Quick Answer
You are allowed to bring food and unopened non-alcoholic beverages into the Virginia Beach Amphitheater for most events. All bags and coolers will be inspected at the entrance. Outside alcohol and glass containers are not permitted.
What types of food and drink can you bring to the Virginia Beach Amphitheater?
The Virginia Beach Amphitheater allows concertgoers to bring in food and non-alcoholic drinks to most shows. Acceptable items include:
- Factory sealed water and soda bottles (must be unopened)
- Juice boxes
- Snacks like chips, cookies, candy, granola bars
- Fruit such as apples, oranges, bananas
- Sandwiches, wraps, salads
- Picnic items like cheese, crackers, veggies and dip
You can bring food and drinks in small coolers or picnic baskets. Large hard-sided coolers are not permitted. All food containers will be inspected at the entrance.
What food and drinks are prohibited?
While outside food and non-alcoholic drinks are allowed, there are some restrictions on what you can bring into the amphitheater:
- No outside alcohol – All alcohol must be purchased at the venue
- No glass bottles or containers
- No sodas or juices in cans (aluminum bottles/cans are OK)
- No thermoses or large hard-sided coolers
- No weapons or illegal substances
Security will confiscate any restricted items at the entrance. Unsealed food and beverage containers may also be discarded.
Are there any venue restaurants or food stands?
Yes, the Virginia Beach Amphitheater offers a variety of food and drink options inside the venue:
- Sandwich stands
- Pizza and burger concession stands
- Nachos, pretzels, popcorn
- Funnel cakes, ice cream, candy
- Beer, wine, and cocktail bars
Prices are comparable to major sporting events and concerts. Credit cards are accepted at most locations.
There are also restaurants located at the Virginia Beach Oceanfront near the amphitheater including Back Bay Brewing, Waterman’s Surfside Grille, and Mahi Mah’s.
Can you take alcohol purchased inside the venue out to the lawn?
Yes, patrons 21 and over can take beer, wine, and cocktails purchased inside the amphitheater out to the lawn area. Wristbands are provided at the time of purchase to identify attendees who are of legal drinking age.
Outside alcohol is still prohibited and will be confiscated at the entrance.
Are there any special rules for premier ticket holders?
The Virginia Beach Amphitheater offers premier tickets and suites that include access to indoor premium lounges. These ticket holders can enjoy exclusive bars, restrooms, seating areas and food options.
Premier ticket holders may take unlimited food and beverages from the premium lounges out to their premium seats. No outside food or drinks are allowed in the premium lounge areas.
Conclusion
The Virginia Beach Amphitheater allows concertgoers to bring their own food and non-alcoholic drinks to most events. Acceptable items include water, juice, soda, snacks, fruit, sandwiches and salads. All outside alcohol and glass containers are prohibited. Premier ticket holders have access to exclusive indoor lounges with premium food and drinks. Understanding the venue’s food and drink policy allows patrons to plan their picnic provisions accordingly and have the best concert experience.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I bring a cooler or picnic basket?
Yes, small personal coolers and picnic baskets are permitted. Large hard-sided coolers are not allowed. Coolers and bags will be inspected at the entrance.
What about infant food and formula?
Infant food/formula and juice boxes are permitted at the Virginia Beach Amphitheater. You may bring empty bottles/sippy cups and fill them with water once inside the venue. All bags and items will be checked at the entrance.
Can I bring my own water bottle?
Empty reusable water bottles are allowed. You can fill them up once inside the amphitheater. Disposable plastic water bottles must be factory sealed to be permitted.
Are there vegetarian and vegan food options available inside?
Yes, vegetarian and vegan options are available at venue concession stands. Items include veggie burgers, salads, cheese pizza, french fries, nachos and more. Gluten-free choices are limited. Premier ticket holders also have vegetarian dishes in the premium lounges.
What kind of bags are allowed?
Small purses, drawstring bags and tote bags are permitted. Backpacks and bags larger than 14″ x 14″ x 6″ are prohibited. All bags will be inspected at entry. Consider a clear plastic bag for quicker entry.
Can I bring in food if I have medical dietary needs?
Guests with medical dietary requirements may bring in outside food in a small cooler or bag. Tags are available at Guest Services to identify medical needs. Information about ingredients should be available if asked during inspection.
Are tailgating and grilling allowed in the parking lots?
Tailgating is prohibited in the Virginia Beach Amphitheater parking lots. Grilling and open flames are not allowed on site. Pre-concert picnics should be prepared beforehand and carried into the venue.
Can I bring concessions back to my car after the show?
No, you cannot remove food or drinks purchased inside the amphitheater to consume later. All concessions must be finished before exiting the venue.
Policies at Other Local Venues
Veterans United Home Loans Amphitheater
- Allows factory sealed bottles of water and soft drinks
- Small snack items permitted – no meals
- Alcohol prohibited
- Bags cannot exceed 16″ x 16″ x 8″
Oceanfront Concert Stage at Fort Story
- Outside food and drinks permitted (no alcohol)
- Glass bottles or containers prohibited
- Small bags, coolers, blankets allowed
- Grilling and tailgating permitted in surrounding parking lots
Williamsburg Live at Jiffy Lube Live
- No outside food or beverages allowed
- Sealed bottles of water permitted – limit 2 per person
- Bags larger than 5″ x 8″ prohibited
- All bags subject to search
Venue | Outside Food | Outside Drink | Alcohol Allowed |
---|---|---|---|
Virginia Beach Amphitheater | Yes | Non-alcoholic | No |
Veterans United Home Loans Amphitheater | Limited snacks | Sealed bottles | No |
Oceanfront Concert Stage | Yes | Non-alcoholic | No |
Jiffy Lube Live | No | 2 sealed waters | Yes |
The Bottom Line
The Virginia Beach Amphitheater allows patrons to bring their own food and non-alcoholic beverages to most concerts and events. Factory sealed drinks, snacks, fruit, sandwiches are permitted in reasonable quantities. All bags and coolers are inspected at entry. This policy provides a cost-effective way for fans to enjoy shows without having to buy all concessions at the venue. Understanding what is allowed in advance helps make the security process quick and easy. Patrons should consider the unique food policies at each regional concert venue when preparing provisions for shows. Contact the box office with any specific questions on permitted items before heading to an event.