About Purple 33 - Enter through back alley
Purple 33 is a clandestine, members-only event venue housed in a two-story industrial warehouse at 11924 Jefferson Boulevard in the Del Rey area at the western edge of Culver City (www.laweekly.com ). The sound-driven space functions as a hybrid live-work loft and club, with art-decorated walls, a built-in bar, and a full DJ booth. In fact, it’s described as “a 2 story afterhours warehouse with 3 rooms of underground dance music” (ra.co ). The venue’s signature feature is its hidden entrance: guests literally enter through the back alley (hence the name), climbing a ground-floor patio and staircase (up a bamboo-arched stairway) to reach the main performance room (www.laweekly.com ) (www.ticketfairy.com ). With its concrete floors, neon lights, and warehouse-chic vibe, Purple 33 stands in stark contrast to commercial nightclubs. It is intimate (fitting on the order of a few hundred people at most), and crowd size is generally general-admission/dance-floor style rather than seated. Its atmosphere has been described as a “private culture community space,” a DIY art/music hub where Burning Man types, tech entrepreneurs and creatives mingle on the dance floor (www.laweekly.com ) (www.laweekly.com ).
Historically, Purple 33 was founded by Donald Cassel, a local entrepreneur and former skate-industry executive. Cassel had earlier opened a nearby club called “Area 33,” but zoning and permit battles shut that down (www.laweekly.com ). He then converted this Jefferson Blvd warehouse into Purple 33, deliberately operating it under the radar to avoid bureaucratic delays (www.laweekly.com ). (Cassel has been quoted saying the official “live/work” permit process was too frightening and expensive; he even spent his life savings on a failed Area 33 permit attempt (www.laweekly.com ) (www.laweekly.com ).) Purple 33 became known locally as a last bastion of L.A.’s underground scene, especially after the 2016 Ghost Ship fire. In late 2016, city inspectors did in fact shut Purple 33 down – finding makeshift bars, dance floors, wiring issues and more inside (www.taipeitimes.com ). But for many regulars, the legend of Purple 33 lived on. To this day its story highlights the tension between creative community spaces and official regulations.
The space matters to Culver City’s arts scene because it offers an alternative to glossy clubs. Instead of bottle-service tables, Purple 33 hosts eclectic art shows, burner-style gatherings, comedy nights and film screenings alongside its dance parties (www.laweekly.com ) (www.vice.com ). It drew in a diverse crowd – LA Weekly notes one night Cassel’s regulars ranged from tech startup founders and 60- and 70-year-old fans to even on-duty cops (www.laweekly.com ). Many promoters describe it as welcoming and well-run, with organizers even monitoring sound levels outside to be respectful of neighbors (www.laweekly.com ). In short, Purple 33 carved out a niche as a secret, all-ages-but-21+-only space (over-21 restriction is enforced) for folks who want a friendly underground party rather than a mainstream nightclub experience. Its leafy alley entrance, carved-out patio lounge and high-ceiling dance room give it a unique personality that’s become a small local legend in the LA underground music community (sometimes called a “DIY” or “Burner” venue) (www.laweekly.com ) (www.laweekly.com ).
Events and Programming
Purple 33’s lineup consists mostly of private dance parties and thematic gatherings. The venue catered especially to electronic dance music and eclectic genres – for example, chief promoter nights like the “Remedy” series (a fourth-Friday EDM party) drew local DJs spinning house, techno and bass (ra.co ). Other events included drum & bass nights, psychedelic trance, and occasional rock or metal shows depending on the organizer. Indeed, music shows featuring local DJ talent like Fritz Carlton, Ciszak, Miko Franconi and more were regularly hosted here (www.vice.com ) (es.ra.co ). On top of that, Purple 33 ran specialty events for the Burning Man community – such as theme-camp fundraisers and elaborate costume dance parties. One promoter even organized a “pajama pillow party” with a sit-down dinner and late-night rave, complete with face-painting and a cuddle lounge (www.ticketfairy.com ) (see image: gourmet grilled-cheese dinner and s’mores by the fire, then a free late-night dance party (www.ticketfairy.com )). Other past events included outdoor (alley) barbecues or scorching fire performances, film screenings and stand-up comedy nights (Comedy nights like CRAVE were held on the upstairs stage) (www.laweekly.com ) (www.vice.com ). In general, each Purple 33 event has a creative, participatory flair: expect DJs on multiple platforms, fire-spinning or light shows at times, interactive games, art displays or lounge “chill-out” activities on the patio (es.ra.co ) (www.ticketfairy.com ).
Recurring parties tended to be monthly or occasional. For example, the Remedy dance night was billed as a fourth-Friday club night, with promotional material listing guests and Go-Go dancers (ra.co ). One Purple 33 Experience event advertisement even describes a lineup of DJs “that will make you wanna move your feet all night,” plus “spectacular fire-spinning performers” and “interactive entertainment” on site (es.ra.co ) – a good snapshot of the high-energy vibe. Between big theme nights, the venue sometimes hosted one-offs for local collectives. Note that many events were organized by independent producers and required RSVP; they were often member-exclusive or invite-only. Some might sell limited “guestlist” tickets via email lists or the occasional online link. (For example, one 2019 evening sold $30 dinner tickets at the door (www.ticketfairy.com ).) Ticket prices have generally ranged from around $15 up to the $25–$30 door-fee seen at larger parties (ra.co ) (www.ticketfairy.com ).
Tickets and Booking
Purple 33 does not operate like a typical public theater; there is no regular box office or walk-up ticket window. Instead, events are mostly booked privately by promoters and attended by pre-approved guests or members. In practice, you typically join a mailing list or private Facebook group run by the venue or an organizer, or you RSVP for a specific event. Many nights required advance RSVP or a name on a guest list – in fact, LA Weekly noted that Cassel ran Purple 33 as a “private members club” to keep a low profile (www.laweekly.com ). Only occasionally are tickets sold at the door, usually at a fixed cover charge (for example, $30 at one late-night bash (www.ticketfairy.com )). Because of this, buying tickets well ahead of time is wise. Keep an eye on local event listings (often on niche platforms or through DJ networks). If you can get in contact with the organizer or a member of the venue, they can put you on the list. There is no centralized toll-free number or open website to call; the concept relies on insider channels. (Historically, Purple 33 even had a club app on iTunes/Play Store for members (ra.co ), though that may be defunct now.)
Pricing tiers are usually simple. Most events have a single cover charge, often between $20 and $30. Some community or art events have lower fees (e.g. around $15–$20) while special theme nights can be higher. Tickets, when offered, will usually be through the event’s own distribution – for example, the Pillow Party was promoted with online tickets that closed early (www.ticketfairy.com ), and it mentioned door tickets of $30 (www.ticketfairy.com ). If you get invited or discover a public sale, plan to pay cash unless otherwise specified. It’s safest to bring cash for the cover charge and any purchases (bar, coat check) unless the event explicitly states card acceptance.
Seating and Layout
Purple 33 has no fixed seating – it’s essentially an open-floor warehouse layout. The main upstairs area is a wide dance floor with the DJ booth at one end; you’ll find low couches or benches along the back walls, but the rest is standing room only. As noted, the venue spans two floors: the ground floor is a covered patio/lounge with seating around a fire pit and maybe the coat check or bar, while a long central staircase leads up to the second-floor dance hall (www.laweekly.com ). There may also be smaller side rooms or a balcony (in 2016 a promoter advertised “3 rooms” used for dancing (ra.co )), so parties can feel multi-room like a club. In any case, “best seats” depend on what you want: typically, folks who want to dance head to center floor in front of the DJ where the sound is loudest, while those who want to chill might sit on the patio or lounges along the side walls. The sonic perspective is generally the same anywhere on the floor, though some crowds find the sound mixed with neighbors in mind (Cassel had staff monitoring levels outside (www.laweekly.com )). Try to avoid dead spots (corners with speakers behind you) and don’t crowd right by a main speaker if you prefer balance.
For viewing, there is no elevated balcony in the main room, but the staircase landing and the upstairs rear provide a higher vantage over the floor if you arrive early. Some attendees have pointed out that if you stand at mid-height on the staircase, you can see the whole dance floor. Remember that free movement is part of the experience – you can walk down to the patio to sit or step outside for fresh air and then come back in. Also note acoustics: it’s a bare industrial space with concrete and metal surfaces, so the sound can be loud and echoey. Earplugs are a good idea for sensitive ears. In terms of what to avoid, there’s no assigned seating or VIP section; just be mindful of others on crowded nights. Corners near the DJ booth might be congested. In short, if you go in expecting a casual, general-admission club layout (with comfy lounge spots riotously available outside), you’ll do fine.
Getting There and Parking
Location: Purple 33 sits just east of the 405 freeway in Culver City (actually in an unmarked industrial area near the LA/Culver line). The official address is 11924 Jefferson Blvd, Culver City, CA 90230. Google Maps sometimes bounces between Culver City and Del Rey due to the odd industrial zoning, so double-check that you’re on Jefferson Blvd between Inglewood and Overland. The site is just south of Jefferson Elementary and north of a National Blvd side street.
By Car: Street parking on Jefferson and adjacent blocks is generally unmetered and free, especially on event evenings (www.ticketfairy.com ). You will likely be parking on the curb along the warehouse-lined street. There is no private lot, so treat it like any urban street parking. On busy nights you may have to circle around a block or two to find a spot – Public transportation or rideshare is often recommended to avoid the loop. When tours end late, always check for any tow-away signs in the alley (the events typically allow parking on Jefferson itself). Overall, plan to either arrive early or expect to park a few blocks away.
By Taxi/Rideshare: Because the entrance is in a back alley, many fans simply Uber or Lyft. Tell the driver the address and then walk in through the alley behind 11924 Jefferson (look for a narrow driveway or metal gate). Purple 33 events often explicitly recommend rideshare so you can “let loose” without worrying about driving home (www.ticketfairy.com ). Uber/Taxi drop-off is easiest on Jefferson itself; from there it’s an easy jog around the building to the rear entrance (there are no marked signs, so be ready to show your ID/name at the gate).
Public Transit: Culver CityBus runs Route 4 (Jefferson Blvd) within a one-block walk of the venue (www.culvercitybus.com ). One of the nearest stops is at Jefferson/Overland (Stop #418, “Condos”); a short westbound walk on Jefferson leads to the alley. In addition, the Metro Expo light rail has a station at La Cienega/Jefferson about 1.2 miles west; from there you could catch a westbound Route 4 bus or rideshare the remaining distance. (No direct subway or rail station is within a convenient walking distance.) If coming from downtown Culver City you’ll likely transfer through the Culver City Transit Center or switch bus lines. In practice, because events tend to run late, many visitors still choose Uber/Lyft home. Check bus schedules in advance; nighttime service is limited.
Walking and Cycling: The alley is fairly discrete, so if you’re walking in at night go in a group. The neighborhood is industrial but generally quiet and not known for crime. There are no dedicated bike racks on-site, but you could bike and lock it to the building or a nearby pole on Jefferson if you plan ahead.
Inside the Venue
On arrival, expect to sign in or show your name to staff at the alley entrance. Most events are 21+, so you will need valid ID (driver’s license or passport). At the door they may also scan a small RFID wristband or stamp your hand for the evening. Security is typically low-key – don’t expect a TSA-style search, but be prepared for a bag check if bringing anything more than a small purse or jacket. Metal detectors and large bag checks are rare at DIY venues, but venue staff will prevent any dangerous items (no weapons or illegal substances) from entering.
Atmosphere: The overall feel is informal and creative. Dress codes are casual and often thematic: at themed events people arrive in costumes or pajamas. Even when there’s no set theme, attendees tend to wear festival- or club-style attire (think bright colors, rave gear, or just weekend casual). Heels and heavy boots might be taxing on the concrete floor, so many guests opt for comfortable shoes. The venue itself is dimly lit with club lights, lasers or DIY artwork hung, giving it a gritty but artsy look.
Food & Drink: Food service is minimal except for special events. Occasionally there’s catered snacks or a full dinner (the 2019 Pillow Party had a gourmet grilled-cheese dinner, tomato soup, salad and s’mores station (www.ticketfairy.com )), but most nights you should eat beforehand if you want a proper meal. On-site, there will typically be a cash bar selling beer, wine, and simple mixed drinks (www.ticketfairy.com ). Simple non-alcoholic drinks may be offered or available for purchase at the bar. Expect typical club pricing on alcohol. Some nights might slickly incorporate a “sober tent” or tea lounge area (one event even advertised a made-to-order tea station) – it’s very much a communal “play space.” Don’t plan on a fancy cocktail menu; it’s more like a pizza-party atmosphere than a craft cocktail lounge.
Services: Restrooms are available indoors; there should be at least one men’s and one women’s (likely single-stall or small multi-stall rooms). In a venue this size, expect some wait lines on busy nights. Unfortunately, ADA access is questionable – there are stairs to the main floor and no visible elevator, so wheelchair access may not be fully featured. If you have mobility concerns, contact the organizers ahead to ask about accommodations. Connectivity is also limited: there is probably no Wi-Fi for guests, and cell phone signal can be patchy deep inside the thick walls. If you need internet or phone work, it’s more reliable on the ground-floor patio or just outside. Power outlets are scarce, so charge phones beforehand.
Extras: Don’t expect amenities like concert merchandise stands or coat checks as you would in a large theater. Some promoters might set up a table for event-specific merch (like T-shirts or stickers) during the night. Often, coats and bags are piled up in corners or on racks; if coat check is offered it will be by a small tip-based service. Note that mirrors and bars are often very informal (DIY wood or metal bar counters). Audio-visual equipment is usually a pro-grade DJ console and decent speaker rig, but there may not be a dedicated lighting rig beyond what rotating lights DJs bring. The vibe is communal – if you walk in shy to chat, you may find dancers hugging or sharing space in a very friendly “plur” spirit common to burner and rave culture.
Nearby Amenities
The neighborhood immediately around Purple 33 is mostly industrial, so there are few shops or restaurants within a block. For pre-show dining or post-show drinks, you’ll want to head a few minutes away:
Filipino and Fast Food: On nearby Jefferson/Overland (around 0.1 mi north) there’s a Jack-in-the-Box and small fast-food spots (if you just need a snack or coffee, a market stall is nearby). A couple of blocks west on National Blvd you’ll find a 7-Eleven or Popeyes in case of late-night cravings.Casual Dining in Culver City: The closest sit-down restaurants are in downtown Culver City (about 2–3 miles south on Jefferson/Main St). Downtown Culver has a large variety: Los Angeles classics like Father’s Office gastropub (famous burgers and beer) and Blue Plate Oysterette (seafood), trendy spots like Public School gastropub or SUGARFISH sushi, and fun bars like The Culver Hotel’s lounge on Main Street. If you have time, this area is worth hitting before a show (especially around Culver Blvd/Main St, Culver Steps, etc.).Whole Foods and Grocery: For a quick pre-party bite, there’s a Whole Foods Market one block north of the venue at Jefferson & McConnell. It’s very handy for sandwiches, pizza, salads or drinks to-go.Hotels: Culver City’s downtown offers a few nearby overnight options. The historic Culver Hotel (on Main St near Culver Blvd) is a classic choice. The newer Palihouse Culver City and The Culver Steps (in the culver steps mini-district) have loft-y rooms. On the 405 near Washington Way you’ll find an Aloft and several chain hotels. Rental houses and Airbnbs in Culver City are also plentiful – if you fly in, plan to stay in Culver City or neighboring Mar Vista/Playa Vista for convenience. Note that fair-rate shuttling from LAX is common if you’re coming late at night.Bars: There isn’t a bar right next door, but again downtown Culver is best. Some closer options include The Oldfield’s Tap Room (a block from Culver Hotel) or Kool Kafé (at Culver & Overland, just west of the 405) and Father’s Office (Culver at National, a few blocks south of Jefferson) which has a legendary beer selection. After small shows, crowds sometimes drift to the Rosenhaus (classic German pub on Sepulveda) or Mar Vista's Bars (Tenants, Drawbar) about 1.5mi west if the vibe is casual.Public Transit Access: As a reminder, the Metro Expo Line runs at La Cienega/Jefferson (1.2 miles west). If you use it, you can transfer to Culver Bus Route 4 on Jefferson to get within a block of the club as described above. Otherwise plan an Uber or Lyft after your event; LA’s buses are infrequent late at night.
What Makes This Venue Special
Purple 33’s special sauce is its underground character and community spirit. Unlike shine-box clubs with velvet ropes, this venue feels like a collective clubhouse for people who love art, music and DIY culture. Cassel’s vision was to create a “private culture space,” and attendees note it feels more like a secret party in a pal’s loft than a business-oriented nightclub (www.laweekly.com ) (www.laweekly.com ). The result is a highly creative atmosphere: for example, one attendee recalls that the upstairs stairwell was covered in guitars and art, and the dance floors were hung with tapestries and a low-slung bamboo arch – all items brought in by friends and regulars. The entrance alley and side door add to the mystique, so for many newcomers it truly feels like “entering another world.”
Culturally, Purple 33 has been a bridge between Silicon Beach and the Burner crowd. It drew young tech entrepreneurs by day and passionate DJs and artists by night, even accommodating “off-duty cop” fans (www.laweekly.com ). It gave local creatives a place to gather safely for years when they had nowhere else. Longtime visitors say it’s beloved simply because it’s inclusive and laid-back: there’s no strict dress code or fussy service, just a shared love of music and community. Even after official shutdown orders, many fans kept returning for organized pop-up events (the tagline even joked that it was “going legal” to keep the spirit alive (es.ra.co ) (www.vice.com )).
In short, artists and patrons appreciate Purple 33 for its authenticity and freedom. DJs love that they can play a true underground set without mainstream pressure, and revelers enjoy dancing among a friendly, artsy crowd. Its history – from a DIY experiment to a city crackdown and back to a ghost-of-theunderground myth – has cemented Purple 33’s status as a quirky local legend. Visitors often remember the back-alley stair climb, the communal patio fire pit, and the adrenaline of stumbling into something so offbeat. In Los Angeles’ vast nightlife scene, it stands out as one of the few places that is more art commune than nightclub, making it a uniquely cherished piece of Culver City culture.
Visitor Tips and Information
Before You Go: Check the specific event details! Because Purple 33 is so unofficial, information comes mostly from social media or word-of-mouth. Reviews and hosts may post travel hints on Facebook/Instagram for each party. Always note the exact alley address (11924 Jefferson) and any entry instructions (e.g. “look for dancers in the alley at 10 PM”). If an event is invitation-only, confirm your RSVP or membership status in advance. Because events usually run very late (some 6am+), prepare your ride home ahead of time.
What to Bring: ● ID/age verification – Nearly all events are 21+ (es.ra.co ) (ra.co ). No minors or exceptions. Cash – For the door cover (if charged) and drinks; not all events take cards at the bar. Small bag/backpack – Keep it minimal. Expect a light bag search. Avoid large backpacks or sharp objects (they’ll be turned away). Warm layer – The upstairs is enclosed and dark, but the ground-floor patio and alley are open-air. One notable event ad even warned guests to “dress warmly” since part of the event was outdoors at a fire pit (www.ticketfairy.com ). So bring a light jacket or hoodie for needed warmth. Ear protection – The DJ music is loud, and speakers can echo in the warehouse. Earplugs can prevent ringing the next day. Comfortable shoes – Dance floor is concrete, and you may stand for hours. Many clubgoers choose light sneakers or boots. Phone charger/battery pack – There are unlikely to be charging stations. Cell service may fluctuate in the industrial area. Keeping a fully charged phone is advised for navigation and calls.
On Entry: Arrive at the time listed (or slightly early if you need a seat or spot). Bottled water is often available at the bar, but no outside drinks are allowed by venue rules. Cameras/phones are usually okay for personal snapshots, but do be mindful: some dancers especially appreciate no intrusive photography. Smoking is generally only allowed in outdoor/parking areas, not inside (the alley is far from faces). If coat check is offered, it will usually cost a small tip. Otherwise, look for a designated corner or rack for coats. Membership events often won’t let you in without being on a guest-list, so if you show without notice, staff may simply keep the door closed (it’s best to confirm in advance).
During the Event: The vibe is friendly – people often dance close or chat on the patio. Eye contact and nods go a long way. Avoid noisemaking devices or objects (like laser pointers, silly string, etc.) unless specifically permitted. If you’re not dancing between songs, step to the side to not block others. Pay attention to any staff or performer announcements (sometimes they ask for volunteers or need a hand for a performance). DJ performances and dance sets have free-flowing energy, so don’t be shy to join in or at least sway with the crowd. Respect the space: it is a private building shared with other tenants (including an art studio downstairs), so keep noise respectful when leaving early.
Don’t Do: – Try to pay cash after last call : Bars usually close before the final set, so plan your purchases. – Wear huge bags or pointy shoes : It’s crowded dancing. – Arrive intoxicated beyond a social level : Entry may be refused if you pose a safety issue. – : This is a bare-bones space, not a luxury club (no fancy lighting rigs or VIP rooms). – Ignore neighbors : If asked to quiet down at the street, please comply. Cassel historically posted signs to remind DJs to keep volume civil outside (www.laweekly.com ) – show the same courtesy. – Bring valuables : Small venue, so keep your things safe or on your person (purses and phone pockets only).
Good to Know: Purple 33 occasionally rebrands itself or moves, but search names “Purple 33” or promoters’ names. Social feeds often mention “enter through back alley” to guide friends. If a calendar shows “no events,” the space may still exist for private parties. If there’s a lull, check directly with artist promoters (many maintain guest-lists for repeat events). Insider tradition is to bring solid positive energy – this community loves sharing gear and love. Last-minute, note that attendance is mostly relaxed; business casual attire or party wear is fine, but nothing too dressy is expected. Enjoy the rarity of an unpolished warehouse rave – it’s the charm that kept this place alive in the subculture, and what makes Purple 33 worth seeking out.
How can I get tickets for a Purple 33 event?
Purple 33 does not sell tickets at a public box office. Events are typically invitation-only or RSVP-based. Organizers announce events on social or private groups, and guests usually sign up via those channels. In rare cases, a limited number of tickets may be sold online or at the door (for example, one event sold $30 door tickets (www.ticketfairy.com )). The best strategy is to join the venue’s community lists or event promotions and RSVP early.
How much do tickets usually cost at Purple 33?
Cover charges vary by event. Smaller art or Burner-style nights often cost in the $15–$25 range, while themed dance parties might be around $25–$30. (For example, one late-night pajama party charged $30 at the door (www.ticketfairy.com ).) If you join as a member or guest list, sometimes entry is free or reduced. Always check the specific event flyer or announcement for pricing.
Where is Purple 33 located and how do I find it?
The venue’s address is 11924 Jefferson Blvd, Culver City, CA. It’s in an industrial area just west of the 405 freeway. Look for a nondescript warehouse building; the entrance is through a gated alley at the back of the building. In fact, event listings often note “Enter through back alley” (www.ticketfairy.com ). Give your phone’s GPS the exact address, then walk around to the rear alleyway entrance per the event instructions.
Is parking available at Purple 33?
There is no dedicated parking lot. Street parking on Jefferson Blvd and neighboring streets is generally free and used by event-goers (www.ticketfairy.com ). Look for open curbside spots; on busy evenings you may park a block or two away. Always obey posted signs. If street parking is scarce, rideshare (Uber/Lyft) is often recommended – drivers can drop you off in the alley near the entrance (www.ticketfairy.com ), avoiding parking hassles altogether.
Which public transit options serve Purple 33?
Culver City Transit’s Line 4 runs along Jefferson Blvd. The closest stop is at Jefferson/Overland Ave (Condos) (www.culvercitybus.com ), a block from the venue. You can also take the Metro Expo Line to La Cienega/Jefferson Station (about 1.2 miles west) and catch a local bus or rideshare from there. Plan your trip ahead: late-night bus service is limited, so many guests prefer Lyft/Uber after events.
What is the best place to watch the DJ or performers?
Purple 33 has a dancefloor layout with the DJ booth on the second floor. The front center area near the DJ gives the most immersive experience and loudest sound if you want to dance. However, this can get crowded. If you prefer some breathing room, try the sides or the staircase landing at the rear of the room, which offers a higher viewpoint of the action. The downstairs patio is more for chilling and socializing than performance viewing.
Can I reserve a seat or get VIP access at Purple 33?
No. Purple 33 operates on a general admission basis – there are no assigned seats or official VIP sections. All dancing and viewing areas are on a first-come basis. If you arrive early, you might snag a couch or edge space by the wall, but by nature it's a communal standing/dancing venue. The only “reserved” entry is being on the invited guest list for the event itself, not an individual seat reservation.
Is Purple 33 indoor or outdoor – what if it rains?
Purple 33 is primarily indoors (a large warehouse space), but it has an attached covered patio and back alley area. Indoor events proceed rain or shine. The outdoor patio is enclosed enough to stay dry if there’s a light rain, but heavy storms might make the back alley path slippery. Check event updates if weather is extreme. Generally, rain has little effect on if/how an event runs since the main party is inside.
What are the venue’s age and entry policies?
Most events at Purple 33 are restricted to ages 21 and up. You must show valid photo ID (driver’s license, passport, etc.) at the door. There is usually a sign-in or guest-list check. Curfew or closing times may vary by event, but lights and music often run until the early morning. Security may enforce dress or conduct standards: dress sharply is not required (casual/festival wear is welcome), but intoxicated or rowdy guests can be turned away for safety. Bags may be searched to ensure no prohibited items are brought in (no outside alcohol, illegal substances, or weapons).
What amenities are available, like food, restrooms, and accessibility?
There is a simple cash bar inside serving beer, wine and basic mixed drinks (www.ticketfairy.com ). Some events include food (e.g. one sold dinner tickets with grilled cheese and soup (www.ticketfairy.com )), but generally there is no full kitchen. You can usually buy small snacks or board games to share among guests. Restrooms are basic but functional (likely a couple of single-stall rooms). Prepare for them to be busy. As for accessibility, keep in mind the main floor is upstairs with stairs only, so people with mobility issues may have difficulty. There is no confirmed disabled access ramp. Finally, don’t expect club Wi-Fi or charging stations – cell service is patchy, so charge up before arriving.
What is the capacity of Purple 33?
Purple 33 is a relatively small-to-mid-sized warehouse space. Although exact limits aren’t published, reports and event promoters suggest it can hold on the order of a few hundred people comfortably. It’s definitely much smaller than a venue like the Roxy or Fonda. This intimate size is why events require RSVPs or guest lists – they often fill up quickly.
What kind of music and events does Purple 33 host?
Purple 33 is known for its electronic and indie vibe. You’ll find underground dance music (house, techno, drum & bass, trance) many nights, with DJs like those from LA’s Burner community (www.vice.com ). Additionally, the space hosts eclectic cultural nights: experimental art shows, comedy stand-up, film screenings, and special theme parties (costume parties, pajama raves, etc.) (www.laweekly.com ) (www.vice.com ). It is not a mainstream pop venue; expect more niche or avant-garde lineups.
Is Purple 33 actually open for business today?
Purple 33’s status can be sporadic. After its high-profile shutdown in 2016, it has continued to exist mostly as a private, invite-only space. There is no publicly posted schedule or website; event dates appear irregularly. In recent years (2020+), like many small venues it also contends with pandemic restrictions. If you’re trying to find an event, check latest social media or contact local promoters for any upcoming Purple 33 nights. Keep in mind any party might pop up at the same address, so stay connected with the community.
Why do they say “Enter through back alley”?
That phrase is literally the clue to finding the place. Purple 33’s only official entrance is a gate in the rear alley behind the building. There’s no marquee or front lobby. In fact, event pages and tickets explicitly include “Enter through back alley” as a tagline (www.ticketfairy.com ). So when you arrive, walk around to the alley at 11924 Jefferson, and you should see a doorway or sign-in setup there. It’s a cleverly honest name that tells guests exactly how to find the entrance.
