Chapel Hill's oldest bar is reopening

After more than 50 years in business, The Cave was set to close at the end of April.

Posted 2:24 p.m. May 11, 2018 — Updated 6:16 p.m. Jul 12, 2018

Kathy Hanrahan, Out

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CHAPEL HILL, N.C. — Chapel Hill's oldest bar will be reopening.

The Cave closed at the end of April after owners said they were unable to sell the business. The bar had been open for 50 years at 452 W. Franklin St.

"Unfortunately, as of this past Monday it became clear that this would not likely be an option and that it is unlikely that the building owner would lease the space to another group wanting to continue as The Cave," owners wrote on the bar's Facebook page on April 19.

On Thursday, new owners shared the news that the bar would be reopening soon.

"The Cave is not dead! We will be operational again as soon as possible. Maybe within a week or two... We are planning lots of fun! With a party to celebrate. Mark your calendars for June 29," owners wrote on the bar's Facebook page.

Since opening in 1968, The Cave has hosted up and coming bands and performers. Lyle Lovett played the venue in the 1980s. The Avett Brothers played the venue in 2002. The Cave has also hosted Arcade Fire, Sylvan Esso and R.E.M.

Before it was turned into a live music venue, it was reportedly used as part of a community center for a local high school. The rock-like texture of the ceilings were rumored to have been made by people with broomstick handles.

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