After three decades as a cornerstone of Phoenix’s music and pub scene, George & Dragon is celebrating its 30th anniversary — and reviving its legendary St. George’s Day party for the first time in 15 years. The beloved English pub near Central Avenue and Indian School Road has long been a favorite for local rock, punk, and indie musicians, and now it’s welcoming back old friends and new faces for a milestone celebration.
After three decades in Phoenix, the George & Dragon English Pub is celebrating its 30th anniversary — and reviving its iconic St. George’s Day party after a 15-year break. The beloved hangout, located near Central Avenue and Indian School Road, has long been a staple for local rock, punk, and indie musicians.
Owner David Wimberley opened the George & Dragon in 1995 after moving from England to be closer to his daughter. Although she eventually relocated again, Wimberley stayed, turning the pub into one of Phoenix’s most enduring establishments. “We have 80,000 Brits that live in the Valley, and we were the only English pub for quite some time,” he said. “Other English pubs have opened and gone away, and we’re still here — touch wood.” The pub has remained a staple for the city’s British community, even as other local English pubs came and went.
Wimberley attributes the pub’s longevity to its authentic atmosphere. “Walk into the pub, leave your passport at home,” he said. “When you walk in, you’re in England — the atmosphere, the food, the beer selection, the football on TV.”
The 30th anniversary party also celebrates the return of the St. George’s Day event, featuring local bands like Dead Hot Workshop and The Cosmic Pinwheels. The celebration had been on hold since a 2010 Gilby Clarke performance was shut down by police during a city-sponsored movie night across the street. After a dispute with the then-councilman, the pub stopped applying for outdoor event permits.
Now, with a new councilwoman in office, Wimberley said things have changed. “She’s awesome, and she loves the pub,” he said. “She said, ‘David, apply for it, you’ll get it.’ So that’s why we’re here.”
Longtime customer Dave Merenda has been a regular for years and said the atmosphere is what keeps him coming back. “Just having good times with friends,” he said. “It’s a bar — some of those times I don’t remember, but they were good.” His advice to newcomers: “Come throw some darts, have some food and beers, listen to music, and have a good time.”
The George & Dragon also holds a special place in Wimberley’s heart. The pub opened on his mother’s birthday, and each year became a double celebration. “All these people are here for me,” he remembered her saying. “I went, yeah, that’s what it is, man — they’re all here for you.”
