A new stage for Lynchburg, amphitheater opens with live music and crowds – WSET

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by Charley Vicario
LYNCHBURG, Va. (WSET) — Lynchburg was alive with energy Friday night as the city’s new amphitheater officially opened its doors with its first free concert, marking a major milestone for the downtown area.
The long-anticipated debut featured Bigfoot County, a Grateful Dead tribute band, drawing a large crowd filled with excitement, tie-dye and dancing as the venue came to life for the first time.
“We’re just so lucky and humbled to be here. The first notes to come from our band– it means the world,” said David Kellogg, guitarist for Bigfoot County.
Before the music began, a ribbon-cutting ceremony officially marked the opening of the space, a project that has been in development since March 2024. For many in attendance, the moment represented years of anticipation finally realized.
READ MORE: Lynchburg announces parking, shuttle plan for new amphitheater events
“We’ve been excited for it to get started here,” one attendee said, while another added, “If I have my happy feet on, I’ll be dancing.”
Crowds filled the lawn throughout the evening, with attendees describing the atmosphere as energetic and welcoming. One concertgoer said, “We’re just old Deadheads, old hippies,” reflecting the nostalgic appeal of the tribute performance.
Organizers say the amphitheater is intended to serve as more than just a music venue, with hopes it will bring increased tourism, additional events and economic growth to downtown Lynchburg.
“It’s been a long time coming, a lot of planning and a lot of work,” said Ty McBride of Mason Lane Entertainment. “It’s going to be something people haven’t seen in Lynchburg before.”
McBride added that if opening night is any indication, the venue is already “striking the right chord.”
If you missed Friday’s opening event, more programming is already planned for the spring and summer months as the amphitheater begins its full season of events.
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