The amphitheater at the fairgrounds along Interstate 5 in Ridgefield is in the middle of its first summer under the name of Cascades Amphitheater, and the new branding has brought in new concessions and amazing, memorable experiences.
With Creed traversing the nation on their "Summer of '99" tour featuring special guests Daughtry and Mammoth in Ridgefield, Portland Metro area music fans brought the spirit and energy of the Pacific Northwest to the Cascades Amphitheater.
Scott Stapp, frontman for the rock band Creed, consistently highlighted the energy he felt from the near full-capacity crowd during Creed's set.
As Creed, Daughtry and Mammoth rocked Ridgefield on Wednesday, Aug. 13, music fans will have numerous opportunities into October to experience the new offerings under the Cascades Amphitheater branding.
"The Cascades Amphitheater name celebrates the beauty and spirit of our region," said Sean O'Connell, Regional Vice President of Operations for Live Nation, in a statement to The Reflector. "This summer, we've added new concessions like Mosh Burger, Rebel Hen chicken tenders, and Ziggy's Magic Pizza, alongside returning favorites like Koko's Bavarian sausages and CVT Soft Serve. We're excited about our new ColdRush Shaved Ice, RIFFresher iced drinks, and iced Jolene Coffee from Red Hot Chili Peppers' Anthony Kiedis."
O'Connell added that the concertgoers' experience has been made easier to enjoy a full night out with $2 hot dogs, $5 beers, and snacks starting at $3.
"One of the biggest highlights is our brand new Backyard, an open-air hangout space with exclusive food, drinks, entertainment, and room to kick back before and during the show," O'Connell added.
The Backyard was on full display during the Creed concert featuring Daughtry and Mammoth on Aug. 13 as the open-air lounge brought people together with fun music from a live DJ, cornhole, numerous seating options, a bar and more. Before and even during the rocking music from inside the venue, the space serves as a relaxing spot and a calm getaway from the crowds.
"The Backyard is our summer tailgate brought inside the venue," O'Connell said. "It's a hangout where fans can kick back with a BBQ-inspired menu, specialty cocktails, local brews, and entertainment. It's designed with fan comfort and fun in mind, featuring lawn games, photo ops, air-conditioned private restrooms, and plenty of space to meet up with friends. The Backyard is the ultimate experience that celebrates the best of our summer season in the Pacific Northwest."
O'Connell said the amphitheater that opened in 2003 sets itself apart in the region by offering an open-air venue surrounded by natural beauty, with sightlines and acoustics built for unforgettable shows.
"We pair that with a commitment to making the night seamless and memorable for every fan," he stated. "The combination of location, amenities, and atmosphere sets us apart. Every upgrade we make, from premium seating with in-seat service to the all-new Backyard and more menu options, is designed to make the fan experience easy, fun, and uniquely Cascades. We want the community to feel proud to have this venue in their own backyard."
Access to the Backyard can be purchased with an upgrade by visiting cascadesamphitheater.com/upgrades. Upcoming shows at Cascades Amphitheater include Parker McCollum on Friday, Aug. 22, Pantera on Saturday, Aug. 23 and more through Oct. 1.
