In its inaugural year, The Amp in Ballantyne hosted eight or nine events — this year, 27 shows are scheduled, with bookings already underway for 2026. When The Amp opened in 2023, it wasn’t just about live music — it was about reimagining what South Charlotte could become. Now, the outdoor venue is helping transform the area into a cultural destination by attracting new artists, hosting festivals, and offering outdoor fitness classes.

“As part of our planning with Ballantyne Reimagined, we saw an opportunity to meet a cultural demand in South Charlotte,” Christina Thigpen, SVP of Marketing and Communications at Northwood Office, told CLTtoday. “We didn’t want people to have to go Uptown for a great concert.”

More than 300,000 cubic yards of dirt were moved when The Amp was constructed. | Photo via The Amp

Speaking of great concerts... The Amp recently announced JJ Gray and Mofro are returning to the venue Saturday, Oct. 4. Tickets go on sale Friday, July 11 at 10 a.m. Other performers this season include Ben Rector, Ziggy Marley and Burning Spear, and Bruce Hornsby & the Noisemakers with the Charlotte Symphony Orchestra.

With a 5,000-person capacity, tiered lawn seating, and a striking design inspired by venues like the Dillon Amphitheater in Colorado, there's not a bad seat in the house at The Amp.

Ben Rector drew a huge crowd during his show in October 2024. | Photo via The Amp

Food for thought: The Amp is a rare one-stop shop, allowing guests to park, grab dinner at The Bowl at Ballantyne, go to a show, and even stay in a hotel — all within walking distance.

Will the venue ever host large-scale events similar to Lovin' Life Musical Festival? "I would just say keep your eye on the announcement calendar," said Micah Davidson, president of Midwood Entertainment and director of operations at The Amp.