Riverbend Music Center Rules
# Comprehensive Guide to Rules and Policies at Riverbend Music Center Welcome to Riverbend Music Center, located at 6295 Kellogg Avenue, Cincinnati, Ohio 45230, United States. This outdoor amphitheater, known for hosting major concerts and events, prioritizes the safety, comfort, and enjoyment of all guests. Understanding the venue’s rules and policies is essential for a smooth experience. This in-depth guide covers key policies, drawing from official venue information to help you prepare. Policies can vary by event, so always check the specific event page on the official website for updates. Remember, violations may result in denial of entry, ejection without refund, or legal consequences.
Accessibility
Riverbend Music Center is committed to providing an inclusive environment for guests with disabilities, fully complying with ADA regulations. The venue features accessible entrances at the main gates, equipped with ramps and elevators where necessary for easy navigation. Accessible seating is available in designated ADA sections, including options for hearing-impaired and visually-impaired patrons. To secure these seats, specify your needs during ticket purchase via Ticketmaster.com or the venue box office. Each ADA ticket allows for one to three companions, allocated on a best-available basis. Chairs in ADA areas are designed for comfort, measuring 33.5 inches tall, 18 inches wide, and 17 inches deep. If you arrive without an ADA ticket but require assistance, visit the Customer Service booth near the main gate for reseating. Additional accommodations include sign language interpretation, available upon request at least three weeks in advance by emailing [email protected], subject to interpreter availability. Accessible parking is provided in designated lots close to the entrances; display a valid handicap placard or license plate. Strollers are permitted for families, and a Family Zone on the west side of the lawn offers a no-alcohol area for a more relaxed atmosphere. For mobility challenges, note that the venue is rain-or-shine, with pavilion seats covered but lawn areas exposed; ponchos are recommended. If you have questions, contact the venue at 513-232-5882 for personalized assistance. These measures ensure that all guests, regardless of ability, can fully enjoy performances.
Animals & Service Dogs
To maintain a safe and controlled environment, Riverbend Music Center strictly prohibits pets and other animals from all events. However, service animals as defined under ADA regulations are welcome and permitted throughout the venue, including in seating areas and concessions. Service animals must be under the handler’s control at all times, typically on a leash or harness, and should not disrupt other guests. Emotional support animals, therapy animals, or pets do not qualify as service animals and are not allowed. Upon entry, security may ask about the animal’s tasks to verify its status, but they cannot require documentation or demonstration. Handlers are responsible for the animal’s behavior and cleanup; any issues could lead to removal. This policy aligns with federal guidelines to accommodate those with disabilities while ensuring the venue remains pet-free for allergy, safety, and hygiene reasons. If planning to bring a service animal, inform the venue in advance for any special arrangements, especially in ADA seating areas.
Age Requirements
Riverbend Music Center hosts all-ages events unless otherwise specified on the event page. Children under 5 years old are admitted free to lawn seating when accompanied by a paying adult, making it family-friendly for general admission areas. For pavilion seating, all guests aged 2 and older must have a valid ticket; children under 2 can sit on a ticket holder’s lap without a separate ticket, except for Cincinnati Symphony Orchestra events which may have different rules. Minors must be supervised by an adult at all times. Alcohol policies are strictly enforced: no one under 21 can purchase, possess, or consume alcohol, with ID checks at every transaction. Valid IDs include horizontal U.S. driver’s licenses, military IDs, or passports; vertical or expired IDs are not accepted. Underage violations can result in ejection, citation, or arrest. Parents should note that some concerts may feature mature content, so discretion is advised. The Family Zone provides a calmer space for younger attendees.
Bag Policy
For enhanced security and faster entry, Riverbend Music Center implements a strict clear bag policy. Permitted bags include clear plastic, vinyl, or PVC bags no larger than 12″ x 12″ x 6″ (patterns or tints that obscure visibility are prohibited) and small clutch purses up to 6″ x 9″ (which don’t need to be clear). Exceptions are made for medically necessary bags and diaper bags, which must be accompanied by the user and are subject to thorough search. Soft-sided coolers, collapsible and no larger than 12″ x 12″ x 6″, are allowed if they contain only food, beverages, and loose ice (no ice packs or rigid frames). Bags from official VIP merchandise packages are permitted after security screening, even if they don’t meet standard guidelines. Non-compliant bags will result in denial of entry; items can be returned to vehicles, but the venue doesn’t store belongings. This policy minimizes delays at gates and enhances safety by allowing quick visual inspections.
Entry and Security
Entry at Riverbend Music Center is designed for efficiency and safety, with all guests subject to metal-detector screening via magnetometers, visual inspections, and bag checks. Gates open approximately one hour before events, and lining up is allowed up to one hour prior. There is a no re-entry policy – once you leave, you cannot return, so plan accordingly for items like forgotten belongings. Security personnel have discretion to deny entry for any reason, including intoxication or prohibited items. Tailgating is banned in parking lots, including alcohol consumption, grilling, or games that obstruct traffic. Guest conduct is monitored; unruly behavior, profanity, or violations can lead to ejection without refund. In inclement weather, events proceed rain or shine, with no refunds for exposure on the lawn.
Food, Drink & Alcohol
Guests may bring limited outside food and non-alcoholic beverages to enhance affordability. Up to four factory-sealed plastic bottles (33.8 oz each, unfrozen) are allowed per person; some events require pouring into cups – check the event page. Empty squeezable water bottles can be filled at on-site stations. Food must fit within bag policy limits, often in clear bags or soft coolers. Canned or glass containers are prohibited. On-site concessions offer diverse options like beer, mixed drinks, Skyline Chili, and Graeter’s ice cream. Alcohol is available for purchase by those 21+ with valid ID, limited to two drinks per transaction, and sales end 30 minutes before the show concludes. Bringing alcohol is illegal and forbidden. Intoxicated guests may be denied entry or ejected.
Payment Options
Riverbend Music Center accommodates various payment methods for convenience. At concessions, cash, credit/debit cards, Apple Pay, and Google Pay are accepted; ATMs are available inside the venue for cash needs. For tickets, the box office charges no fees for cash purchases but adds $2 per ticket for card payments. Will Call requires photo ID and the purchasing credit card. Digital tickets via Ticketmaster are encouraged; avoid secondary sellers to prevent issues. Mobile entry is seamless with charged devices and secure apps.
Photography and Recording
To respect artists’ rights and guest experiences, professional photography and recording are restricted. Prohibited items include cameras with detachable lenses, GoPros, audio/video devices, and iPads/tablets. Small personal cameras that fit in a shirt pocket are allowed for snapshots. Selfie sticks are banned. Policies may tighten for specific tours, so check event details.
Prohibited Items
A extensive list of prohibited items ensures safety. This includes weapons, fireworks, laser pointers, aerosols, glass/metal containers, hard coolers, masks, inflatables, musical instruments, spiked jewelry, posters larger than 8.5″ x 11″, glow items, club colors, and any item deemed unsafe by management. Chairs must not exceed 12″ off the ground or have canopies.
Smoking Policy
Smoking, including e-cigarettes and vaping, is prohibited indoors, in restrooms, pavilions, VIP areas, and lines. Designated outdoor smoking areas may be available; check with staff. This promotes a healthier environment for all.