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Hacks for Surviving Denver's Outdoor Concert Season

Posted on August 23, 2023   |   Updated on September 30, 2025
Peyton Garcia

Peyton Garcia

People wear ponchos to fend off the rain while sitting in the stands at Red Rocks Amphitheatre

Event-goers brave the rain at Red Rocks Amphitheatre. (Tom Cooper / Getty Images)

Concert-goers who attended Ed Sheeran’s record-breaking performance at Empower Field on Saturday night had to wait out a four-hour weather delay due to rain and lightning. Attendees were even instructed to shelter inside the concourse for an hour during the worst of it. The incident brought flashbacks of a far more dangerous weather mishap during a Louis Tomlinson concert at Red Rock Amphitheatre in June, where roughly 100 people were injured.

Summer might be outdoor concert season in Denver, but it’s also rife with wild and unpredictable weather. So before your next outdoor entertainment experience, make sure you’re prepared for any scenario Mother Nature might throw your way with these helpful concert-going hacks:

☂️ Bring Your Rain Gear

Don’t be a Colorado noob! Pack a poncho, a rain jacket, or a compact umbrella — you’re almost certainly going to face an afternoon shower this time of year. Just make sure you look up your venue’s bag/prohibited items policy first!

🔎 Know Your Venue’s Policies

Familiarize yourself with the venue’s emergency protocols and alert systems. You can usually find this information on the venue’s website.

🚰 Stay Hydrated

If the venue allows for it, bring a refillable water bottle (collapsible ones, like this, are clutch). If water bottles aren’t allowed, just make sure to hit the water station regularly, especially with these hot summer temps!

☀️

Bring Your Sun Gear

Speaking of the heat, Colorado’s high elevation means you should be doubly cautious of sun exposure. Don’t forget your hat, sunglasses, and a generous layer of sunscreen.

🆘 Have an Emergency Plan

You’re out there to have a good time, but it’s always important to be aware of your surroundings. Know where the nearest exit is and establish an exit strategy if things go awry. If you’re with other people, have a plan and a meeting point in case you get separated.

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