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Top 10 Stories of 2025: Long Beach Sets the Stage for the Future of Live Entertainment
By Staff Writer
Published on Wed, Dec 17, 2025
As 2025 comes to a close, we’re celebrating the stories that moved Long Beach forward this year. From major project milestones to community-centered investments, it’s been a year of progress that continues to shape Long Beach as a great place to live, work and play.
One standout highlight is Long Beach’s new amphitheater—a new chapter in the city’s rich musical history. The City is developing the largest waterfront amphitheater in Los Angeles County, set to open in summer 2026 and usher in a new era of live entertainment along the iconic shoreline.
Once complete, the open-air venue will feature a year-round lineup of concerts and special events. With sweeping views of Downtown Long Beach and the Queen Mary, the amphitheater will be the city’s first outdoor music venue—designed to take full advantage of Southern California’s sunny climate.
The amphitheater’s inaugural season is already shaping up to be one to remember, with TOTO with Christopher Cross and The Romantics scheduled to perform on Aug. 14 and Mötley Crüe set for Sept. 19. Additional artists and events will be announced in the coming months.
Guests can expect a variety of seating options, including grandstands, floor and premium seating, along with on-site food and beverage concessions. Premium parking will be available, supported by shuttle service, rideshare amenities, bike and scooter parking, and public transportation options through Long Beach Transit and AquaLink ferries—aligning with the City’s sustainability goals.
The project is part of the City’s Grow Long Beach Initiative, which focuses on strengthening key economic sectors such as music, entertainment and tourism. The amphitheater also supports the City’s forthcoming Entertainment Strategic Plan, which will guide future growth through placemaking, partnerships and investment in creative industries.
Beyond live entertainment, the amphitheater is expected to create new jobs, support local businesses and attract visitors, generating economic benefits for the city. As Long Beach prepares to welcome the world for the 2028 Olympic and Paralympic Games, the venue will play a key role in showcasing the city’s creative vibes, energy and distinctive coastal character.
With final City Council review and vote slated for January 6, 2026, if approved construction can start immediately and the countdown to good times will begin. Soon, the stage will be set for Long Beach to welcome artists, audiences and unforgettable moments along the waterfront.
