If you’ve noticed more people talking about the concerts at The American Express than the golf itself, you’re not imagining it. Over the last few years, the tournament has quietly become a “watch some golf, grab a drink, then stay for the show” kind of event.

If you’re going mainly (or entirely) for the concerts, here’s how it actually works, where to be, when to show up, and what tends to trip people up.

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First, the Big Things People Ask

Yes, the concerts are included with your ticket. All Friday and Saturday tournament tickets include access to the concerts. There are no separate concert-only tickets, so everyone you see there came in through the golf gates first.

Concerts happen after golf wraps up, usually around 5:00 p.m., though that timing can shift a bit depending on how play runs that day. The concert area itself opens at 4:00 p.m., which matters more than people realize.

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When to Show Up (This Is Where People Misjudge It)

If you want a decent spot, showing up when the concert area opens at 4:00 p.m. is the move. You don’t need to sprint, but waiting until the last minute is how you end up watching the show from very far back while staring at the backs of heads.

If you’re more casual and just want to hear the music, arriving closer to start time is fine. Just don’t expect to wander up front without some effort.

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Where the Concerts Actually Happen

The concerts take place on the Stadium Course driving range. If you’ve been wandering the grounds all day, plan on a bit of a walk and a noticeable crowd shift as everyone funnels toward the same place.

It’s not hard to find, but it’s not right next to the entrance either. Give yourself time to get there without feeling rushed.

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Wristbands, Entry, and the No-Reentry Reality

When you enter the tournament grounds with a general admission ticket, you’ll receive a concert wristband. Hospitality ticket holders receive theirs when they arrive at their suite.

One thing that catches people off guard every year: there is no re-entry. Once you leave the grounds, that’s it for the day. This is not the event where you “just run back to the car real quick.”

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Chairs, Blankets, and Getting Comfortable

Chairs and blankets are allowed, but only in a designated area. This is not a free-for-all lawn situation, so don’t assume you can set up wherever you want and camp out indefinitely.

If comfort is a priority, arrive earlier, scope things out, and be flexible.

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Food, Drinks, and Expectations

Food and drinks are available during the concerts at concession stands. Pricing is what you’d expect at a major sporting event, so it helps to mentally prepare for that part before you’re hungry and annoyed.

Hydrating before the concert starts is also a good idea. The desert does not care that the sun is going down.

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Parking, Shuttles, and Getting Out Without Losing Your Cool

General parking is in the P Lot, accessed from the southbound side of Jefferson Street, across from The Hideaway Golf Club between Avenue 52 and Avenue 54.

• Daily parking: $25
• Shuttles: Run between the parking lot and tournament entrance
• Rideshare: Drops off in the P Lot, then you follow shuttle instructions

Even if you’re mainly going for the concert, you still need to factor in parking, shuttles, and walking time. This is not a pull-up-and-hop-out situation.

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ADA Seating

ADA seating is available within the concert venue. If you need specific accommodations, it’s worth checking the tournament’s accessibility details ahead of time so you’re not sorting it out on-site.

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Tips That Actually Help

• Grab your wristband early. One less thing to think about later.
• Arrive around 4:00 p.m. if the concert is your main reason for going.
• Eat something real. Festival logic applies here too.
• Don’t leave unless you mean it. No re-entry means no second chances.

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Related Guides

• How to Have the Best Day at The American Express (Even If You Don’t Care About Golf)
• The American Express hub

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Note: Concert start times depend on when golf finishes, so things can shift slightly. Always check tournament updates the day you attend.