This summer, the Vail music scene comes alive with a lineup of crowd-pleasing performances, from rock and pop to country and bluegrass, all set against the stunning backdrop of Vail’s towering mountains and the rushing Gore Creek. Whether you’re a longtime fan of Vail’s concert venues and events or discovering new favorites, don’t miss your chance to jam out in the Rockies.
The Amp
There’s no better place to see concerts in Vail than the ample lawn of Gerald R. Ford Amphitheater, also known as “The Amp.” Surrounded by the Gore Range and famous for its stunning starry-night views, this is a must-see spot for your summer trip to Vail. Get close to the all the action with covered reserved seating or spread out with general admission seating on the grass.
Summer Concert Series
May through August
This year, the summer-long concert series at The Amp returns with more headliner concerts. Lineups have included bands and singers like Portugal. The Man, The Beach Boys, Norah Jones, Amos Lee and the Indigo Girls. Lay out a blanket and watch as a fiery sunset takes over the sky while dancing to your favorite artists or being entertained by comedians. Get insider tips for Vail events at The Amp, from claiming your spot to packing a picnic.
Moe’s Original BBQ Hot Summer Nights
Select Tuesdays
A longstanding Vail tradition (we’re talking more than a decade!), Hot Summer Nights is a favorite among locals and visitors alike for Tuesday-night fun. This free concert series brings bands from today and yesterday to the The Amp every summer. Pack a delicious picnic (casual food options are also available for purchase), grab an adult beverage (you can order wine, beer and cocktails on-site), spread out a blanket and enjoy a music-filled evening. Previous years hosted acts like Tusk, The High Hawks, The Wailers and more.
Bravo! Vail
Late June through early August
At Bravo! Vail, world-class orchestras, celebrated musicians and exceptional soloists gather to perform captivating classical masterworks, soulful jazz and electrifying pop programs. Set against a backdrop of craggy peaks, these intimate performances offer stunning sights and sounds all summer long. Previous years featured chamber orchestras from cities throughout the United States including Philadelphia, Dallas and Colorado.
Free Pop-Up Concerts & Live Music
Many of Vail’s favorite musicians bring their music to the streets with pop-up performances throughout the Tyrolean-inspired villages. Chances are, you’ll come across a few as you wander Vail Village and Lionshead, but here are a few events and spots you’re sure to hear some tunes.
Lionshead Live
Mid-June through August
At the base of Vail Mountain, Lionshead Live is a free concert series with eclectic acts like Caitlin Krisko & The Broadcast and Johnny & The Mongrels, all rocking out right by the Arabelle in Lionshead Square. Order up a short-rib poutine, sip a cool cocktail and listen to tunes from the deck at Tavern on the Square or just relax and enjoy the mountain-town sunshine. These Thursday-evening concerts promise unforgettable family fun with the storybook backdrop of Lionshead Village.
Bars With Live Music
Year-round
When the sun sets, Vail restaurants and bars come alive with musical performances across genres. Whether you’re planning an après-ski stop or summer happy hour on a sun-soaked patio, visit these top bars for local tunes.
- Shakedown Bar, owned by musician Scott Rednor, rocks almost every night with live performances.
- Bridge Street Bar mixes live bands like Scott Munns and Ted Hammock with a dance room featuring a rotation of DJs.
- The Red Lion, a Vail staple since 1963, is ideal for listening to local musicians while enjoying the classic mountain view from the iconic patio.
- Pepi’s Restaurant and Bar is the perfect place for people-watching and laid-back live music. Try their Austrian beers and check out the “wall of fame” featuring notables like Buzz Aldrin and Gerald Ford.
- Vail Chophouse serves up juicy steaks and sizzling live-music sets with sunny patio vibes.
More Vail Trip-Planning Tips
Want some more ideas for your Vail vacation? Check out these resources: