Live Nation has implemented a controversial policy banning personal lawn chairs at most of their concert venues, while simultaneously offering to rent their own chairs for $15 per event.

The ban affects 31 out of 37 Live Nation amphitheaters, with only six venues still allowing personal chairs - though these must have seat bottoms no higher than nine inches off the ground. The company claims this policy aims to improve security and speed up entry times.

The Saratoga Performing Arts Center (SPAC) clarified that this restriction only applies to Live Nation events, not SPAC-produced shows like the Saratoga Jazz Festival and performances by New York City Ballet and The Philadelphia Orchestra. These events continue to welcome personal lawn chairs, blankets, and outside food and beverages.

The policy has sparked significant backlash from concertgoers, who view it as another attempt to generate additional revenue on top of existing charges for parking, tickets, and concessions. Some fans are calling for boycotts of Live Nation events at SPAC and other venues.

This controversy comes as Live Nation and its subsidiary Ticketmaster face an ongoing antitrust lawsuit from the U.S. Department of Justice. The lawsuit alleges the companies have created an illegal monopoly that limits competition and inflates ticket prices. Recently updated, the suit now seeks damages for affected consumers.

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