As a new addition to Huntsville’s growing metropolis, The Orion Amphitheater opened in May of 2022 with The First Waltz, which featured performances by some famous musicians with deep Alabama roots. Jason Isbell and the 400 Unit, Emmylou Harris, Waxahatchee, and John Paul White were some of the acts to take the stage.
Built by Huntsville locals, this beautiful outdoor venue holds a capacity of 8,000 people. Inside, concertgoers will find a spacious setting, with tall columns and classic row seating. The entrance area has multiple locations for purchasing merch, beverages, and other concert-related commodities.
Orion encourages growth in music and in culture, and the first season’s offerings certainly delivered. Dave Matthews Band was the venue’s first ever sold out show, Stevie Nicks brought the spirit of Halloween, Chris Stapleton was a highlight for many country music fans, and Neil Degrasse Tyson even shared some science.
For me, with my first time visiting, I attended the Records & Retro event in October. The weather was perfect. The atmosphere, with music in the air, matched it. The vendors, who were kind and helpful, offered a variety of items for purchase, and I even bought a pair of shoes to take home with me.
One thing that helps makes The Orion Amphitheater truly special is its Apollo Park, which is an outdoor area for people to enjoy local food and drinks. The venue promotes recycled and reusable containers. For anyone who is new to the whole food-truck scene, check out Apollo Park. It’s a place you’ll likely revisit.
And speaking of revisiting, Orion is slowly rolling out its new season. So far, concert fans can expect to see, among others, Lauren Daigle, Robert Plant & Alison Krauss, Koe Wetzel, Anthony Hamilton, For King & Country, James Taylor, Phish, and Billy Strings.
For those who might be looking for something a little different, Orion also has plans for foodies, with events with chefs and also a monthly “Sip & Stroll.”
The Orion Amphitheater is conveniently located in the MidCity District, near Topgolf, Dave & Buster’s, and Trader Joe’s.
Check out a show. Enjoy an event. I definitely look forward to being back at Orion soon.