Live Nation’s new Rogers Stadium is now open in Toronto
It was a sprint to the finish, but Live Nation’s new venue, Rogers Stadium, was completed on time (just nine months!) in YZD, the space formerly known as Downsview Park.
The temporary 50,000-person structure will be in operation for five years after which its viability will be re-evaluated for future use. Given the outdoor venue needs of Toronto, the GTA, and Southern Ontario, I can’t imagine NOT succeeding.
The first gig will be on Sunday (June 29) with K-pop band Stray Kids. Thirteen other shows are scheduled for the summer:
- Coldplay: July 7, 8, 11, 12
- Blackpink: July 22, 23
- Chris Brown: August 19, 20
- Oasis: August 24, 25
- System of a Down, Deftones, and special guests: September 3, 5
- Hozier: September 10
Some highlights:
- The cost? Live Nation isn’t saying, but it’s worth a lot.
- The main entrance has a large plaza for merch stalls, food, and a small stage.
- 18,000 people can be accommodated on the “floor” with another 32,000 in the grandstands.
- 600 bathrooms with flush toilets
- The grandstands are modular and will be partially disassembled and stored during the winter.
- The venue is totally cashless. Bring your debit and credit cards.
- The TTC and GO Transit will provide free rides home after all shows. The TTC stations are Sheppard West, Downsview Park, and Wilson. GO operates out of Downsview Park. Extra service will be added on the nights of shows.
- There are 11,000 parking spots available in TTC/GO commuter lots a short subway trip away.
- The whole place is wired with robust 5G service. (The stadium will have the equivalent service of 14 towers.)
- If you have a Rogers phone, you’ll be able to use the Rogers Beyond the Seat entrance. Rogers will also supply video recaps of each show to subscribers.
- It’s expected to generate between $80 and 100 million for the local economy.
- You may recognize the voice that directs you in and around the venue. I’ll just leave it at that.
One last thing. This is Rogers STADIUM north of downtown. Don’t end up at the Rogers CENTRE. Live Nation knows until everyone gets in the habit, some people are going to be…confused.
INSTAGRAM: @Rogers_Stadium
FACEBOOK: @RogersStadium
X: @Rogers_Stadium
