TIM’s Tavern to assume operations of Slim’s Last Chance; Move offers “Backup Plan” amidst financial struggles
Sun, 02/01/2026
In a significant shift for the Seattle music community, Together In Music—the team behind TIM’s Tavern in White Center—announced it will assume day-to-day operations of Slim’s Last Chance following a joint announcement made on social media. The move, described as a way to "steward Slim's into its next chapter," ensures that the venue, a cornerstone of the local scene for over 20 years, remains open under new management.
The arrangement comes at a critical time for TIM’s Tavern. The venue has been struggling with mandatory and expensive updates, including a sewer repair and the replacement of an outdoor patio area. While TIM’s has launched a fundraising effort via SaveTims.com, this "out of the box" deal to take over Slim's—which involves no exchange of money—serves as a crucial "backup" or "escape valve" for owner Mason Reed should the efforts to save the White Center location fall short.
Despite the new responsibilities, ownership emphasized that TIM’s Tavern is not closing or relocating at this time. Together In Music intends to operate both venues simultaneously, with a focus at Slim’s on maintaining continuity, supporting existing staff and artists, and honoring current bookings.
The transition will follow a series of "send-off" shows for current owners Celeste and Michael Lucas on February 13, 14, and 15, with the "new phase" of Slim’s officially beginning on February 16.
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Official Statements
Statement from Mason Reed (Together In Music / TIM’s Tavern):
"Together In Music, the team behind TIM's Tavern in White Center, is pleased to announce that it will be assuming day-to-day operations of Slim's Last Chance, a cornerstone of the Seattle music community for more than 20 years. We're honored to carry the torch of a venue that has meant so much to so many. As a final gift to the Seattle music scene, Celeste and Michael have made it possible for us to steward Slim's into its next chapter. We're deeply grateful for their trust and for the legacy they've built.
TIM's Tavern in White Center is not closing and is not relocating. Together In Music will continue operating and programming at TIM's while expanding its efforts to support artists and live music by stewarding Slim's Last Chance. The operational focus at Slim's will be straightforward: maintain continuity, support staff and artists, honor existing bookings, and preserve the spirit and community that have defined the venue for two decades. Additional updates, including programming and operational information, will be shared as they become available."
Statement from Celeste Lucas (Slim’s Last Chance):
"The shows MUST go on. We would like to announce that we were able to work out a deal with Tim's Tavern owner Mason. It is not a typical deal but something completely out of the box that keeps Slims in Seattle and also gives him a backup if he is unable to save Tims. You all know the fight he has been facing. We poured our heart and soul into Slims and it is really hard to let go of our brand, but the outcry from Seattle has been heard. We needed to find someone we trusted enough to carry it forward with the support and preservation of our amazing long time employees. I believe we have a solid plan for the future.
It is risky as he is already juggling so much to save another venue. It will take the support of the community to achieve his goal of preserving live music and Seattle history. It's rare to have someone who cares about community and history over profit. So the goodbye shows we have planned are now send offs for myself and Michael. We truly loved serving you and hopefully our memory will carry on along with Duane, Derrick, Rick Klu, Joel, Slim, and others who have been memorialized in Slims. Michael & I plan to be at Slim's on Feb 13, 14 & 15th please come say goodbye to us. Feb 16th and beyond will be the new phase of Slims.
-Celeste Lucas"
