Live Nation has implemented a controversial new policy banning personal lawn chairs at most of their outdoor concert venues, while simultaneously offering to rent their own chairs for $15 per event.
Live Nation reports record profits and has prohibited - or plans to prohibit - outside chairs at 31 of their 37 amphitheaters across the country. The remaining venues that still permit personal chairs enforce strict requirements, mandating seat bottoms be no higher than nine inches off the ground.
While Live Nation claims the ban serves as a security measure and aims to reduce entry wait times, many concertgoers view it as a profit-driven decision. The policy has sparked particular outrage at venues like the Saratoga Performing Arts Center (SPAC), where attendees have traditionally brought their own seating.
"Concertgoers already have to pay inflated prices for tickets, parking, food, and drinks — now $15 for a lawn chair?" said New York Congressman Paul Tonko on social media platform X, calling for action against what he termed "corporate greed."
SPAC officials clarified that the chair ban only applies to Live Nation events, not SPAC-produced shows. The venue will continue allowing personal lawn chairs, blankets, and outside food and beverages at their own performances.
This latest controversy comes as Live Nation and its subsidiary Ticketmaster face an antitrust lawsuit from the Department of Justice and 39 states plus the District of Columbia. The legal action seeks to break up the entertainment conglomerate, citing monopolistic practices and anti-competitive behavior.
The chair rental policy adds to mounting criticism of Live Nation's business practices, with many concertgoers calling for boycotts and demanding greater consumer protections in the live entertainment industry.