When Pollstar — a trade publication that researches + covers the concert industry — released its concert market rankings for 2025, Lexington made the top 100 list coming in at 53 (when the inaugural list came out based on 2020-2021 data, we were 75th).

The data was reported by concert promoters, venues, booking agents, and artist managers. Here are some fast facts from Lexington’s latest ranking:

Reported Gross $35.9 million
Reported tickets sold 537,848
Reported Shows 194
Average Ticket Price $ 66.91
Designated Market Area Rank 63

Now let’s rock and roll into Lexington’s exciting music scene:

🎤 Rupp Arena, 430 W. Vine St. | Capacity 23,500 | This is still where the biggest names come to town — from Mumford & Sons to Reba McEntire, you name it + Rupp has probably hosted them.

🎤 Lexington Opera House, 401 W. Short St. | Capacity 1,000 | While it specializes in hosting a lot of musicals + theater, the Lexington Opera House has hosted the likes of Elle King and The Black Jacket Symphony.

🎤 Manchester Music Hall, 899 Manchester St. | Capacity 1,100 | This Distillery District staple hosts everyone from Walker Montgomery to Black Stone Cherry.

🎤 The Burl, 375 Thompson Rd. | Capacity 300 inside, 1,500 outside | A Distillery District favorite, it hosts local acts such as The Wooks + bigger names like Winona Judd and Houndmouth.

Reader recommendations:

Debbie N. said Proud Mary’s BBQ,
Jim R. said Henry Clay’s Public House,
Kathy R. said The Rackhouse Tavern at The Campbell House
Paul H. said Moondance Amphitheater, The Green Lantern, Al’s Bar, Pam Miller Downtown Art’s Center, Tee Dee’s Lounge, Tin Roof, Singletary Center for the Arts, Chevy Chase Inn