MADISON, Wis. — On Saturday, country music star Morgan Wallen kicked off the first of two concerts at Camp Randall Stadium in Madison.

What You Need To Know

  • It was the first concert held at Camp Randall since the Rolling Stones in 1997

  • Both local and out-of-town fans had to contend with extra traffic, road closures and few parking options near the venue

  • All the extra traffic had nearby businesses excited

  • Local leaders said they hope it’s a tradition that keeps going

It was the first concert held at Camp Randall since the Rolling Stones in 1997.

On Saturday morning, excited fans lined up outside Wallen’s merchandise stand. Both local and out-of-town fans had to contend with extra traffic, road closures and few parking options near the venue.

Some were taking it in stride.

“We’ve been using the e-bikes, so that’s been awesome,” said Brianne Stephenson, who traveled in from Illinois.

All the extra traffic had nearby businesses excited.

Jordan’s Big 10 Pub on Regent Street hosted a pre-show tailgate, complete with drinks, food and giveaways.

Manager Andrew McCauley said he’s excited to be part of the first concert at Camp Randall in 28 years.

“I’d always hear stories about my mom going to all the concerts,” McCauley said. “It’s fun actually being so close and being a part of it now, however many years later.”

Local leaders said they hope it’s a tradition that keeps going.

5th District Ald. Regina Vidaver said she’s happy an event like this is bringing energy back to the area during the off-season.

“It’s really an opportunity for growth in the center of the city to be able to accommodate those who want to be here and those who are looking to have a fun place to be able to be,” Vidaver said.

Vidaver said she’s been working with other leaders to make Regent Street into a more robust entertainment district. She said she hopes regular concerts become a part of that.

“We are seeing increased hotel room blocks as a result of the concert,” Vidaver said. “We expect a lot of activity at the restaurants and taverns on Regent Street in this area. So really, again, activating the area and making sure that we have a great draw for people to come both from Madison and areas surrounding Madison.”

McCauley said he’s looking forward to seeing and experiencing the economic growth in this area.

“It helps us a little bit,” he said. “But Regent Street is growing so fast on its own, so we’re very excited for the next five years, even beyond football and concerts.”

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