PNE unveils first 5 performers for summer concert series at new amphitheatre

A rendering for the new PNE amphitheatre is seen. (PNE)

The PNE has unveiled the first five performers set to take the stage at the fair’s new amphitheatre as part of its annual summer concert series.

In a news release Tuesday, the PNE said it will reveal the acts over the next three days, with the first batch featuring a mix of Canadian talent, alternative rock, rap, and an international DJ.

The first weekend will kick off with Canadian favourites Blue Rodeo and The Guess Who. The PNE calls it a “full-circle moment” as Blue Rodeo was the band that delivered the final performance at the former amphitheatre, which was closed in 2023 after a 59-year run.

The following nights will feature an eclectic mix of genres, as The Beaches, Nelly and Zedd headline the event.

Organizers say the summer concert series is one of the fair’s most anticipated events each year—with this season expected to draw even more attention as it debuts its new amphitheatre.

“(It) will officially christen the Freedom Mobile Arch as Western Canada’s newest premier outdoor concert destination,” organizers said in the release. “The state-of-the-art, open-air venue is set to redefine live music in Vancouver.”

The concert schedule is as follows:

• Aug. 22: Blue Rodeo
• Aug. 23: The Guess Who
• Aug. 25: The Beaches
• Aug. 26: Nelly
• Aug. 27: Zedd

Five more performers are expected to be announced on Wednesday.

Fair admission is included in the price of each concert ticket, which go on sale April 20.

The PNE runs from Aug. 22 to Sept. 7, except for the Mondays of Aug. 24 and 31.