Catching up: The amphitheater will allow free viewing once again in 2026
Name: Allianz Amphitheater at Riverfront
Why you know it: The $30 million, 7,500-seat venue near Brown’s Island finally opened its doors in June this year, after City Council approved the project two years ago. Over 200,000 visitors attended the 33 shows hosted between June and October.
The venue made the news several times over the course of the summer, as it hosted major events like the Dave Matthews Band, as people complained about beer prices, and as the operators rented out a nearby public parking lot.
What's happening now
A spokesperson for Live Nation – which owns the amphitheater – said that the entertainment company is reviewing guest feedback and post-survey responses carefully to inform how they will enhance the fan experience in 2026.
Fans will be able to continue to watch shows for free on the hills outside of the amphitheater next year. Live Nation had anticipated that happening when the venue opened, the spokesperson said.
The company has been “encouraged to see people enjoy the area safely and responsibly, supported by traffic control teams focused on pedestrian safety,” they wrote.
However, the spokesperson did not answer questions about whether or not the company will expand the amphitheater’s footprint.
In an interview with CBS 6, Live Nation Entertainment Regional Vice President Matt Rogers said lawn capacity would be reduced at next year’s shows “to improve that overall fan experience.”
He also addressed the complaints about bathroom availability.
"We heard the guests," he told the station. "We are in our off-season capital planning process right now ... and bathrooms are top of mind for us."
Fans can pay (or not) to see musical stars like Alabama Shakes, Khalid, the Goo Goo Dolls and others beginning in April 2026.
Contact Reporter Victoria A. Ifatusin at vifatusin@richmonder.org
