2026 SEASON TAKING STAGE AT RED HAT AMPHITHEATER
RALEIGH, N.C., April 28, 2026- Red Hat Amphitheater is thrilled to launch its 2026 concert season. Since opening in 2010 with 20 shows, Red Hat Amphitheater has grown into one of the Southeast’s most in-demand venues. This season has 32 concerts announced so far as it delivers an exciting lineup packed with unforgettable performances from chart-topping headliners to new standouts, plus one-of-a-kind moments music lovers won’t want to miss during this sweet-sixteen season!
The 2026 season kicked off on April 14 with the rock band Bush and continues with a dynamic, genre-spanning lineup. Highlights include rock and alternative concerts from Sting (May 19), Alabama Shakes (April 25), Young the Giant with Cold War Kids (May 30), a special two-night engagement with Goose (June 26–27), and Bob Dylan (July 28). Pop and R&B shows include Khalid (June 6), Madison Beer (July 5), and Ella Mai (August 18). The country lineup has artists such as Russell Dickerson (April 23), Sam Barber (June 4), and the Turnpike Troubadours (October 10). Additional concerts include Lindsey Stirling (July 17), and the Marcus King Band (September 11). The full concert lineup, with show announcements still being added, is on www.redhatamphitheater.com/events.
This season has fan favorite artists returning to the Red Hat Amphitheater stage. O.A.R. was a part of the inaugural season, and it will be a full circle moment when they return July 29th. Other returning artists like Lamb of God, Goose, Lindsey Stirling, and Turnpike Troubadours have each built a lasting relationship with Red Hat Amphitheater, returning to this stage multiple times since 2010’s opening season. Their repeat appearances reflect a strong Raleigh fan base, and the connection bands have developed with the venue, shaping the amphitheater’s story.
Guests can join in the celebration of the 2026 season with special commemorative merchandise and moments all season long. In addition to new venue koozies, a limited-venue-edition YETI Rambler 20oz cup is also available for purchase. Guests can purchase the YETI cup at the premium bar located next to the merch shop filled with a cocktail of their choice and bring it back for discounted refills all season long.
In partnership with the venue’s culinary provider Sodexo Live!, select concerts will have activations with local Two Roosters Ice Cream, additional local food trucks, and other food and beverage experiences. Bars will offer more of the popular ready-to-drink canned cocktails from brands like Jose Cuervo, delivering bold flavors and ice-cold refreshment perfect for concert sipping. Concert attendees can again enjoy Tito’s in a Can cocktails, plus new this season, Tito’s Homemade Vodka is donating $1 for every Tito’s cocktail purchased to Friends of Wake County Animal Center, up to $10,000.
Red Hat Amphitheater continues to be all about live music and spreading love in Raleigh. Next to the box office at gate 1, fans will discover a new digital screen topped with a hand displaying the American Sign Language gesture for “I love you.” As guests read the screen’s upcoming concert lineup, they’re invited to share posed group photos featuring the “I love you” hand sign on social media with #ILoveRHA for a chance to win prizes this season. Currently, until May 31, fans will be entered to win concert tickets from the venue.
“This 16th season at Red Hat Amp is a testament to the vibrant energy of Raleigh” said Kerry Painter, Executive Director of the Raleigh Convention and Performing Arts Complex. “As we host our final season at this location, we’re reflecting on what this stage has meant to the community, and we are building towards something even greater. While our downtown evolves, we remain committed to providing a world-class stage for artists and an unforgettable atmosphere for fans.”
After this season, Red Hat Amphitheater will move one block south of its current location, kicking off Phase One of the Raleigh Convention Center expansion. This move sets the stage for the next chapter of downtown Raleigh’s evolution and keeps live music at the heart of Downtown Raleigh.