My favorite concerts have always been outdoor concerts. I’ve had the best experiences at outdoor venues and I prefer them over indoor venues like TD Garden in Boston or the Times Union Center in Albany, NY. Some amphitheaters that I’ve been to are Saratoga Performing Arts Center (SPAC) in Saratoga Springs, NY, Xfinity Center in Mansfield, MA, Xfinity Theatre in Hartford, CT, Rockland Trust Bank Pavilion in Boston, MA, and Jones Beach Theater in Wantagh, NY. From my experience, it’s usually easier to get good seats for low prices at these kind of venues. I also just like the overall atmosphere of them better than indoor arenas. However, if you choose to attend a concert at an amphitheater, weather is something that can put a dent in your plans.

When you go to buy a ticket on Ticketmaster or LiveNation for a concert in an outdoor venue, there will usually be a statement on the page that says “Please Note: This event takes place rain or shine” This can be a good thing, depending on where you’re sitting. At some venues the sections closer to the stage are covered while the further back sections are completely outside. 

If it only rains, it usually doesn’t matter and the concert will keep going as scheduled. However, in some extreme weather cases, an outdoor concert could be canceled. In 2013, I went to Six Flags New England for their Summer Kick Off Concert with my friend and my sister. There were several artists that would be performing, but we were mostly there to see the British girl band Little Mix. We waited in line all day because the “venue” was essentially just a big open field and we wanted to be close to the stage.

It was so hot and sunny the whole time we were waiting, but when the time came for the concert to start, the weather changed. We only saw one act perform before they announced the show was canceled because there were thunderstorms expected and it would be dangerous for the acts and the audience to stay. We were obviously very disappointed but this was the only time one of my concerts was canceled due to weather, so I consider myself lucky.

If it is only rain though, don’t let it ruin the concert for you! In 2015, me and my sister went to Gillette Stadium in Foxboro, MA to see One Direction. At one point during the concert it started raining, and it pretty much didn’t stop the whole night. Thankfully it wasn’t a heavy rain and everything continued on despite the rain. It didn’t bother us and it definitely didn’t stop us from having fun. 

Bad weather could also mean extreme heat. If you’re going to a concert where you’ll be outside in really hot weather, be prepared. Make sure to stay hydrated and wear/bring sunscreen if necessary.

I prefer outdoor amphitheaters when going to concerts, but I know to always be prepared for weather discrepancies. As long as the concert isn’t canceled, I try not to let bad weather ruin the experience!