Heil’s Place in Scranton closes this week after 43 years; Village Idiots play one last Wednesday
After 43 years, the legendary Heil’s Place in East Scranton is closing its doors this week, so what better way to say goodbye than with one last Wednesday night jam with the Village Idiots?
Opened on Aug. 15, 1973, the Hill Section bar and restaurant owned by John Heil, Sr., who is retiring this year at age 70, has not only been a staple watering hole for decades, but an important part of the local music scene, hosting many memorable shows with bands of all kinds over the years. Recently, the live entertainment has become less frequent, but the Village Idiots have kept up their tradition of playing every Wednesday from 11 p.m.-2 a.m. over the years (with the exception of the past year or so) and will do so again tomorrow night.
Since 1989, the Idiots have performed their own improvisational take on psychedelic, roots, and blues rock tunes by Grateful Dead and other acts associated with the iconic jam band, though Jan. 4 will likely be a standout night.
“This is the last week Heil’s Place will be open. 43 years was a good run. I’m thankful for all the friends I’ve made and appreciate everyone who has supported my family over the years,” John Heil, Jr., posted publicly on Facebook this morning. “I unfortunately won’t be in PA this week, but if you are, you should stop in for one last memory.”
The building (1002 Wheeler Ave., Scranton) has been listed for sale through Nasser Real Estate for $500,000. The sale to a potential buyer is currently pending, according to a Nasser realtor.
The bar’s last day open will be Saturday, Jan. 7. For more information on the Village Idiots show, see the Facebook event page.
