Red Rocks Amphitheatre, a legendary Colorado venue famed for its breathtaking natural acoustics and stunning rock formations, is a must-visit for music lovers. Attending a concert at Red Rocks is an unforgettable experience, but like many venues, Red Rocks has rules in place to ensure the safety and enjoyment of all guests. One policy in particular that has recently caught the attention of concert-goers is the updated bag policy. For the 2023 season and beyond, Red Rocks has implemented a new bag size restriction, leading to some discussion and questions among frequent visitors. Understanding the Red Rocks Bag Policy is crucial for a smooth and hassle-free entry, allowing you to focus on what truly matters: the music and the magical atmosphere.
Understanding the Red Rocks Amphitheatre Bag Policy
The updated red rocks bag policy specifies that bags are limited to a single pocket and must not exceed 13 inches in width, 15 inches in height, and 8 inches in depth. This change, implemented at the start of the 2023 season, is designed to enhance both security and efficiency at the venue entrances. According to Brian Kitts, the marketing and communications director for Denver Arts & Venues, the policy serves two primary purposes: streamlining the entry process and improving overall safety for everyone attending events at Red Rocks.
The reasoning behind the single-pocket rule is to expedite security checks. By reducing the number of pockets that security personnel need to inspect, entrance lines are expected to move more quickly. This also minimizes the opportunity for prohibited items to be inadvertently or intentionally brought into the venue. Kitts explained, “I think part of the issue is that we were seeing fans coming in with giant backpacks that were taking up room and taking up to several minutes to check.” This new red rocks bag policy aligns Red Rocks with other major Denver venues like Coors Field and Empower Field at Mile High, which already have similar one-pocket bag restrictions in place.
Despite the new restrictions on bag size at Red Rocks, attendees are still permitted to bring essential items. The venue allows visitors to bring food, empty water bottles for refill at water stations, hydration backpacks such as Camelbaks, small fanny packs, purses, and soft, six-pack-sized coolers. These allowances aim to balance security needs with visitor convenience.
Fan Reactions to the New Bag Policy at Red Rocks
While the intentions behind the red rocks bag policy are clear, some regular Red Rocks attendees have expressed mixed reactions. Ryan Keiffer, a local resident who has been going to concerts at Red Rocks since the 1980s, experienced the new policy firsthand at a Billy Strings concert. Contrary to the expectation of faster entry lines, Keiffer found the opposite. “Even with this new policy, it was the longest line I’ve ever seen to get in, in all of the years, in the hundreds of shows I have been to,” Keiffer stated.
Keiffer suggests that if the goal is truly to shorten entrance lines, Red Rocks management might consider increasing staffing levels rather than restricting bag sizes. He appreciated the previous, more lenient policies at Red Rocks, noting, “One of the things that was great about [Red Rocks] is that they were quite understanding with their policies.” He highlights the challenge of bringing necessary items, like extra layers for unpredictable Colorado weather, under the new bag constraints. “You could bring food in, and you can still do some of those things, although I don’t know how you could possibly do that with the new bag policy,” he questioned.
Recounting his experience at the Billy Strings concert, Keiffer described bringing a bag with a main pocket and a flap with a smaller pocket, which was questioned by another concert-goer in line. To avoid potential issues, Keiffer opted to switch to a clear NFL bag to ensure entry, having to wear extra clothing items he hadn’t intended to wear.
Red Rocks Bag Policy Compared to Stadiums
Keiffer drew a comparison between the red rocks bag policy and the bag policies at NFL stadiums like Empower Field at Mile High. While Empower Field also has strict bag rules, limiting guests to clear totes, gallon zip-lock bags, and small purses, Keiffer finds the stadium policy more justifiable. He reasoned, “You’re not going to need seasons’ worth of clothes at a game at Mile High, and you can seek cover if you get caught in a downpour,” suggesting that the needs of concert-goers at an outdoor venue like Red Rocks are different. “So a small-bag policy at a place like an NFL stadium is not as restrictive as a small-bag policy at a place like Red Rocks,” he concluded.
However, Kitts offers a different perspective, emphasizing the adaptability of Coloradans. “Coloradans are pretty adept at layering, and we’ve got thousands of people there every night who make it into the venue and are able to stay warm or cool without bringing in giant bags full of clothes,” Kitts pointed out. This suggests that venue management believes concert-goers can adjust to the new red rocks bag policy without significant inconvenience.
Navigating the Red Rocks Amphitheatre Bag Policy Effectively
To ensure a smooth entry into Red Rocks Amphitheatre, it’s essential to be well-prepared and understand the current red rocks bag policy. Opt for a single-pocket bag that adheres to the size restrictions (13″ x 15″ x 8″). Consider using clear bags to further expedite the security process. For carrying essential items, utilize permitted options like fanny packs, small purses, or soft coolers. Take advantage of layering clothing to manage changing weather conditions, rather than relying on large bags for extra garments.
Always check the official Red Rocks Amphitheatre website before attending an event for the most up-to-date information on permitted and prohibited items, as policies can be subject to change. You can find detailed information about the red rocks bag policy and other venue guidelines at Red Rocks Permitted & Prohibited Items. Staying informed will help you comply with the rules, minimize delays, and fully enjoy your Red Rocks concert experience.
