The Walmart AMP is back in business after closing its doors for more than a year due to COVID. After hosting a fireworks show on the Fourth of July, the Rogers concert venue is set to host Luke Bryan, Pitbull, Dave Matthews Band and more in the next few weeks.
Jennifer Wilson, Walton Arts Center public relations director, said, “It seems like everyone is excited about the return of touring concerts.”
More than 100 shows at the amphitheater were cancelled as a result of the pandemic. Nonetheless, it continued providing entertainment. Starting in September of last year, it held “Happy Hours” featuring local musicians.
“It allowed us to support local artists who have been hard hit by the pandemic and give them a place to perform,” Wilson said.
Now, as restrictions are being lifted and vaccinations are administered, fans from Arkansas and neighboring states are beginning to plan trips to Rogers for the return of anticipated performers. They will experience a venue that was expanded in 2020 to its current capacity of 11,000.
Wilson said the expansion focused on enhancing patrons’ concert experience by creating flexible viewing opportunities, gathering spaces within the venue and increasing the number of restrooms and concession windows.
The project is aimed to benefit the fans, while also improving the artists’ experience.
New policy changes for the upcoming season include:
- Clear bags are now required and can be purchased outside of the gates if patrons forget.
- Stadium chairs are no longer allowed, but patrons still can bring a small blanket or rent a lawn chair for $10.
- The AMP is cashless at concessions, now accepting credit and debit cards, as well as Apple Pay.
The Walmart AMP has been a prominent concert destination since it became a permanent venue in 2014. Its 2021 Cox Concert Series is scheduled to host 27 more shows, ranging from concerts to comedy shows and other social gatherings.
“We love having the community and the tours back in the venue,” Wilson said.
More information on Walmart AMP guidelines is available here.