Stage at Hard Rock Cafe (photo by David Grace)
Hard Rock is famous for its entertainment. There are four stages at the casino in Bristol, Virginia, Hard Rock Live (2,300 plus entertainment venue), Hard Rock Café, Studio 621/Marketplace and Council Oak Steaks and Seafood Lounge. Together they host more than 600 events per year – from national touring acts and comedy to songwriter nights and local showcases. Marketplace shows are for all ages; the other venues are for those who are over 21.
“We are focused on creating a mix that is authentic to Bristol and the surrounding region. In the Marketplace/Studio 621 Stage, Hard Rock Café, and Council Oak Steak and Seafood, we have everything from bluegrass and country to Americana, blues, jazz, and acoustic singer-songwriters. We also program rock, soul and regional acts with strong local followings. Our goal is to keep the experience fresh for new and returning guests,” says Darin Cralle, director of entertainment.
Since opening they have welcomed some of the nation’s top touring performers including Blake Shelton, Bush, Marcus King, Boyz II Men, Old Dominion, Travis Tritt, Trace Adkins, Jay Leno, Larry the Cable Guy and many others. They’ve also featured intimate performances by Tim Lauderdale, Dave Eggar, Larry Keel, Jake Hoot and are celebrating with Robert Randolph for a free café anniversary show.
Acts for next year include David Foster and Katharine McPhee (Valentine’s Day 2026), Ricky Skaggs & Kentucky Thunder Christmas, Bert Kreischer, Rob Thomas and more — with new shows announced regularly. Fans can stay up to date via the website, social media and Ticketmaster venue page.
Their booking process is a team effort. An internal entertainment management team reviews offers and confirms bookings for Hard Rock Live and other stages. The local casino is supported by Hard Rock International’s networks, which helps connect with tours and artists playing multiple Hard Rock properties worldwide.
“We’re committed to showcasing regional talent and helping grow the local arts scene — Café, Council Oak Lounge, and Marketplace regularly feature local musicians,” Cralle says. “Many of the artists who perform here ask to come back and tell us how much they love Bristol.”
Local musicians can submit press kits and links on the entertainment page on their website to apply to perform. Hard Rock Live is also available for rental for weddings, conventions and events.
For more information, visit casino.hardrock.com/Bristol.
