The History of Red Rocks Amphitheater

Red Rocks Amphitheatre is an open-air concert venue located in Morrison, Colorado, a suburb of Denver. The venue is located in a natural amphitheater formed by red sandstone cliffs and is known for its excellent acoustics and stunning natural surroundings.

Red Rocks Amphitheatre has a long and rich history. It was initially used by the Ute Native American tribe for religious ceremonies and later became a popular tourist attraction in the late 19th and early 20th centuries. In 1906, the venue was formally established as a park and concert venue, and it has since played host to a wide range of events, including concerts, plays, and dance performances.

Red Rocks Amphitheater was created through the efforts of John Brisben Walker, a Colorado businessman and publisher who purchased the land in 1906 and began hosting concerts there. The first recorded concert at Red Rocks took place in 1906, and in 1927, the venue officially opened as an amphitheater with a performance by the Denver Symphony Orchestra.

Throughout its history, Red Rocks Amphitheatre has welcomed a wide range of performers, including many notable musicians and bands. Some of the artists who have played at Red Rocks Amphitheatre include The Beatles, U2, The Grateful Dead, Bruce Springsteen, and Dave Matthews Band.

In 2015, Red Rocks Amphitheater was designated a National Historic Landmark.

Today, Red Rocks Amphitheatre continues to be a popular destination for concerts and other events, and it is widely recognized as one of the best outdoor concert venues in the world.

It goes without saying that our personal favorite Red Rocks event is the Reggae on The Rocks Festival. Reggae on the Rocks is an annual music festival held at the Red Rocks Amphitheatre. The festival has been a staple of the Colorado music scene since 1984, and has featured some of the biggest names in reggae and world music. Past performers include Burning Spear, and Steel Pulse, as well as more contemporary artists like Damian Marley and Rebelution. The festival is known for its laid-back atmosphere, and its beautiful location at the foot of the Rocky Mountains. Attendees can enjoy 1-2 full days of live music and dancing, surrounded by the stunning natural beauty of Red Rocks.