Red Rocks allows only single-pocket or clear bags up to 13" x 15" x 8" — no backpacks or multi-pocket bags. You can bring one empty reusable water bottle (32 oz), factory-sealed non-alcoholic drinks, food in a clear one-gallon bag, and lotion sunscreen. Umbrellas, aerosols, glass, alcohol and removable-lens cameras are banned. Dress in layers for the 6,450 ft altitude.
Last refreshed August 9, 2026
| Coverage scope | Bag policy and weather-adjusted packing guidance for Red Rocks Amphitheatre | Answer family | What to bring |
|---|
Single-pocket bags only, 13" x 15" x 8" max. No backpacks. Bring layers, water, sunscreen, and a poncho. Summer shows run warm by day and cool into the 60s after sunset, with a chance of afternoon thunderstorms: bring lotion sunscreen (aerosol is banned), a refillable water bottle, a light layer for after dark, and a poncho in case of storms. Empty reusable water bottles up to 32 oz are allowed. Food in a clear 1-gallon bag is allowed. Hydration packs (CamelBaks) up to 2L, emptied, one extra pocket max. Umbrellas, glass, alcohol, cameras with removable lenses, and aerosol sunscreen are all prohibited.
| Bag type | Allowed? | Size limit | Notes |
|---|---|---|---|
| Single-pocket bag (tote, drawstring) | Yes | 13" x 15" x 8" | Must be single compartment. |
| Fanny pack / belt bag | Yes | 6" x 9" | Small fanny packs only. |
| Hydration pack (CamelBak) | Yes | 2L bladder max | Must be emptied at entry. 1 extra pocket max. |
| Clutch / small purse | Yes | 6" x 9" | Single pocket. |
| Backpack | No | -- | Multi-pocket. Not permitted regardless of size. |
| Messenger bag | No | -- | Multi-pocket. Not permitted. |
| Diaper bag | No | -- | Multi-pocket. Not permitted. |
| Camera bag | No | -- | Not permitted. |
| Item | Allowed? | Rules |
|---|---|---|
| Empty reusable water bottle | Yes | Up to 32 oz. Must be empty at entry. |
| Factory-sealed non-alcoholic beverage | Yes | Up to 32 oz. Sealed, not opened. |
| Food | Yes | In clear plastic bag, 1 gallon or less. Fruit/veggies must be sliced. Plastic utensils only. |
| Soft-sided cooler | Yes | 10" x 7" x 7" or smaller. |
| Alcohol | No | Prohibited. Available for purchase inside (cash-free). |
| Glass containers | No | No glass of any kind. |
| Hard-sided cooler | No | Soft-sided only. |
| Item | Allowed? | Notes |
|---|---|---|
| Blanket | Yes | 40" x 60" max. Must fit in your seat area. |
| Poncho / rain gear | Yes | Bring one. Shows go on in rain. Umbrellas are banned. |
| Binoculars | Yes | Allowed. |
| Phone | Yes | Phone cameras allowed. Removable-lens cameras are not. |
| Lotion sunscreen | Yes | Lotion and stick only. |
| Umbrella | No | Prohibited. Blocks views. Bring a poncho instead. |
| Aerosol sunscreen | No | Aerosol products of any kind are banned. |
| Camera with removable lens | No | Professional cameras not permitted. Phone cameras are fine. |
| Drone | No | Federal airspace restrictions apply. |
| Inflatable | No | Not permitted. |
Altitude essentials (6,450 ft): Water — hydrate aggressively, bring a 32 oz reusable bottle (empty at entry, fill at water stations inside), start hydrating the day before. Sunscreen — UV is 25% stronger at this elevation; lotion or stick only (aerosol is banned); apply before entering, you will burn faster than at sea level. Layers — temperature can drop 20-30F from afternoon to late evening; bring a warm layer even for summer shows. Alcohol hits harder — at altitude, alcohol affects you faster; pace yourself; bring extra water.
Rain policy: Shows go on in rain. Red Rocks does not cancel for rain, snow, or cold. Events are only canceled for lightning, which is dangerous for an outdoor venue at elevation. If a show is canceled, check AXS for refund or reschedule info. Because umbrellas are prohibited, bring a rain poncho. Disposable ponchos are sold inside the venue but sell out fast, so bring your own. Summer afternoon and evening thunderstorms can roll in fast and pass quickly — a packable poncho plus a light layer cover you for both the storm and the post-sunset cool-down.
Companion guides for planning your Red Rocks show.
What bags are allowed at Red Rocks?
Red Rocks allows single-pocket bags up to 13 x 15 x 8 inches, fanny packs up to 6 x 9 inches, and hydration packs up to 2L (must be emptied at entry, 1 extra pocket max). Multi-pocket bags including backpacks, messenger bags, diaper bags, and camera bags are NOT permitted regardless of size.
Can I bring food to Red Rocks?
Yes. Food must be in a clear plastic bag, 1 gallon or less. Fruits and vegetables must be sliced. Plastic utensils only. Soft-sided coolers are allowed (10 x 7 x 7 inches or smaller). No alcohol, no glass containers. Empty reusable water bottles up to 32 oz and factory-sealed non-alcoholic beverages up to 32 oz are allowed.
Can I bring an umbrella to Red Rocks?
No. Umbrellas are prohibited at Red Rocks because they block views. Shows go on in rain and are only canceled for lightning. Bring a rain poncho instead. Disposable ponchos are available inside the venue but sell out fast on rainy nights.
Can I bring a camera to Red Rocks?
Phone cameras and basic point-and-shoot cameras are fine. Cameras with removable or detachable lenses (professional/DSLR gear) are prohibited without media credentials. Aerosol items are also banned, so pack lotion or stick sunscreen instead of spray.
Can I bring an empty water bottle to Red Rocks?
Yes. One empty reusable water bottle up to 32 oz is allowed, and there are water stations inside to fill it. Hydrating aggressively matters at 6,450 ft, so bring it empty through the gate and fill up once you are in.