Hot Summer Nights

The event called Hot Summer Nights, often affectionately referred to by locals and repeat attendees as simply ‘Hot Summer Nights’ or ‘The Amp’s Summer Concerts,’ is a vibrant and free outdoor concert series held at the Gerald R. Ford Amphitheater in Vail, Colorado. This annual spectacle is tailored for a diverse audience, including families, music enthusiasts, and anyone who appreciates the beauty of live performances against the stunning backdrop of the Rocky Mountains.

Hot Summer Nights is designed for everyone who loves music, whether you are a longtime resident of Vail or just visiting. The target audience includes families who can enjoy a night out together, music lovers eager to discover new artists and revisit old favorites, and foodies who can indulge in the culinary delights offered by the various vendors on site. The event also attracts a blend of locals and tourists, all united by their passion for live music and the unique mountain setting.

The 2025 Hot Summer Nights concert series kicks off on June 17 and continues through select nights until the end of July. The schedule includes performances by BERTHA: Grateful Drag on June 17, Maggie Rose on June 24, and Those Who Roam on July 8, among others. Each concert begins at 6:30 PM, allowing attendees to soak in the evening sun and enjoy the cool mountain breeze as the stars begin to appear.

The venue, Gerald R. Ford Amphitheater, is nestled in the heart of Vail, Colorado, offering breathtaking views of the surrounding mountains. To get there, attendees can fly into the Eagle County Regional Airport, which is conveniently located about 30 miles west of Vail. Alternatively, they can drive via I-70, one of the major highways that connect Vail to other parts of Colorado. Once in Vail, free parking is available, along with a golf cart shuttle service to and from the amphitheater, making the experience hassle-free from start to finish.

The setting of the Gerald R. Ford Amphitheater is one of its most compelling features. The amphitheater boasts two bars and five culinary stations, providing a wide range of dining options. The general admission lawn seating area allows for a relaxed and communal atmosphere, while covered seats offer a more defined viewing experience. The natural beauty of the venue, with its expansive mountain vistas and crisp Colorado air, enhances every performance.

Attending Hot Summer Nights is an experience unlike any other. The series offers a unique blend of music genres, from the nostalgic sounds of BERTHA: Grateful Drag to the contemporary appeal of Maggie Rose. The free admission makes it accessible to everyone, fostering a community-driven atmosphere where people from all walks of life come together to celebrate music and the beauty of the outdoors.

The signature experience of Hot Summer Nights lies in its ability to combine exceptional live music with the surreal backdrop of the Rocky Mountains. As the sun sets, the stage lights up, and the energy of the crowd becomes palpable. The event is not just about the music; it is about the entire experience—dancing under the stars, savoring local cuisine, and enjoying the company of friends and family in one of the most stunning natural settings in the country.

In addition to the main concert series, the broader summer concert lineup at the Gerald R. Ford Amphitheater includes other notable events such as performances by Jason Bonham’s Led Zeppelin Evening, The String Cheese Incident, Melissa Etheridge, and The Black Crowes. These events further enrich the summer music scene in Vail, making it a destination that music lovers cannot miss.

Overall, Hot Summer Nights at the Gerald R. Ford Amphitheater is a must-attend event for anyone who loves music, nature, and community. It is a celebration of summer, of music, and of the beautiful mountain setting that Vail has to offer, making it an unforgettable experience for all who attend.