If you are in town from early March to late October, check out to see who is in town while you are here. Every year, Verizon brings the best touring acts to its venue. It is only minutes away from Concord Mills and Lowes Motor Speedway. You may still hear people refer to this as Blockbuster, since for many years it was know as the Blockbuster Pavilion. All kinds of acts, from country to rap, have performed here. I have seen Tina Turner, the Beach Boys, Anita Baker, Elton John, James Taylor, and Chicago all perform here.
The shows offer reserved or lawn seats. The reserved seats are up under a semi-protective shelter, while the lawn seats are out in the open. For lawn seating, you can bring a blanket and enjoy the music under the stars. There is some seating space as you first go in on the left. This space actually offers better views than the last rows of the reserved seating. To help you better view the show if you get crappy seats, they offer two huge 30- by 40-foot screens.
They do have plenty of parking at the venue, so make sure you park there and there only. There is a movie theater nearby that does enforce towing if you car is left in the park lot too long. Inside you will find ATM’s, first aid, and refreshment and souvenir stands. The venue is accessible off of Highway 49 or 29, and you will find plenty of signs to head you in the right directions. There are hotels in both the university area of Charlotte or at Concord Mills. Neither, though, is within walking distance of the pavilion. There are a number of restaurants down Highway 49 or 29 for munchies. And the show does go on rain or shine. Only the worst of storms will cause the show to be canceled. If the show doesn’t go on or has to be canceled early in the show, refunds are available. Several years ago I went to see Billy Ocean. He had only sung one song when the winds and rain got so bad that they had to cancel the show and we were able to get refunded. Last year we saw Chicago and Earth, Wind, and Fire. Rains caused Chicago to have to end their show early and no refunds were given.
This outdoor venue takes advantage of our beautiful weather here, so come and enjoy some music under our beautiful Southern skies!