Guide to Hot Summer Nights at the AMP [2024]
The Vail Valley is set to come alive this summer with the much-anticipated Moe’s Hot Summer Nights concert series. Since its inception in 1989, this free concert series has been a staple in the community, offering unforgettable musical experiences against the stunning backdrop of the Rocky Mountains. Deemed the #1 outdoor concert venue by USA Today in 2023, the iconic Gerald R. Ford Amphitheater, affectionately known as the Amp, hosts this year’s lineup.
From the funky, jazz-infused rock of Dogs in a Pile to the high-energy Southern Appalachian stylings of Town Mountain, each week brings something new. The lineup also features the dynamic performances of Karl Denson’s Tiny Universe and the tender, heartfelt songs of Lindsay Lou.
Who’s on Stage?
Dogs in a Pile, an eclectic quintet from Asbury Park, New Jersey, blend funk, jazz, and rock with psychedelia to create a unique sound. They craft intricate musical pieces through skilled instrumentation and storytelling inspired by personal experiences.
Town Mountain, hailing from Asheville, North Carolina, blends alt-country rebellion and honky-tonk attitude with their Southern Appalachian roots. Known for their energetic live performances, they focus on creating a two-way street of energy and emotion with their audience.
Blitzen Trapper’s new album, 100’s of 1000’s, Millions of Billions, delves into the infinite with an open heart, inspired by Eric Earley’s fascination with Buddhist texts and meditation. The album explores themes of rebirth and transcendence through surreal, reflective songs, blending lo-fi intimacy and trippy psychedelia. The result is a sprawling, mesmerizing collection wrapped in lush layers of synthesizers and electric guitars.
The Springsteen Experience is a high-energy journey through E Street concert history, recreating memorable moments from 1973 to the height of Bruce’s fame in the '80s and beyond. The show captures the authentic concert feel by featuring vintage equipment, multiple costume changes, and note-perfect renditions of Springsteen's hits.
Allen Stone, a soul/R&B luminary, captivates global audiences with his electrifying performances and soulful melodies, blending funk, gospel, folk-rock, and soul. Stone has earned critical acclaim and a devoted following from his gospel roots in Chewelah, Washington, to relentless touring and sharing stages with legends like Stevie Wonder and Chris Stapleton.
For over 25 years, KDTU has electrified audiences worldwide, from Japan's Fuji Rock Festival to Madison Square Garden alongside Dave Matthews Band and James Brown. Known for their dynamic live shows, including legendary performances at Jazzfest in New Orleans, they’ve collaborated with artists like Lenny Kravitz, Steve Winwood, and members of The Rolling Stones. Led by Karl Denson, a founding member of The Greyboy Allstars, KDTU has toured with The Allman Brothers, The Roots, and Parliament Funkadelic, leaving an indelible mark on the music scene.
Celebrated singer-songwriter Lindsay Lou's powerful, soulful vocals and heartfelt songwriting create ten tracks of tender, heartbreakingly beautiful music. Emerging in the Folk Americana genre, Lou’s concert will bring people to swoon and dance.
John “JoJo” Hermann joined Widespread Panic as a keyboardist in 1992, heavily influenced by New Orleans piano legends like Professor Longhair and Dr. John. His career has been marked by the infusion of New Orleans boogie-woogie style into his songwriting, bringing a distinctive flair to the band's sound.
Gerald R. Ford Amphitheatre / Courtesy Image
Need to Know Information
If you want to hit the ground running, you’ll need all the details. The outdoor venue is smack dab in the middle of the Vail Valley. Concerts begin June 18th and continue weekly until September 10, 2024.
Cost: Entry is FREE to all
Seating: Lawn and covered seating (bring your picnic blanket for the lawn!)
Tickets: These are non-ticketed events
Food & Drink: Concessions available. Outside food and beverages are also allowed.
On top of enjoying a national touring band free of cost, some concertgoers will get lucky and win a giveaway! So bring some good luck with you, prizes will be awarded at every concert in the series this summer. The Gerald R Ford Amphitheater is known nationally for hosting the country’s top-touring bands amidst the beauty of the Rocky Mountains. Check out their concert schedule for more concerts coming to the Amp this summer and beyond.
What to Bring:
Guests are allowed to bring food into the venue so long as it is done within venue bag policies
Personal sized coolers
Empty Water bottles
Non-alcoholic, commercially-sealed beverages
Blankets or Tarps (No larger than 5’x7′)
Umbrellas
Limited stroller parking is available along the wall adjacent to the main restrooms
A public bike rack is located across from the box office for those arriving by bike, and a bike valet is available on select dates, TBD. For a full list of what is allowed into the venue and what to leave at home, see their Policies.
Gerald R. Ford Amphitheatre Concessions / Courtesy Image
Finding Free Music in the Valley
In addition to Hot Summer Nights in Vail, the Town of Eagle, CO, hosts ShownDown Town - a free summer music series that kicks off June 27, 2024.
There’s a perfect time to find the groove in the Valley this summer, and it’s during happy hour! While searching for the best food and drink specials, you’ll also stumble upon live music around every corner. Summer happy hours are about open windows, patio vibes, and toe-tapping tunes. Want the inside scoop? Check out our ultimate guide to Happy Hour in the Vail Valley.
Mountain Fish House Cocktails I Courtesy the Inn at Riverwalk
Dining and Drinking Before & After
We take food seriously in the Vail Valley. The Valley is home to countless restaurants and bars, ranging in flavors. Here are five local favorites:
Mountain Fish House - Edwards, CO
Marko’s Pizza - Edwards, CO
Drunken Goat - Edwards, CO
La Patrona Taqueria - Edwards, CO (This taco truck has some seriously good Mexican flavors and is open late into the night.)
Main Street Grill - Edwards, CO
See our happy hour guide for a more in-depth guide to dining in the Vail Valley.
The Inn at Riverwalk King Room with Balcony
Where to Stay
For travelers wanting to be central to all happenings in the Vail Valley, indoors or out in the mountains, the Inn at Riverwalk is the perfect place. Centrally located in Edwards, CO, the Inn is a short drive to the Amp, Vail Village, and hiking trails.
Whether you are ready to go out and explore or prioritize taking time to “Stay Inn,” The Inn at Riverwalk offers guests a spot to do it all.
Nestled in the heart of Edwards, this boutique hotel offers modern comforts and easy access to all the Vail Valley has to offer. Plus, exclusive discounts await guests at nearby shops and restaurants, ensuring a memorable stay, whether exploring it all or simply savoring the tranquility.
Do it all or do nothing at all. Book your stay at The Inn and immerse yourself in the beauty and excitement of the Vail Valley.
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