This year marks the 75th anniversary of concerts at one of America’s most celebrated venues — Red Rocks Amphitheatre in Morrison, Colorado, just outside Denver. Carved into the earth and perched at 6,450 feet above sea level, Red Rocks is renowned as the world’s only naturally occurring, acoustically exceptional amphitheatre. The stage is framed by two towering sandstone formations known as Ship Rock and Creation Rock.
The amphitheatre first opened to the public in the summer of 1941 and sits on terrain that preserves impressions of plants and animals from roughly 250 million years ago. Fossil fragments discovered in the area include remains from marine reptiles and other prehistoric species, and nearby sites reveal dinosaur footprints that speak to the region’s deep natural history.
Over the decades Red Rocks has hosted countless memorable performances, including legendary acts such as The Beatles. To celebrate the 75th anniversary, this summer’s concert lineup highlights a mix of classic and contemporary artists. Featured performances include Steely Dan with Steve Winwood (June 13), Devotchka with the Colorado Symphony (June 16), Flight of the Conchords (July 5), Greensky Bluegrass with Leftover Salmon (July 23), Chris Botti & Joshua Bell with the Colorado Symphony (July 24), the Jerry Garcia Symphonic Celebration (Aug. 1), Nathaniel Rateliff & The Night Sweats (Aug. 21), Jackson Browne (Aug. 22) and Bonnie Raitt (Sept. 8).
For generations, Red Rocks has combined dramatic geology with outstanding sound to create an unforgettable live-music experience. Whether attending a full-scale orchestral performance, a rock concert or a unique collaboration, audiences come for both the music and the remarkable natural setting that defines this historic venue.