IPSWICH — Grammy-winning singer-songwriter Ed Sheeran will be hosting a one-day event Friday out of a pop-up pub behind the former EBSCO building in Ipswich.
“The Old Phone Pub,” a set created at the Old Mill building in Ipswich’s downtown, will be open only to guests who have received a confirmation text, plus one guest. Admission for those with a valid text will still not be guaranteed access as the event is subject to first-come, first-served access.
Sheeran describes The Old Phone Pub on the recently launched website, theoldphonepub.com, as “a place where memories are celebrated and new ones are made. Blending the nostalgia of times gone by with the comfort of your favorite local establishment, guests are a part of something much larger than just a night out.”
He asks fans to send text messages to 917-909-4498 with old phone messages that are meaningful to them.
The Ipswich Select Board approved a one-day wine and malt application and a weekday entertainment license for the pub set for March 28 only. The temporary structure will be gone on Saturday, with no plans to operate out of the space beyond the one-day event, according to Town Manager Stephen Crane.
The town is also encouraging the public to avoid driving in the area, with Union Street being closed. The pub is not in a readily visible location, and there are no public events scheduled.
Parking is extremely limited in the downtown area, and those who have received a confirmation text are encouraged to use the commuter rail or a ride-share service, rather than driving downtown.
Michael McHugh can be contacted at mmchugh@northofboston.com or at 781-799-5202