Venue Guide: Xfinity Theatre – Hartford, CT

Xfinity Theatre History

Situated on the outskirts of Hartford, Connecticut, the Xfinity Theatre is one of the largest amphitheaters in the country. Originally called the Meadows Music Theatre when it opened in 1995, the indoor/outdoor venue has gone through a series of names, including ctnow.com Meadows Music Theatre, the New England Dodge Music Center, Comcast Theatre and finally Xfinity Theatre, which was adopted in 2013. Today, it’s a buzzy and bustling summertime spot, hosting some of the biggest concerts and festivals on the East Coast.

Xfinity Theatre Performers

Before Michael Bolton officially christened the stage back in July 1995, Hootie & the Blowfish did a dry run in front of thousands of eager fans. The ‘90s chart-toppers also returned to the amphitheater in 2019. In between, the Xfinity Theatre has boasted an increasingly diverse lineup, including concerts by Lizzo, Brad Paisley, Santana, Alice in Chains and Willie Nelson — the latter who brought the Farm Aid Festival here in 2018. Beyoncé even used the venue to practice for her “I Am…” tour back in 2009.

Planning Your Visit to Xfinity Theatre

Conveniently located right off I-91, the Xfinity Theatre offers easy access to nearby downtown Hartford, where you can find an array of dining and drinking options for a pre- or post-concert refreshment. Go upscale with Italian specialties at Sorella or Salute, or dig into a succulent cut of steak at Max Downtown. The Blind Pig Pizza Co. will also satiate you and your fellow concertgoers with inventive creations, like BBQ pies with brisket (from neighboring eatery Bear’s Smokehouse Barbecue) or ranch-dressing topped pizzas, all which go down smooth with one of their unique cocktails.

Xfinity Theatre Frequently Asked Questions

What are the Xfinity Theatre parking options?

The Xfinity Theatre offers free parking for ticket holders but recommends arriving as early as possible to guarantee a spot. The lots open up to three hours before the gates open, which is typically 90 minutes before showtime. You can also purchase an E-Z Out Parking pass when you buy your tickets. This guarantees a spot in the parking lot that offers a dedicated exit with quick access to I-91 — this lot is located on the east side of Reverend Moody Overpass and Savitt Way intersection. Premier Parking is also available in the main lot at Savitt Way.

Does Xfinity Theatre serve food?

Yes. The Xfinity Theatre is packed with food, much of it celebrity-certified. Try tasty comfort foods like Questlove’s plant-based Cheesesteak, a signature Guy Fieri burger or a few of actor Danny Trejo’s So-Cal tacos. You’re also allowed to bring outside food and up to one gallon of bottled water into the venue. Food must be in a gallon-size plastic bag. Coolers are not allowed.

What are the seating options at Xfinity Theatre?

The unique layout of the Xfinity Theatre holds up to 7,500 fans inside and 22,500 more on the expansive lawn. That’s a total capacity of 30,000 when the entire venue opens up during the summer months. Get tickets here.

What are the Xfinity Theatre health and safety guidelines?

The venue is dedicated to ensuring the safety and security of all guests. All bags are subject to search prior to entering the venue. For a full list of rules and the latest on Xfinity Theatre’s safety guidelines, check here or contact the box office at (860) 548-7370.

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