn Star** often stay open late with live DJs or extended hours, so some concert-goers spill into those spots. If the show is on a weeknight, some lounges near Morgan Ave (Lorimer/Lorimer) may also be open. The venue itself has a lively bar area, but many fans exit into the neighborhood: drinks and conversation often continue at the nearby bars or on the pavement. As for hotels, the immediate area is mostly residential/industrial. The closest hotels are in Metropolis Plaza or Williamsburg proper (for example, the **Aloft Williamsburg** or **The Pod Brooklyn**, which are about a mile away to the south). Pod Brooklyn and a few boutique inns are walkable (roughly 20 minutes). Many visitors simply stay near the L-train on Bedford/Lorimer, or even Manhattan (the Lower East Side is just across the East River). For late-night transit, rest assured: the L train runs 24/7, and Uber/Lyft coverage is excellent in this part of Brooklyn. City buses run late, but the surest bet after midnight is the L train back to Manhattan. Uber/Lyft pickups can be a little slow if there’s heavy traffic, so plan rides a bit in advance.

What Makes This Venue Special

What sets The Brooklyn Monarch apart is its blend of space, versatility and local flavor. Unlike many straight clubs or theaters, it offers dual indoor/outdoor stages in one location, plus full bar and kitchen amenities. Reviews emphasize the venue’s community-driven identity: it “supports independent acts” and prides itself on an inclusive, friendly vibe (theconcertchronicles.com) (theconcertchronicles.com). Its mission seems to straddle underground DIY culture and mainstream professionalism. As one journalist puts it, the Monarch is “a cross between a large nightclub and a DIY rock club,” capturing the best of both worlds (qromag.com). Since opening, the space has become a cultural hub. It started attracting high-profile alternative acts (The Soft Moon, Dorian Electra, A Place to Bury Strangers, etc. have all played here (sesh.sx)) while also giving a stage to behind-the-scenes local collectives and amateur nights. The venue also stands out for diversity: it hosts metal shows, indie rock, hip-hop, and even queer dance parties under one roof (sesh.sx). Its large capacity (1,500) fills a niche in Brooklyn, allowing bigger Midwest or European bands on the indie/metal tour circuit a venue that feels energetic but not stadium-sized. In terms of design, the Monarch’s building retains a rugged Williamsburg charm (exposed beams, graffiti art, a disco ball over the dance floor) that performers and fans often remark on. A college reviewer noted the place “quickly became a hotspot for live music and events” after it opened (theconcertchronicles.com), thanks to its polished sound system and production. The in-house recording studio and equipment racks hint at a serious commitment to the arts beyond just being a bar. Moreover, practical touches – strong acoustics, helpful coat check, multilingual flyers, etc. – add to the positive impression. In short, both artists and attendees tend to say the Monarch “just feels right” because it fosters fun shows and a welcoming atmosphere.

Visitor Tips and Information

Accessibility: The venue is mostly wheelchair-friendly – it’s on one level and has an ADA restroom (www.thebrooklynmonarch.com). A short step at the front door can be handled with a small ramp (staff can assist if needed). Requests for special accommodations (like large-print schedules or hearing help) can be made via email to the box office. In general, service animals are allowed per ADA rules, but pets or emotional-support animals are not. Arrival: Plan ahead and leave extra travel time. Check whether the show is all-ages or 18+/21+ (this must be printed on your ticket). If it’s an 18+ or 21+ event, bring a REAL government ID; student IDs or photocopies won’t work (www.thebrooklynmonarch.com). For teens or children on an all-ages night, a school ID is the usual requirement. Arrive at least 30 minutes before the listed on-sale time. Because set times aren’t posted in advance (www.thebrooklynmonarch.com), arriving early ensures you’ll catch every opener and avoid a last-minute rush. What to Bring/Not Bring: Pack light. Standard concert advice applies: avoid large backpacks or bags. Security will search your belongings, so a small bag or jacket is best. Umbrellas are usually fine in rain, but if it’s strongly permitted outside, be aware it may be an obstacle upstairs. No outside food or drink (just buy inside). Cameras and phones are okay – non-flash photography is explicitly allowed at most shows (www.thebrooklynmonarch.com). Some fans buy earplugs at the bar (they’re even sold there) or bring their own, especially for loud metal gigs. Closed-toe shoes and layered clothing are smart – crowds can get hot near the stage, and late nights cool down outside. Long coats can be checked. Common Mistakes: The biggest pitfalls are arriving too late and missing the opener, or forgetting a valid ID for age checks. Also, note the no re-entry policy (www.thebrooklynmonarch.com): once you leave (even if just to smoke in the back patio), you will generally not be allowed back in without repurchasing. (Plan bathroom or photo breaks carefully.) Lines at the bars can form quickly, so consider grabbing your drink early or using the lesser-known side-bar. Age Restrictions and Dress Code: The venue has no formal dress code – “come as you are” is the mantra (www.thebrooklynmonarch.com). Dress casually and comfortably. For 21+ events, of course, you must meet the age limit. Keep in mind this is a general crowd venue; it’s not a “club nightclub,” so extreme themed costumes for teens aren’t expected. In winter, coat check is available for convenience (www.thebrooklynmonarch.com). Safety: The space can get packed and energetic (especially at rock shows), so stay hydrated and respectful. Security is watchful but friendly. Don’t lean on stage barriers or stand on hazardous surfaces. If mosh pits form during heavy bands, be prepared. The front rail is generally safe for leaning against fences. If you do lose something, email the venue immediately – they have a lost-and-found policy (email info under “ABOUT”) (www.thebrooklynmonarch.com). Connectivity: Don’t rely on venue Wi-Fi (there isn’t any). Save the Monarch’s number or block it for rideshare if needed. Check bus and subway schedules if you’re catching the last train; the L line goes 24hrs but some connecting buses end service earlier. In short, the Monarch rewards early, prepared fans: arrive ready to stand and watch, bring ID if needed, and enjoy the inclusive club atmosphere. With these tips, your night should go smoothly.