5 Years Ago: Port City Music Hall in Portland, Maine, Hosted its Final Show

It’s hard to believe it’s been five years since one of my favorite Portland concert spots hosted its last show on March 12, 2020. Against Me! took the stage for what no one knew at the time would be the venue’s farewell show. In a very strange coincidence, it would also be the band’s final show before going on indefinite hiatus.

Just days later, the world came to a standstill as the pandemic hit, and by July, Port City Music Hall announced it wouldn’t be reopening. Just like that, one of Portland’s best music venues was gone. The loss was felt not only by the local community but also by out-of-towners who made it a destination. Even Rolling Stone took notice, covering its closure.

Owner Rob Evon opened Port City Music Hall on Congress St. in 2009, and it quickly became a staple in the local music scene. With a capacity of around 600, it struck the perfect balance—bigger than a bar with a stage, smaller than a large concert hall, and always packed with energy. In 2013, ownership changed hands when the team behind the State Theatre took over, with Lauren Wayne stepping in to manage both venues.

Port City continued to have an impressive variety of acts over the years, everything from Lake Street Dive to Clutch. They also hosted Peter Wolf (of J. Geils Band), The Struts, Cage the Elephant, Psychedelic Furs among hundreds of others. It was also a favorite for up-and-coming bands cutting their teeth in the New England scene.

What made Port City special wasn’t just the music—it was the vibe. The sound and atmosphere were always on point, and the crowd always felt like a mix of diehard fans and people just looking for a good time. It had personality.

I’ve included some pictures I snapped over the years. Unfortunately, the quality is about what you’d expect from earlier smartphone cameras—grainy, slightly blurry, and nowhere near what today’s phones can capture. Let’s just call it vintage charm.

The Struts 8/1/16

Rustic Overtones 10/10/14

Psychadelic Furs 4/9/14

X Ambassadors 9/15/15

Toad The Wet Sprocket 9/18/13

PCMH announced that they wouldn't be reopening at the end of July, 2020. Today, the space is home to Arcadia, an arcade bar, which at least keeps the fun spirit alive. But for Portland’s music lovers, Port City Music Hall will always be missed. Cheers to the good times and the legendary shows we got to witness.