The "No Shoes Nation" swarmed Pittsburgh's North Shore by the thousands this past weekend, signaling country star Kenny Chesney's return for his "Sun Goes Down" tour. As the crowd revved up for the Saturday night spectacle at Acrisure Stadium, Chesney fans—some ticket holders, others just there for the pre-show revelry—marked the official opening of summer in true Pennsylvanian style, with tailgates kicking off at the crack of dawn.
Fans flocked to the stadium's perimeter, eager for a blend of music and camaraderie. In a statement obtained by TribLive, Pittsburgh resident Niko Rosso expressed his excitement about the annual tailgate tradition, emphasizing its importance as "a perfect time to get back together." Adding to the mix, some attendees opted to skip the land-based fun and engage in "sailgating," with boats anchored along the river for an alternate concert experience.
It wasn't just about the music or partying, however. Keenly aware of the past transgressions that tarnished the event's reputation, this year's attendees seemed to embrace a more civic-minded approach. As reported by CBS Pittsburgh, tailgater Julia Genuardi noted a tangible shift in the atmosphere, saying, "It feels like everyone has really come together and realized, why are we gonna be rowdy and rude? Let's be nice and have fun."
The concert also harmonized with other significant events, including the Pittsburgh Pride march and the Three Rivers Arts Festival, creating a diverse fusion in the city's cultural landscape. Despite having a history of issues such as trash and misconduct, this year's event seemed mellower. According to a Post-Gazette report, Kenny Chesney fans were not alone, as their tailgates were set alongside celebrants of the city's Pride Parade, painting a picture of inclusivity and shared joy.
Still, the city braced for the usual suspects of congestion and elevated parking fees—some lots cashed in on the demand, charging up to $60. But many seasoned tailgaters, like Ben Bentley who lives in Lawrenceville, were hardly taken aback by the hubbub. Bentley told the Post-Gazette, "It's a big event for this city," underscoring the significance of Chesney's tour stop in Pittsburgh. Much more than just a concert, for this crowd, Kenny Chesney's yearly performance has become a keystone of communal summer festivities in the Steel City.
