Facing similar economic challenges as 900,000 other small businesses, Mary’s responds to customers’ demands

VANCOUVER, BC, CANADA, JANUARY 16, 2024 - Mary’s on Davie (aka Hamburger Mary’s) is Canada’s longest-standing, globally-inclusive restaurant. Located in the West End of Vancouver, Mary’s is like all other small businesses in Canada and struggling with the current challenges including CEBA repayments, inflation, labour shortages, and interest rates.

900,000 small businesses currently face the challenging January 18th deadline of how to handle their outstanding CEBA Loans. Restaurant industry experts claim we will see thousands of restaurants default on the loan and potentially go out of business. Mary’s on Davie is choosing to take these challenges head-on and evolving into what they consider to be the greatest evolution since its founding in 1979. 

Why Drag? Rachel Christensen, President of Hamburger Mary’s Davie Ltd says “Drag performers aline perfectly with our values. These entertainers have brought much-needed attention to issues that the 2SLGBTQIA+ Community has faced and continues to face. The reality is, no matter how challenging my life currently feels, it can’t compare to members of our most marginalized communities and these are who we need to support.”

Mary’s on Davie has a history of supporting Vancouver’s 2SLGBTQIA+ Society for 45 years. Mary’s also received press last year for holding a Kids Eat Free Event on Family Day to support our local families during such challenging times. Each December, Mary’s holds an event for Seniors and continues their support for marginalized youth through important organizations like Qmunity, located directly across the street.

Christensen says “the better Mary’s does, the more we can support our community. We are grateful for our longevity and our incredible customers. Furthermore, we are grateful to the City of Vancouver and the LCRB for new rules that allow us to expand our entertainment options.”

About Mary’s on Davie

Mary’s on Davie is Canada’s longest-standing, globally-inclusive restaurant. Since 1979, Mary’s has been the restaurant of choice for Vancouver’s 2SLGBTQIA+ Community and in return has supported numerous local charities and community groups. Mary’s on Davie is the 7th successful establishment in Vancouver to receive permission to operate with a Dual Liquor License. Tickets for “An Intimate Evening of Drag” can be purchased from the Mary’s on Davie Website

We’ve added these nights to our Vancouver Drag Events & Resources page.