Zac Brown Band
Grand Rapids

What Makes Opening Night Different

Tour opening nights have a magic all their own. The band arrives with fresh energy after months of rehearsal and preparation. The production team executes their plans for the first time in front of a live audience. There's an edge of anticipation that you simply can't replicate later in a tour. For Zac Brown Band specifically, opening night in Grand Rapids means debuting the visual and sonic elements developed during their Sphere residency in an arena setting for the first time. You'll experience the Love & Fear setlist before anyone else outside the band's inner circle knows what to expect.

Opening Act: Fitz and The Tantrums

Fitz and The Tantrums brings explosive energy to kick off the Love & Fear Tour. The Los Angeles-based group, led by Michael "Fitz" Fitzpatrick and co-lead vocalist Noelle Scaggs, has built a devoted following with their blend of indie pop, neo-soul, and infectious dance grooves. Their platinum-certified hits include "HandClap" (featured in countless commercials and sporting events), "The Walker," and "Out of My League." With tight harmonies, energetic choreography, and undeniable stage presence, they're the ideal choice to launch the tour with maximum energy.

Zac Brown Band’s Legacy of Excellence

Since bursting onto the national scene with their triple-platinum debut The Foundation (2008), Zac Brown Band has become one of the most successful acts in country music history. Three GRAMMY Awards, over 30.5 million singles sold, and more than 11.2 billion streams tell part of the story. But their true legacy lies in live performance. They hold the record for most consecutive sold-out shows at Boston's legendary Fenway Park, earning induction into the Fenway Music Hall of Fame in 2022 alongside Paul McCartney and Billy Joel. Their concerts blend country, rock, folk, and Southern soul into experiences that transcend genre.

Getting to Van Andel Arena

Van Andel Arena sits at 130 Fulton Street West in downtown Grand Rapids, easily accessible from US-131 and I-196. Multiple parking ramps and surface lots surround the venue, with event parking typically ranging from $10-$25. The DeVos Place parking ramp connects directly to the arena. For those preferring alternatives, rideshare drop-off zones are conveniently located, and the Rapid bus system serves downtown Grand Rapids. The arena's central location puts dozens of restaurants, bars, and entertainment venues within walking distance.

Tips for Opening Night

• Arrive Extra Early: Opening nights often attract media, industry guests, and superfans. Arriving 90+ minutes before showtime ensures you don't miss a moment of Fitz and The Tantrums or the tour's debut.
• Explore Downtown GR: Grand Rapids' downtown offers excellent dining options. Make reservations at a nearby restaurant to turn opening night into a complete experience.
• Document the Moment: You're witnessing the tour premiere! Smartphones are typically allowed for personal photos and videos (verify venue policy).
• Check Bag Policies: Van Andel Arena has specific guidelines about bag sizes and prohibited items. Review policies online before attending.

Connect with Zac Brown Band

Follow the band's official channels for tour updates, setlist reveals, and behind-the-scenes content:

• Official Website: zacbrownband.com
• Instagram: @zacbrownband
• Facebook: facebook.com/zacbrownband
• X (Twitter): @zacbrownband
• YouTube: youtube.com/zacbrownband
• TikTok: @zacbrownband

Frequently Asked Questions

When is Zac Brown Band playing in Grand Rapids?

Zac Brown Band performs at Van Andel Arena in Grand Rapids on Friday, July 17, 2026, at 7:00 PM. This date marks the official opening night of the Love & Fear Tour, making Grand Rapids the first city in North America to experience the new tour production.

Is Grand Rapids really the first show of the tour?

Yes! Grand Rapids has been selected as the launch city for the entire Love & Fear Tour. The July 17th show at Van Andel Arena is Night One of a 27-city North American tour, making it a unique opportunity to see the tour premiere before any other fans in the country.

Where is the Grand Rapids concert?

The concert takes place at Van Andel Arena, located at 130 Fulton Street West in downtown Grand Rapids, Michigan. This 12,000+ seat venue serves as West Michigan's premier destination for major concert tours and sporting events.

Who is opening for Zac Brown Band in Grand Rapids?

Fitz and The Tantrums opens the show. The platinum-selling indie pop-soul group is known for high-energy performances and hits including "HandClap," "The Walker," and "Out of My League." They'll help kick off the Love & Fear Tour with style.

What songs will Zac Brown Band play on opening night?

As the tour opener, the exact setlist remains a surprise until showtime! Expect a mix of greatest hits like "Chicken Fried," "Knee Deep," "Colder Weather," and "Toes," plus new material from the Love & Fear album including "I Ain't Worried About It," "Hard Run," and "Butterfly." Opening night audiences are the first to discover the full setlist.

How long is the concert?

Zac Brown Band headline sets typically run two to two-and-a-half hours. Including Fitz and The Tantrums' opening set, plan for approximately three-and-a-half to four hours of entertainment total. Opening nights sometimes run slightly different as the production settles in.

Where can I park for Van Andel Arena?

Multiple parking options surround Van Andel Arena in downtown Grand Rapids. The DeVos Place parking ramp offers direct arena access. Additional ramps and surface lots are available throughout downtown, typically ranging from $10-$25 for event parking. Rideshare services provide convenient drop-off alternatives.

What is Van Andel Arena's bag policy?

Van Andel Arena enforces bag size restrictions for most events. Small clutch bags and clear bags meeting specific dimensions are generally permitted, while larger bags and backpacks are typically prohibited. Verify current policies on the venue's official website before attending.

Are tickets still available for opening night?

Tickets are available through our verified resale marketplace. We connect fans with trusted sellers offering authentic tickets at competitive prices. Our transparent pricing includes all fees upfront. Opening night tickets may carry premium demand, so secure your seats early.

What is the Love & Fear Tour?

The Love & Fear Tour is Zac Brown Band's 2026 North American concert tour supporting their eighth studio album, Love & Fear (released December 5, 2025). Presented by Margaritaville at Sea, the 27-date tour launches in Grand Rapids and runs through November, featuring rotating opening acts including Fitz and The Tantrums, Grace Potter, Old Crow Medicine Show, and Brothers Osborne.

Is this an official Zac Brown Band website?

No. This website is operated by an independent ticket resale marketplace. We are not affiliated with, endorsed by, or connected to Zac Brown Band, their management, or the official tour. For official band information, merchandise, and fan club membership, visit zacbrownband.com.

How do I know my tickets are authentic?

All tickets on our platform come from verified sellers and are backed by our comprehensive buyer protection guarantee. We've operated as a trusted ticket marketplace for over 20 years with the highest Trustpilot ratings in our industry. If any issue arises, we guarantee comparable replacement tickets or a full refund.

What time should I arrive at Van Andel Arena?

For opening night, we recommend arriving at least 90 minutes before the 7:00 PM showtime. This allows time for parking, security screening, merchandise purchases, and settling into your seats before Fitz and The Tantrums kicks off the evening—and the entire tour.

What if the concert is rescheduled or canceled?

In the rare event of a cancellation, you'll receive a full refund. For rescheduled dates, tickets typically remain valid for the new date. Our customer service team monitors all events and communicates any changes promptly to affected ticket holders.

Are VIP packages available for opening night?

VIP packages and premium experiences may be available through official channels, potentially including enhanced seating, early entry, exclusive merchandise, or meet-and-greet opportunities. Check the official Zac Brown Band website and their Zamily fan club for information about special packages for the tour opener.