Brand-new pavilion seats have been officially installed at the Gerald R. Ford Amphitheater, and this weekend, guests at Après at The Amp will be the first to see them.
After more than 40 years of faithful service, the original orange seats have earned their retirement. The new myrtle green seats — fabricated and sourced 100% in the USA, with upholstered cushions and cup holders — were chosen to complement the natural alpine landscape surrounding the venue.
Guests will also notice freshly repaired concrete, no-slip textured paint, an expanded production booth, and new hand railings throughout the pavilion.
First Look: Après at The Amp
Après at The Amp returns April 10–11, 2026, and it's the first major event where guests will get to enjoy the newly upgraded amphitheater.
The two-day electronic music festival features Grammy-winning DJ legend Tiësto, Grammy-winning German disco and electronic artist Purple Disco Machine, acclaimed DJ/producer LP Giobbi, feel-good house DJ BUNT., and more. Tickets are available at grfavail.com/apres.
It's the perfect way to kick off the spring season in Vail—world-class music, epic vibes, and the chance to be among the first to enjoy our beautiful new seats.
Music will fill Vail Village throughout the weekend, with pre-parties at Avanti Food & Beverage, late-night sets at Chasing Rabbits, and more, creating a full festival experience.
Summer at The Amp
And the music doesn't stop there. We've got an incredible summer lineup coming your way at the Gerald R. Ford Amphitheater. Here are just a few of the amazing shows on the horizon:
- June 3, 2026: Trey Anastasio
- June 19, 2026: O.A.R.
- August 13, 2026: Trombone Shorty & Orleans Avenue and St. Paul & The Broken Bones
- August 16, 2026: Alison Krauss & Union Station
- September 10, 2026: Cole Swindell
For the full Gerald R. Ford Amphitheater performance schedule and venue information, visit grfavail.com.
Part of a Larger Vision
The seating upgrade is just the first phase of a comprehensive $19 million renovation that will transform The Amp over the next few years. Future improvements will focus on comprehensive infrastructure upgrades and enhanced guest, staff and artist amenities, including:
- Remodeled and expanded concessions
- Green room and dressing room improvements
- Box office upgrades
- A new multi-use studio and special event space
- Expanded storage capabilities
- Improvements to lighting, acoustics, and office spaces
All work is targeted for completion by May 2028.
The amphitheater renovations are part of the Vail Valley Foundation's $74 million Empowering Possibility Capital Campaign, a multi-year initiative designed to transform arts, athletics, education, and community support services throughout the Eagle River Valley for the next generation. Learn more at empower.vvf.org.
Ready to experience the new Gerald R. Ford Amphitheater? Grab your Après at The Amp or Amp Summer Concert tickets at grfavail.com, and we'll see you soon!
