Portland, OR – A new chapter is poised to begin in one of Portland’s historically significant LGBTQ+ spaces. A dedicated queer bar named Peacock is slated to open its doors in the location previously occupied by the beloved Crush Bar, a venue that served the community for over two decades. The project, spearheaded by local entrepreneur Aaron Grimmer, known for his work with Picnic House, anticipates a grand opening in July 2025.
This development follows the permanent closure of Crush Bar at the end of 2024. For 23 years, since its establishment in 2001, Crush Bar stood as a cornerstone of Portland’s LGBTQ+ nightlife and community gathering. Its departure left a notable void, and the arrival of Peacock aims to honor the legacy of the space while forging a new identity focused on inclusivity and accessibility.
Leadership and Vision
Aaron Grimmer leads the initiative for Peacock, collaborating with a silent partner and a core team that is largely composed of queer industry veterans. This composition underscores the project’s commitment to being deeply rooted in the community it intends to serve. The leadership emphasizes a vision for Peacock as more than just a bar, but as a vibrant, welcoming hub designed to be accessible to everyone.
“We recognize the importance of this location and the community that has gathered here for years,” Grimmer stated in an interview. “Our goal with Peacock is to create a space that feels genuinely safe and welcoming, built by and for the queer community, but open to all allies and friends. We want to offer a reliable, enjoyable experience that fosters connection and celebration.”
Revitalizing a Historic Venue
The location itself carries considerable history within Portland’s queer landscape. Crush Bar was widely regarded as one of Portland’s oldest LGBTQ+ bars at the time of its closure. Taking over this space presents both an opportunity and a responsibility for the Peacock team – to acknowledge the past while investing in the future of queer community spaces in the city.
The team plans significant work on the interior and exterior of the venue to realize their vision, though specific renovation details remain under wraps ahead of the July 2025 target opening. The ambition is to create a refreshed environment that retains the warmth and community spirit of its predecessor while introducing modern amenities and design elements.
Offerings and Programming
Peacock intends to feature a full bar, promising signature drinks alongside classic offerings. Complementing the beverage program will be a thoughtful, affordable food menu. This dual focus on quality and value reflects an understanding of diverse community needs and aims to make the space approachable for a wider audience.
Layout plans for the venue include distinct zones designed for various types of engagement. The front area will house the main bar and provide ample seating for socializing and casual gatherings. A dedicated stage and performing area are central to the design, signaling a commitment to showcasing local talent and providing entertainment. The back area is earmarked for regular programming, suggesting a flexible space adaptable for events, performances, or larger gatherings. Additionally, plans include the retention or addition of outdoor seating, a popular feature in Portland’s bar scene.
The emphasis on regular programming highlights Peacock’s aspiration to be a dynamic space with ongoing events, which could range from drag shows and live music to community meetings and themed nights, contributing to the cultural fabric of the neighborhood and the city’s LGBTQ+ community.
A Community Space for the Future
The closure of long-standing queer establishments in urban centers is a trend observed across the globe, often attributed to rising operational costs, changing demographics, or evolving social dynamics. The opening of Peacock against this backdrop represents a significant investment in preserving and evolving physical spaces for the LGBTQ+ community in Portland.
The team’s composition of queer industry veterans is seen as a critical factor in ensuring the bar’s operations and atmosphere genuinely resonate with and serve the community. Their collective experience in hospitality, event management, and community engagement is expected to inform everything from staffing and security policies to programming choices and overall spatial design.
As the July 2025 opening approaches, anticipation is building within Portland for the arrival of Peacock. The project signals not only a new business venture but a renewed commitment to providing vital, visible, and vibrant spaces for the LGBTQ+ community and its allies in the city.
