Live Nation are doing socially distanced drive-in gigs this summer - here's how they work

Here's what the gigs could look like (Image: Live Nation)Here's what the gigs could look like (Image: Live Nation)
Here's what the gigs could look like (Image: Live Nation)

Promoters Live Nation have announced a series of drive-in concerts are to take place across the UK this summer, under ongoing social distancing measures.

The gigs will be held in a “drive-in” format in large outdoor spaces, with a limited capacity of 300 cars.

The shows are intended to be a safe alternative to the thousands of events that have been cancelled this summer due to Covid-19, and a a six-week programme of live performances will tour the UK.

Here’s everything you need to know:

How will the gigs work?

The shows, which will run for six days a week for six weeks from mid-July through to September, have been organised by Live Nation to give people their much-needed fix of concerts and live music from the comfort of their cars – but with the same arena or stadium feel that fans have been missing.

Performances will take place on a specially-constructed stage.

Shows will be capped to around 300 cars with social distancing spacing in between.

Cars with up to seven people are allowed and each vehicle will have its own dedicated area for people to either stand or bring folding chairs if they wish to enjoy their chosen show.

Live Nation says the shows are designed to comply with all official Government guidelines, ensuring audiences can enjoy the series of music concerts, theatre performances, comedy shows and family experiences this summer in a safe and responsible way.

Who’s playing?

The likes of Ash, Dizzee Rascal, The Lightning Seeds and Gary Numan, have all signed up to play at the events; Sigala and Tony Hadley will also join the likes of The Streets and Russell Watson.

Other artists and groups taking part include Beverley Knight, Bjorn Again, Brainiac Live, Brand New Heavies, Camp Bestival Live, Cream Classical Ibiza, Embrace, Jack Savoretti, Nathan Dawe, Reggae Roast Vs Gentleman’s Dub Club, Sheku and Isata Kanneh-Mason, Skindred, The Snuts, The Zutons, and Tony Hadley.

The programme of events will also include West End theatre performances, comedians, blockbuster films, interactive science shows and familiar faces from children’s TV, with entertainment taking place in mornings, afternoons, early evenings and later on.

Where will the shows be?

Outdoor spaces in Birmingham, Liverpool, London will play host, as well as Edinburgh, Bristol and beyond.

The full list of cities and venues is as follows:

  • Birmingham – Resorts World Arena
  • Bolton – University of Bolton Stadium
  • Bristol – Filton Airfield
  • Cheltenham – Racecourse
  • Edinburgh – Royal Highland Centre
  • Leeds – East Airport
  • Lincolnshire – Showground
  • Liverpool – Central Docks
  • London – TBC
  • Milton Keynes – National Bowl
  • Newmarket – Racecourse
  • Teeside – International Airport

For full information on which artists will be performing at which locations in which dates, head to the Live Nation website

How do I get tickets?

Tickets will go on sale through the Live Nation website from Monday 22 June at 10am.