issing a rock still promises one wicked gift of gab, or so goes the story of the magical gifts of the bluestone built into the battlements of Blarney Castle in Blarney, Ireland. Said to give its charmer the skills of flattery and elegance when kissed (no formal courtship needed, just straight up bluestone sexual harassment), the stone has long remained an Irish staple, both steeped in a tradition of story since the 1400’s and, more recently, as a popular tourist attraction. Sounds like a fair and well-mannered legend to name a hot Gastown club after complete with a built in slogan: Have you kissed the Blarney Stone? How cute, though it seems a little clean cut for the rowdy crowd I’ve seen lined up around the corner fortnightly on Carrel Street.

Wait…How ‘bout this?

It’s widely rumored (and Irish Urban legend) that the charmer of the Blarney Stone will receive another gift when pressing his or her lips to the bluestone: some good ol’ Irish wiz. Turns out the legend asserts that both employees of the castle and locals who break in regularly, urinate on the stone after hours to have a good laugh at the tourists.

Does it sound like a bar now?

Whether it be St Patrick’s Day or not, The Blarney Stone has long been a staple in Vancouver as one of the cities best known parties, and most beloved drunkeries. While other night spots have come and gone, The Blarney Stone has stood strong for over 34 years.