Blossom Music Center guide: What to know before going this summer

Blossom Music Center's summer concert season is in full swing, which means a refresher on the ins and outs of the music venue is in order.

Dozens of artists will perform at the outdoor music center this summer, though there is always the possibility of additional concerts. The genres on stage will range from country to rock to modern pop.

The decision to see an artist or band at Blossom creates a host of important questions: What are the venue's COVID-19 policies? Do their vendors accept cash? Where should we eat beforehand? Luckily, the answers to those and more questions are below.

Blossom eats:Fuel up at these 9 nearby restaurants before concerts at Blossom Music Center

Who's playing at Blossom tonight?Here's the full summer schedule

After multiple attempts, Live Nation could not be reached to verify the following information.

This summer, masking, testing and vaccination requirements vary according to each concert. Live Nation advises fans to check the venue's website for details on their specific event close to show day as protocols are subject to change based on the latest local guidelines.

Health and safety:What to know about COVID-19 protocols at Blossom Music Center 2023

The key to a good experience at Blossom Music Center is to arrive early, whether that be in your own car or using ride-sharing apps like Uber or Lyft. We’re not talking 30 minutes or an hour early: It's best for concertgoers to arrive at least two hours before showtime so they have adequate time to park and walk to the amphitheater.

The main entrance to Blossom, off Steels Corners Road, is what most people use to get in and out of the music venue, but the entrance off Northampton Road also is an option. Those dropping off a guest should use the Steels Corners entrance and stay in the far-right lane when arriving. Parking staff will direct drivers to the designated drop-off area at O’Neil Road.

Attendees using an Uber or Lyft should notify parking attendants so they can be directed to Blossom's designated Uber/Lyft area. When using these applications to get picked up, ensure the driver arrives no later than 9 p.m. (about two hours before most concerts end) so they can be directed to the pickup area in parking Lot B. Drivers who arrive later than 9 p.m. will have to wait on Steels Corners until they are directed by the sheriff's department to grass Lot 4.

The first of Blossom's two parking locations is a grassy area that requires a short walk to the amphitheater; the other is a paved lot recommended for older attendees and people with disabilities. Parking passes are available for purchase until 10 days prior to each show.

A good portion of events, no matter how inherently thrilling, are made tedious on an empty stomach — and concerts are no exception.

Blossom eats:Fuel up at these 9 nearby restaurants before concerts at Blossom Music Center

The music venue's summer concert series often has last-minute additions, so be sure to check out Blossom Music Venue's concert schedule regularly.

Who's playing at Blossom tonight?:Here's the full summer schedule

All events will be Mobile Entry, meaning concertgoers will use their mobile device to gain access to the event. Tickets will not be emailed or available for print. Tickets for previously scheduled shows where buyers selected "print at home" or "mail" will be honored accordingly.

Tickets purchased for a group or individuals arriving separately will need to be transferred using the Live Nation app. This should be done before arriving at the event. For step-by-step instructions on how to access your mobile ticket and transfer tickets, visit the mobile ticketing section of Blossom's website.

No, all points of sale at Blossom will only accept credit, debit or mobile pay (such as Apple Pay or Google Pay).

Concertgoers will need to put their belongings in clear plastic, vinyl or PVC bags that are no larger than 12-by-6-by-12 inches or small clutch bags no larger than 4.5-by-6.5 inches.

Permitted:

Not permitted:

Contact Beacon Journal reporter Tawney Beans at [email protected] and on Twitter @TawneyBeans.