Help Us Rise from the Ashes!

Your ticket purchase is more than just a contribution—it’s a lifeline for the Dayton Boot Factory, a home for the vibrant community of East Van artists, makers, and musicians. Under the glow of our iconic neon boot, this heritage landmark has been a cornerstone of Vancouver’s independent spirit for over 75 years. Your support helps us rebuild and keep that spirit alive.

Why We’re Raising Funds

On April 23rd a fire from a neighboring restaurant spread to the Dayton Boot Factory’s devastating the roof and second floor and significantly damaging the first floor and basement. The fire, took a heavy toll, leaving many without insurance to cover their losses. We’re fighting to rebuild, not just for us, but for everyone who makes this place special. The Dayton Boot Factory, a Vancouver Heritage Foundation-designated gem, isn’t just a building—it’s a living, breathing hub of East Vancouver’s irreverent heart. For decades, it crafted the best shitkickers in the Pacific Northwest. Since 2023, under new owners Hall and Tom, it’s also become a haven for independent artists, makers, and musicians, filling once-empty spaces with creativity and community.

How Your Support Will Help

Insurance alone isn’t enough to bring us back. Here’s how your contribution will make a difference:

• Rebuilding the Factory: Insurance covers only a fraction of the building’s interior—employees, inventory, and equipment. The owner’s insurance falls short for a full rebuild, and we face multiple five-figure deductibles just to start. Your funds help cover renovation costs, permits, and redevelopment to restore this heritage landmark.
• Supporting Our Artists and Makers: Many of our independent creators lost everything in the fire, with no insurance to fall back on. Your contribution will help them recover financially, so they can keep creating in East Van.
• Preserving Priceless History: The Dayton Boot Factory’s historical value is irreplaceable—insurance can’t cover that. Your support ensures this iconic space, a symbol of our neighbourhood’s independent spirit, lives on for future generations.
• Getting Back to Zero: With city permission, we can rebuild the second floor and return to the saved two floors quickly. Your funds help us secure permits and cover costs beyond insurance to make this happen.