PNC Music Pavilion Bag Policy 2026: Everything You Need to Know Before Your Concert

PNC music pavilion bag policy
Updated Apr 9, 2026 · Concerts

What Is the PNC Music Pavilion Bag Policy?

Planning to catch a show at PNC Music Pavilion in Charlotte, NC? Understanding the venue’s bag policy is essential for a smooth entry experience. Located in the rolling countryside on the northeastern edge of Charlotte, North Carolina, the PNC Music Pavilion has hosted big-name acts and major music festivals since opening on July 4, 1991. With a capacity of approximately 19,000 people, this popular outdoor amphitheater welcomes thousands of concertgoers throughout the season. To ensure everyone’s safety and expedite entry, the venue enforces a clear bag policy that all guests should know before arriving. All bags are subject to search upon entry. Guests have the right to refuse a bag search and the venue has the right to refuse entry.

What Bags Are Allowed at PNC Music Pavilion?

PNC Music Pavilion has implemented a clear bag policy to enhance security and streamline the entry process. Here’s what you need to know about acceptable bags:

  • Clear bags no larger than 12″x6″x12″ (length x width x height)
  • Unclear bags no larger than 6″x9″ (such as small clutches)
  • This applies to all bags including totes, clutches, and fanny packs
  • Oversize bags for medical needs: Guests requiring larger amounts of medically necessary supplies in reasonable quantities must be declared and subjected to additional screening upon entry. Security will put a medical tag on your bag. Only these items are not subjected to our baggage policy.
  • Diaper bags accompanied by guests using them (subject to search)

For bags clear bags larger than 12″x6″x12″ and unclear bags larger than 6″x9″ you do have the option to check these items for a fee at the Guest Services Booth. If you prefer not to pay the fee, it’s best to return non-compliant bags to your vehicle before entering.

What Can You Bring Into PNC Music Pavilion?

Beyond bags, the venue allows several items that can enhance your concert experience:

  • One factory-sealed plastic bottle of water (up to 1 liter) or an empty non-glass water bottle
  • Small blankets or beach towels (no larger than 3′ x 5′)
  • Food (must fit in allowed bag sizes)
  • Non-professional cameras (pocket-sized, point-and-shoot, no removable lenses)
  • Small pocket-sized umbrellas (for use in plazas only)

What Items Are Prohibited at PNC Music Pavilion?

To maintain a safe environment for all guests, PNC Music Pavilion prohibits the following items:

  • Alcoholic beverages (alcohol is available for purchase inside)
  • Laser pointers
  • Weapons of any kind
  • Professional camera equipment with detachable lenses
  • Drones
  • Wallet chains
  • Canned beverages
  • Animals (except service animals as defined by the ADA)

If you have any items that are not allowed into the venue, please return them to your vehicle. The venue does not provide storage for prohibited items beyond the bag check service at Guest Services.

How Do You Get Through Security at PNC Music Pavilion?

Make your concert experience hassle-free by following these helpful tips:

  • Arrive Early: Plan to arrive at least an hour before showtime to account for parking, security screening, and bag checks.
  • Choose the Right Bag: Invest in a clear plastic, vinyl, or PVC bag that meets the 12″x6″x12″ requirement. Small clutches under 6″x9″ are also convenient options.
  • Prepare for Screening: You know the drill—metal detectors, maybe a pat down, and a bag check if you’ve got one. Have your bag open and ready for inspection.
  • Go Mobile: Before you set off, download your tickets to your phone on the Live Nation app. The venue uses mobile entry only.
  • Bring Cashless Payment: ALL points of sale including premier parking, merchandise, food & beverage will ONLY accept debit, credit or mobile pay (Apply Pay or Google Pay). For fans that wish to use cash, Cash to Card conversion will be available at the upsell tent, located in both the North and South concession plazas.
  • Know Your Parking Options: General admission parking comes with your ticket! If you want easier entry, go for Reserved Premier Parking or Ultra Premier Parking.
  • Check Event-Specific Rules: Some shows may have additional restrictions, so always check the event page before attending.
  • Accessibility Services: PNC Music Pavilion is a KultureCity Certified Sensory Inclusive Venue. Please visit our Guest Services booth for more information. Guest Services is located at Gate 2.

By familiarizing yourself with PNC Music Pavilion’s bag policy and preparing accordingly, you’ll breeze through security and spend more time enjoying the incredible live music experience this premier Charlotte venue has to offer. For the most current information or specific questions, contact the box office at (704) 549-1292 or visit the official PNC Music Pavilion website before your show.

Frequently Asked Questions

What Bags Are Allowed at PNC Music Pavilion?

PNC Music Pavilion has implemented a clear bag policy to enhance security and streamline the entry process. Here’s what you need to know about acceptable bags:

What Can You Bring Into PNC Music Pavilion?

Beyond bags, the venue allows several items that can enhance your concert experience:

Can You Bring Food and Drinks to PNC Music Pavilion?

Yes, you can bring limited outside food and beverages. One factory-sealed plastic bottle of water up to 1 liter or an empty non-glass water bottle is allowed. Food must fit within allowed bag sizes. Outside alcohol is prohibited.

Umbrellas, Electronics, and Other Items at PNC Music Pavilion

Yes, small pocket-sized umbrellas are permitted for use in plazas only. Non-professional cameras without removable lenses are allowed. Vaping and smoking policies are not specified in the provided content—contact the venue directly for their current policy.

Other Venue Policy FAQs

Can you bring food into PNC Music Pavilion?

Yes. Food is allowed as long as it fits within the permitted bag sizes (clear bags no larger than 12"x6"x12" or unclear bags no larger than 6"x9").

Can you bring water bottles into PNC Music Pavilion?

Yes. One factory-sealed plastic bottle of water up to 1 liter or an empty non-glass water bottle is permitted.

Are umbrellas allowed at PNC Music Pavilion?

Yes, but only small pocket-sized umbrellas for use in plazas only. Large golf umbrellas are not permitted.

Can you bring a camera into PNC Music Pavilion?

Yes. Non-professional cameras (pocket-sized, point-and-shoot style with no removable lenses) are allowed.

Are there bag check options at PNC Music Pavilion?

Yes. Oversized bags can be checked for a fee at the Guest Services Booth, or you can return non-compliant bags to your vehicle.

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