Veterans United Home Loans Amphitheater

```mediawiki The Veterans United Home Loans Amphitheater, located in Virginia Beach, is an outdoor concert venue hosting a diverse range of musical acts and events annually. Originally known by several different names reflecting its sponsorship history, the amphitheater has become a significant component of the city's entertainment landscape and a key driver of tourism. With a capacity of approximately 20,000, the venue draws both national touring artists and local residents throughout the summer season.

History

The amphitheater's origins trace back to 1996, when it was constructed as the GTE Virginia Beach Amphitheater. This original construction aimed to provide a large-scale venue for outdoor performances, filling a need within the Hampton Roads region. Over time, naming rights and sponsorship changed hands, reflecting the evolving corporate landscape. The venue subsequently became known as the Verizon Wireless Amphitheater, then Farm Bureau Live at Virginia Beach, and most recently the Veterans United Home Loans Amphitheater.^[1]

These changes in sponsorship have not altered the fundamental purpose of the venue: to provide a space for large-scale outdoor entertainment. The amphitheater has hosted a wide array of performers across various genres, including country, rock, pop, and contemporary music. The City of Virginia Beach has consistently worked with venue operators to ensure the facility remains updated and capable of attracting top-tier talent.^[2] The venue is operated by Live Nation Entertainment and continues to serve as one of the primary large-capacity concert destinations in the Mid-Atlantic region. The venue's continued operation demonstrates its importance to the local economy and the cultural life of the city.

In 2026, the amphitheater announced a robust summer schedule including a performance by country and hip-hop crossover artist Jelly Roll and a show headlined by Hank Williams Jr. with The Marshall Tucker Band, reflecting the venue's continued appeal to major touring acts across multiple genres.^[3]^[4] Country star Tim McGraw is also scheduled to perform on August 6, 2026.^[5]

Geography

The Veterans United Home Loans Amphitheater is situated at 3552 Princess Anne Road, Virginia Beach, Virginia. This location provides relatively easy access from various points within the city and surrounding areas, particularly via Princess Anne Road and Interstate 264. The venue occupies a substantial plot of land, allowing for ample parking and space for vendors and event infrastructure. The surrounding area is a mix of commercial and residential development, with several hotels and restaurants located nearby.

The amphitheater's design incorporates natural elements of the coastal Virginia landscape. While not directly on the oceanfront, its proximity to the broader Virginia Beach resort area contributes to its appeal. The venue's layout is designed to maximize sightlines and sound quality for attendees, with both covered and uncovered seating options available. The surrounding terrain is relatively flat, which aids in accessibility for attendees across a range of mobility needs.

Facilities

The amphitheater features a covered pavilion section with fixed seating as well as an open lawn area, accommodating a combined capacity of approximately 20,000 guests. The covered seating provides shelter from inclement weather, while the lawn area offers a more casual concert experience. On-site amenities include multiple concession stands, restroom facilities, and vendor areas positioned throughout the grounds. The venue is designed with accessibility in mind, offering designated accessible seating areas and paved pathways throughout the facility.

The stage and sound infrastructure are designed to support large-scale touring productions, capable of accommodating the technical requirements of major national and international acts. Parking is available across several lots adjacent to the venue, though attendees are encouraged to arrive early during high-attendance events to minimize congestion.

Culture

The amphitheater plays a significant role in the cultural life of Virginia Beach, providing a focal point for entertainment and community gatherings. The types of performances hosted reflect the diverse tastes of the local population and attract visitors from across the region, spanning genres from country and rock to pop and hip-hop. Concerts at the venue often become social events, with attendees gathering before and after shows at nearby restaurants and bars.

The venue's programming extends beyond musical performances to include festivals and community celebrations. This versatility contributes to its broad appeal and reinforces its position as a central hub for cultural activity in the Hampton Roads area. The presence of the amphitheater enhances Virginia Beach's reputation as a destination for entertainment and leisure, drawing visitors who might not otherwise travel to the region outside of the traditional beach season.^[6]

Attractions

Beyond the scheduled performances, the Veterans United Home Loans Amphitheater itself functions as an attraction. The venue's size and design create a distinctive atmosphere, and the experience of attending a concert in an open-air setting draws many attendees who favor the outdoor format over arena shows. The surrounding area offers additional attractions, including shopping centers, dining establishments, and recreational facilities.

The amphitheater's location is convenient to other popular Virginia Beach destinations, such as the oceanfront, the Virginia Aquarium & Marine Science Center, and First Landing State Park. This proximity allows visitors to combine a concert experience with other activities, creating a more comprehensive vacation or day trip. The venue actively promotes these connections, encouraging attendees to explore the broader offerings of the city.^[7]

Getting There

Access to the Veterans United Home Loans Amphitheater is facilitated by a network of roadways, including Princess Anne Road and Interstate 264. Ample parking is available on-site, though traffic congestion can occur during major events. Public transportation options, such as local bus routes, provide an alternative to driving, though service may be limited during evening hours.

Ride-sharing services are readily available in the Virginia Beach area and offer a convenient option for travel to and from the amphitheater. The venue encourages attendees to plan their transportation in advance, particularly during peak event times. The City of Virginia Beach provides information on traffic conditions and parking availability through its website and social media channels.^[8]

Economy

The Veterans United Home Loans Amphitheater contributes to the local economy through several avenues. The venue generates revenue through ticket sales, concessions, and merchandise. It also supports employment in the hospitality and entertainment industries, providing jobs for event staff, security personnel, and vendors.

The influx of visitors to Virginia Beach for concerts and events benefits local businesses, including hotels, restaurants, and retail stores. The amphitheater's presence enhances the city's appeal as a tourist destination, attracting visitors who may also spend money on other attractions and activities. The economic impact of the venue extends beyond direct spending to include indirect benefits such as increased tax revenue for the city.^[9]