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| - This place changes names so many times, it's a wonder people are able to keep up with their reviews. I've been to Ak-Chin (AKA Ashley Home Furniture, Cricket Pavilion, Desert Sky Pavilion) several times for Def Leppard, Journey, Motley Crue, Rockstar Mayhem Festival and Desert Uprising.
Location:
-not far off the I-10
-ample free parking
Line-Ups:
-books heavy-hitting, headliner artists (like Motley Crue, Depeche Mode, etc) but also hosts festivals with local bands as opening acts
-festivals are a bit of a sh*tshow as there's a ton of people, they're usually in the summer and two stages are out in the parking lot. On asphalt. In the Arizona sun.
-concerts tend to be quite extended, usually starting later than initially reported and running late into the night. Be prepared to leave early or stay late.
Food:
-this is where I really start knocking off stars. A pretzel with cheese will run you $7.75... that's just plain absurd. I'd recommend (if you must eat here) that you get a "combo deal" which is about the same price but includes fries and a drink
-staff at concession stands sometimes "forgets" that you ordered a drink and you have to pull out your receipt to prove what you purchased.
Beer:
-pregaming is a must. I usually take a few nips of whiskey in the parking lot (sshhh)
-beers are usually $10-13 range
-lots of different options (both in the concession stands and independent beer/liquor stands)
Price:
-pretty expensive, usually $50+ for seating, unless you get lawn seats, usually $12-25.
-VIP tickets get you access to "backstage" lounge and usually a parking upgrade
Notes:
-bring sunblock, there is not a lot of shading, even when the sun is setting
-most concerts (at least at Mayhem and Desert Uprising) you could bring up to a gallon of water per person, must remain sealed.
-"no lighters allowed", they suggest buying them once you get inside
-smoking allowed
-cannot travel down from one section to another, must walk out and around (see a map of the seating arrangement for a better picture). STUPID.
-security tends to be a bit heavy handed, have seen people escorted out on more than one occasion per concert.
I plan on being back, but skipping the pretzel and cheese.
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