Iconic Concord, CA Venue – The Concord Pavilion

Concord Pavilion History

In a scenic, 35-acre nook within the hills of Concord, California, at 2000 Kirker Pass Rd., the Concord Pavilion is one of the San Francisco Bay Area’s premier outdoor venues. After the community hosted a summer music festival in 1973, the city began raising funds to build a large venue. Designed by revered architect Frank Gehry and landscape artist Peter Walker, the amphitheater opened in 1975 and went by Concord Pavilion up until 2000, when it changed names to Chronicle Pavilion, then Sleep Train Pavilion in 2006. In 2013, the city of Concord took over the venue, which once again became the Concord Pavilion. Over the years, it’s hosted some of the biggest names in music, from legendary crooners to pop superstars.

Concord Pavilion Performers

When a major artist rolls through the Bay Area, there’s a good chance they’ll be stopping at the Concord Pavilion. In 1977, Bing Crosby played his last concert on American soil here. Since, it’s welcomed big rockers (Aerosmith), local legends (The Jerry Garcia Band), hip-hop royalty (Nicki Minaj), pop darlings (Billie Eilish), country troubadours (Luke Bryan), and even some world-class comedians (Steve Martin). It’s also a prime spot for major summer tours and popular festivals like the annual Concord Jazz Festival.

Planning Your Visit to Concord Pavilion

Options for a bite to eat before or after the show are within a short drive of the Pavilion. Enjoy Italian comfort food at the nearby Pavilion Bar & Grill at 1508 Kirker Pass Rd. in Clayton; tacos and a cerveza at Guadalajara Grill on 5446 Ygnacio Valley Rd.; or a dish of drunken noodles at Bronze Buddha Thai Fusion at 5434 Ygnacio Valley Rd. Be sure to give yourself plenty of time to get to the venue, where only one road leads into the parking areas.

Concord Pavilion Frequently Asked Questions

What are Concord Pavilion’s parking options?

The Concord Pavilion’s on-site parking lots typically open 90 minutes before an event. Traffic can pile up, especially for sold-out shows, so it’s best to arrive early. General parking is free, or you can upgrade for an additional cost — just follow the signs to premier parking. The venue also offers pickup and drop-off zones for rideshares.

Does Concord Pavilion serve food?

Yes. There are concession stands throughout the venue that offer typical concert fare, like burgers, hot dogs, sausages and fries, plus plenty of beer and soda to wash it all down. Designated drivers get a free nonalcoholic beverage. All concertgoers are allowed to bring in one sealed bottle of water up to 20 oz., along with their own food, as long as it fits in a clear plastic bag no larger than one gallon.

What are the seating options at Concord Pavilion?

The amphitheater allows for spacious seating with a total capacity of 12,500. Each show has a slightly different seating chart, but most offer a select number of seats along with general admission spots at the front of the stage and on the lawn. Private box seats and accessible seating is available. From all locations, be sure to take in the spectacular view of nearby Mount Diablo. Check out the seating chart and get tickets here.

What are the Concord Pavilion safety & security guidelines?

Will call opens 90 minutes before the event starts. The Concord Pavilion maintains strict safety protocols throughout every show. All bags and backpacks may be subject to search by security. Prohibited items include outside alcoholic beverages, coolers, professional cameras, pets and umbrellas. You are allowed to bring a max 20-oz. sealed water bottle, blankets, and chairs no higher than 34 inches. For information on Concord Pavilion’s latest guidelines, contact the box office at (925) 676-8742.

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