Ak-Chin Pavilion Bag Policy
Planning to catch a concert at Ak-Chin Pavilion (officially known as Talking Stick Resort Amphitheatre) in Phoenix, Arizona? Understanding the venue's bag policy before you arrive is essential for a smooth entry experience. This outdoor amphitheater holds approximately 20,000 guests with 8,000 covered pavilion seats and 12,000 lawn spots, and with such large crowds, security protocols are strictly enforced. The venue has implemented a clear bag policy designed to expedite entry and enhance safety for all concertgoers. Whether you're heading to the lawn or have reserved seats under the pavilion, knowing what bags are permitted—and what items you can bring inside—will help you avoid delays at the gate and ensure you don't miss a moment of your favorite artist's performance.
What Bags Are Allowed at Ak-Chin Pavilion?
Ak-Chin Pavilion has specific size restrictions for bags entering the venue. Only small clutches, wristlets or fanny packs no bigger than 6″ x 9″ OR clear plastic bags no bigger than 12″ x 12″ x 6″ will be allowed inside the venue. Here's what you need to know about acceptable bags:
- Clear bags: Clear bags, clear backpacks, and clear totes no larger than 12″ x 6″ x 12″ made of plastic, vinyl, or PVC material
- Small clutches and wristlets: Small clutches, wristlets, or fanny packs no bigger than 6″x 9″ (these do not need to be clear)
- One-gallon clear plastic bags: Standard one-gallon clear plastic freezer bags (like Ziploc bags) are acceptable alternatives
- Medical bags: Exceptions for medically necessary items will be allowed after a thorough inspection at a designated entry gate
All bags are subject to search upon entry, so arrive early to allow time for security screening. Guests have the right to refuse a bag search and the venue has the right to refuse entry.
Prohibited Items
To ensure everyone's safety and enjoyment, Ak-Chin Pavilion prohibits certain items from entering the venue. Any bags that are outside of our clear bag policy, including backpacks, luggage, camera bags, etc. are not permitted. Here's a comprehensive list of what you cannot bring:
- Non-clear backpacks, large purses, or bags exceeding size limits
- Luggage and oversized bags
- Camera bags and professional camera equipment
- Outside alcoholic beverages, coolers, professional cameras and strollers
- Lawn chairs, large bags, weapons, outside food and drink, glass containers, laser pointers, glow sticks, and selfie sticks
- Talking Stick Resort Amphitheatre does not allow weapons on our property
If you have any items that are not allowed into the venue please return them to your vehicle. The venue does not offer storage facilities for prohibited items.
What You CAN Bring Into Ak-Chin Pavilion
While the bag policy is strict, there are several items you're welcome to bring that will enhance your concert experience:
- Factory sealed water bottle – up to one gallon unfrozen per person or empty reusable water bottle to fill inside
- Blankets, small umbrellas and chairs no higher than nine inches (perfect for lawn seating, though some shows may have blanket restrictions)
- Sunscreen and bug spray
- Personal misting fans
- CamelBak hydration packs (bladder only, without the backpack frame)
- Signs no larger than 8.5″ x 11″ (standard sheet of paper size) as larger signs are not permitted due to the potential to block other guests' view of the performance
Tips for a Smooth Entry
Make your Ak-Chin Pavilion experience hassle-free by following these practical tips:
- Arrive early: Security screening takes time, especially for sold-out shows. Give yourself at least 30-45 minutes before showtime to park, walk to the venue, and clear security.
- Use a clear bag: Even if your small clutch meets size requirements, clear bags move through security much faster since contents are visible without extensive searching.
- Go digital: Show tickets can be accessed via the Live Nation app for a contactless experience. Screenshots or printed tickets will not be accepted.
- Bring payment cards: Make sure to have a debit or credit card, Apple Pay, or Google Pay to pay for food, drinks, and merchandise as vendors will not accept cash. However, people can convert cash to a card at the guest services booth in the main plaza area.
- Check event-specific rules: These policies are subject to change based on artist requests or safety considerations. Some shows have additional restrictions, so check the venue's website or social media before your event.
- Know the parking situation: For the majority of events at Ak-Chin Pavilion, there is no extra fee for parking, as it is typically included into your ticket price. The venue is located just west of downtown Phoenix off Interstate 10.
- Plan for accessibility needs: For more questions, or information not mentioned below, please don't hesitate to get in touch with us before your visit at (602) 254-7200 or TSRAinfo@livenation.com.
- Stay hydrated: Phoenix summers are hot! Take advantage of the sealed water bottle allowance and refill stations inside the venue.
By familiarizing yourself with Ak-Chin Pavilion's bag policy and preparing accordingly, you'll breeze through security and maximize your time enjoying live music under the Arizona sky. Remember that policies can change, so it's always wise to check the official Talking Stick Resort Amphitheatre website at talkingstickresortamphitheatre.com or call the box office at (602) 254-7200 for the most current information before your event.