Whitewater Amphitheater New Braunfels TX: 2026 Guide to Schedule, Tickets & Parking
The Whitewater Amphitheater is more than just a music venue; it is a legendary Texas experience nestled along the banks of the Guadalupe River in New Braunfels. As we move into 2026, this iconic open-air stage continues to draw thousands of fans who seek the perfect blend of Hill Country nature and world-class live performances. Whether you are floating the river by day or dancing under the stars by night, understanding the logistics of this unique venue is key to an unforgettable trip.
Whitewater Amphitheater has earned its reputation as one of the most beautiful concert settings in the United States, frequently appearing on “best of” lists for outdoor music. According to Visit New Braunfels, the city’s official tourism bureau, the amphitheater is a cornerstone of the region’s vibrant music scene, contributing to its status as a premier entertainment destination. In 2026, the venue maintains its commitment to high-production values while preserving the rustic, wild charm that defines the Texas Hill Country.
For those planning a visit this year, the Whitewater Rocks experience has evolved with new cashless systems, expanded VIP options, and a refined food and beverage program. This guide provides everything you need to know about the 2026 schedule, ticket pricing, parking hacks, and what to expect when you arrive at the gates.
2026 Whitewater Amphitheater Concert Schedule
The 2026 season at Whitewater Amphitheater is shaping up to be one of its most diverse yet, featuring a mix of country legends, alternative rock icons, and rising folk stars. Most shows are scheduled for weekend evenings, allowing visitors to spend their days on the river before heading to the arena.
Below is the currently confirmed 2026 schedule for Whitewater Amphitheater, with additional dates expected to be announced throughout the spring.
| Date | Artist / Event | Show Time | Expected Genre |
| Saturday, June 6, 2026 | Alabama – The Band | 7:30 PM | Country / Southern Rock |
| Saturday, July 11, 2026 | Randy Rogers Band | 7:30 PM | Texas Country |
| Saturday, July 25, 2026 | The Black Keys | 7:30 PM | Alternative / Blues Rock |
| Friday, August 21, 2026 | Hardy | 6:55 PM | Country / Rock |
Tickets for these events often sell out months in advance, particularly for high-profile acts like Alabama and The Black Keys. If you are planning a summer getaway, it is highly recommended to secure your passes as soon as they go on sale via the official Whitewater Rocks website.
What Makes Whitewater Amphitheater a Texas Icon?
The magic of Whitewater Amphitheater lies in its geography, situated exactly where the rugged terrain of the Hill Country meets the cool waters of the Guadalupe. Unlike traditional concrete stadiums, this venue uses the natural landscape to create an intimate atmosphere despite its significant capacity.
The venue’s industry-leading quality is backed by numerous accolades. The Academy of Country Music (ACM) has nominated Whitewater Amphitheater for multiple prestigious awards, including “Medium Capacity Venue of the Year” in 2018 and “Outdoor Venue of the Year” in 2022 and 2024. Furthermore, the venue has been ranked as the #4 Amphitheater in the World by Pollstar Magazine, reflecting its global standing in the live entertainment industry.
Acoustically, the venue is a marvel of nature, as the surrounding hills help to focus the sound towards the audience while minimizing echoes. This natural amplification allows for a crisp, clear audio experience whether you are in the front-row pit or lounging at the back of the general admission area.
Beyond the music, the venue serves as a hub for the New Braunfels community and a destination for travelers across the Lone Star State. It represents the “Texas lifestyle”—a combination of outdoor adventure, cold beverages, and loud, high-quality music shared with friends and family.
A History of Resilience: The Rebuilding of Whitewater
The history of Whitewater Amphitheater is marked by its incredible resilience against the elements of the Texas Hill Country. Since its opening in 2007, the venue has faced significant challenges, most notably during the catastrophic Blanco River floods of 2015.
During the Memorial Day floods of 2015, as reported by KVUE News and local hydrological records, the river flow exceeded 7,000 cubic feet per second, which effectively wiped out the original stage. However, the venue owners used this as an opportunity to innovate, constructing a “bigger and better” stage that was designed to better withstand the area’s volatile weather patterns.
In August 2015, shortly after the floods, the venue demonstrated its community spirit by hosting a benefit concert that raised over $3 million for flood victims, cementing its place as a vital institution in Central Texas. This history of rebuilding is why the venue now operates with such high safety standards and advanced drainage infrastructure in 2026.
Seating Chart and Viewing Areas Breakdown
Understanding the seating layout at Whitewater Amphitheater is crucial, as the experience varies significantly between the different ticket tiers. The venue has a total capacity of 5,600, with the vast majority of that being standing-room-only General Admission.
The general admission area is the heart of the venue, offering a high-energy environment where fans can congregate near the stage or find more space further back. However, for those looking for a bit more comfort or an elevated view, there are specialized seating options available.
| Section | Seating Type | Capacity | Best For |
| General Admission (GA) | Standing Room | 4,000+ | High energy, social atmosphere, budget-friendly |
| Left/Right Wing Seats | Elevated Reserved | Limited | Guaranteed seating, great views of the stage and river |
| Preferred Boxes | Group Box (12 people) | Select | Corporate groups, families, private service |
| VIP Skyboxes | Premium Elevated | Exclusive | Panoramic views, private bar access, luxury amenities |
It is important to note that the GA area is composed of rock and gravel, which can be uneven and difficult for some guests. According to the venue’s Frequently Asked Questions, blankets and chairs are strictly prohibited for safety reasons, so you should be prepared to stand for the duration of the performance.
The Wing Seats are highly coveted because they offer the only permanent seating with a clear line of sight to the stage. If you prefer not to stand for four to five hours, these tickets are well worth the additional investment.
2026 Parking and Transportation Logistics
Navigating the rural roads leading to Whitewater Amphitheater requires some foresight, especially during sold-out summer shows. In 2026, the venue has streamlined its parking process, but space remains the biggest challenge for attendees.
Whitewater Amphitheater operates two primary parking areas to accommodate its 5,600 guests. Both lots are strictly cashless and fill up rapidly, often within an hour of the gates opening.
| Lot Name | Location | Capacity | Best For |
| Whitewater Lot | On-site (Main Entrance) | Limited | ADA access, VIP guests, earliest arrivals |
| Cordova Lot | Directly across FM 306 | Primary | General Admission, motorcycles, pre-paid passes |
Essential Parking Rules for 2026: – Cashless Only: Payment must be made via credit card or Apple Pay; cash is not accepted at any lot. – Pricing: Standard vehicles cost $20 plus tax; motorcycles are charged $10 plus tax. – Pre-Purchase: It is highly recommended to buy your parking pass online while purchasing concert tickets to ensure entry. – No Tailgating: Consumption of alcohol and loitering in the parking lots is strictly prohibited by venue security.
Because of the limited parking, rideshare services like Uber and Lyft are popular alternatives. While cell service can be spotty in the Hill Country, the FCC standards for rural connectivity are supported by the venue’s free guest Wi-Fi, which helps guests coordinate pickups at the designated drop-off points.
Pro-Tips for Transportation: – Schedule Rideshares: Book your return Uber or Lyft at the time of your drop-off to avoid the massive post-show surge. – Private Shuttles: For groups, contact At Your Service Tours for a customized shuttle that bypasses rideshare lines. – Carpooling: Reducing the number of vehicles in your group is the most effective way to ensure a smoother exit from the Horseshoe loop.
Food and Beverage: A Taste of the Hill Country
The culinary experience at Whitewater Amphitheater has seen a major upgrade for the 2026 season, focusing on authentic Texas flavors. While the old favorite, Pueblo Viejo, has moved on, new vendors have stepped in to provide high-quality “festival-style” food.
The current headliner for food is Texas Ross BBQ, which provides a range of smoked meats and innovative snacks that are perfect for a night of music. They operate as a third-party vendor, meaning they accept their own forms of payment, but the venue as a whole remains largely cashless.
| Menu Item | Description | Estimated Price |
| Brisket Banh Mi | Prime brisket with pickled veggies on a soft roll | $24.00 |
| The Flying Cow | Brisket and turkey combo sandwich | $24.00 |
| Macho Nachos | Loaded nachos with brisket, cheese, and jalapeños | $15.00 |
| Smoked Gouda Mac | Creamy mac-n-cheese topped with chopped brisket | $15.00 |
| Prime Brisket | Sliced brisket sold by the half-pound | $22.00 |
For beverages, the venue offers several bar stations throughout the grounds, featuring local Texas spirits and craft beers. Deep Eddy Vodka is a staple here, with real-fruit draft cocktails like the Black Cherry Limeade being a fan favorite for hot summer nights.
Please remember that outside food and drinks are not permitted, but the venue does provide complimentary water stations. Staying hydrated is essential, as the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) advises that the Texas heat can persist well into the evening, even in the shade of the cypress trees.
Essential Rules and Policies (Know Before You Go)
To ensure safety and a smooth entry process, Whitewater Amphitheater enforces several strict policies that first-time visitors often overlook. Adhering to these rules will prevent you from having to return items to your car or being denied entry at the gate.
The 2026 Clear Bag Policy: Only clear bags are allowed inside the venue to speed up security screenings. If your bag is larger than a standard sheet of paper and is not clear, it will not be permitted; small clutches (about the size of your hand) are the only exception.
Prohibited Items: – Professional cameras or recording devices – Outside food or alcohol – Chairs, blankets, or umbrellas (small personal umbrellas may be allowed in rain) – Weapons of any kind – Large backpacks or coolers
The venue is a “Rain or Shine” operation, meaning the show will go on unless there is severe lightning or dangerous weather conditions. If rain is in the forecast, bring a poncho, as umbrellas can obstruct the view for other fans and are often restricted near the stage.
If you are traveling with children, be aware that everyone must have a ticket regardless of age. While the venue is generally open to all ages, some shows may have specific restrictions, so always check the individual event page before booking for the whole family.
Nearby Attractions: Extend Your Hill Country Adventure
Whitewater Amphitheater is located in one of the most vibrant tourist regions in Texas, making it easy to turn a concert into a multi-day vacation. Within a 20-minute drive, you can find world-class state parks, historic dance halls, and some of the best water recreation in the state.
If you enjoy the water, you are just minutes away from Canyon Lake, known as the “Water Recreation Capital of Texas.” You can spend your afternoon boating or jet skiing before heading to the show, or explore the 25 best things to do in Canyon Lake for more land-based fun.
For those who prefer the river, the “Horseshoe” section of the Guadalupe is right at your doorstep. You can rent tubes at Comal Park or one of the many local outfitters to float the very waters that flow past the amphitheater stage.
If you are traveling with a younger crowd, New Braunfels offers plenty of family-friendly activities. Check out our guide on things to do in New Braunfels with kids to find parks, museums, and the world-famous Schlitterbahn water park.
Finally, no trip to this region is complete without visiting San Antonio, which is only a 45-minute drive south. You can explore the historic missions or find the 15 best things to do in San Antonio to round out your Texas adventure.
Where to Stay: Lodging Near Whitewater Rocks
Because the venue is located in a rural area, lodging can fill up just as fast as concert tickets. There are several options ranging from luxury riverside condos to rustic campgrounds, catering to various budgets and group sizes.
| Lodging Name | Type | Distance | Phone Number |
| Hideout on the Horseshoe | Cabins / Luxury | < 1 Mile | (830) 964-4540 |
| Whitewater Condos | Modern Condos | Walking Distance | (830) 964-4540 |
| Camp Fimfo | Resort Camping | < 2 Miles | (830) 743-9803 |
| Mystic Quarry | Eco-Resort / RV | 3 Miles | (830) 964-3330 |
| Jellystone Hill Country | Family Camping | 5 Miles | (830) 256-0088 |
| Courtyard Marriott | Full-Service Hotel | 12 Miles | (830) 626-4700 |
For a truly immersive experience, the Whitewater Condos offer the convenience of walking to the show, meaning you can avoid the parking and rideshare struggle entirely. If you prefer a more natural setting, Mystic Quarry offers unique “glamping” options that fit the Hill Country aesthetic perfectly.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
Is there a seating chart for Whitewater Amphitheater?
Yes, the venue features a tiered seating chart including a General Admission pit, Wing Seats, and VIP Skyboxes. Most tickets are GA, which is standing-room only on a gravel surface, while Wing and Box seats offer guaranteed, elevated views.
How much does parking cost at Whitewater Amphitheater in 2026?
Standard parking is $20 plus tax, while motorcycles are $10 plus tax. The venue is entirely cashless, so you must pay with a credit card or Apple Pay; it is highly recommended to pre-purchase parking passes online.
Can I bring my own chair to the Whitewater Rocks concerts?
No, chairs and blankets are strictly prohibited at Whitewater Amphitheater for safety and space reasons. The General Admission area is standing-room only, though there are some picnic tables available in the Biergarten area for resting between sets.
What is the capacity of Whitewater Amphitheater?
The total capacity of the venue is 5,600 people. This includes approximately 4,000 General Admission spots and 1,600 reserved or VIP seats.
Is the Whitewater Amphitheater bag policy strict?
Yes, the venue enforces a Clear Bag Policy. Bags must be clear plastic, vinyl, or PVC and not exceed 12″ x 6″ x 12″. Small non-clear clutch bags about the size of a hand are the only exception.
Does Whitewater Amphitheater offer ADA parking?
Yes, ADA parking is available in the Whitewater Lot on a first-come, first-served basis. It is recommended to arrive early and have your placard clearly displayed so the parking team can direct you to the closest available spot.
What happens if it rains during a concert?
Whitewater Amphitheater is a “Rain or Shine” venue. Shows will typically continue during light rain, but may be delayed or paused in the event of lightning or severe weather; umbrellas are generally discouraged near the stage.
Are there shuttles to Whitewater Amphitheater?
The venue does not operate its own shuttle service, but several third-party companies in New Braunfels offer transportation. It is best to book these in advance, as rideshares can be difficult to secure immediately after a show ends.
What food is available at Whitewater Rocks?
In 2026, the primary food vendor is Texas Ross BBQ, offering brisket sandwiches, loaded nachos, and sides. There are also multiple bars serving Texas spirits, craft beers, and non-alcoholic beverages like Waterloo Sparkling Water.
Can I float the river and listen to the concert?
While the Guadalupe River flows right past the venue, you cannot see the stage from the water, and security keeps floaters moving to prevent overcrowding. However, the music carries well over the water, and many people enjoy “floating the horseshoe” earlier in the day before the gates open.
