BLACKSBURG, Va. – The town of Blacksburg is buzzing with anticipation as nearly 100,000 fans are expected to arrive on Wednesday for the highly anticipated Metallica concert at Lane Stadium. This major event is set to bring a substantial boost to local businesses.
Local Businesses Expect Larger Crowds Than Game Days
As the concert draws closer, local businesses are preparing for an unprecedented influx of visitors. According to Kristen Chavarria, General Manager at Mellow Mushroom, the turnout is expected to surpass even the largest football game days.
“We’re expecting more business than we would on a typical game day,” she said. “I’ve heard anywhere from 85,000 to over 100,000 people.”
To handle the surge, her team is focusing on staffing and logistics.
“It’s all about planning and strategy. Once that’s in place, we’re ready to go,” she added.
J.H. Bards Expands Hours and Adds Special Events
Meanwhile, Jason Hardy, co-owner of J.H. Bards, is also making big plans. Although the bar is usually closed on Tuesdays, it will open early to welcome concert-goers.
“We think there’s going to be a big crowd,” he said.
Moreover, the bar is launching a pop-up bar upstairs in Kent Square, in coordination with Metallica’s official merchandise pop-up.
“We want to be a part of it,” Hardy said. “It’s a once-in-a-lifetime experience for a small town like this.”
Concert Brings Economic Boost Ahead of Summer Slowdown
Both Mellow Mushroom and J.H. Bards anticipate steady crowds from Tuesday through Thursday. This comes as a welcome opportunity before the slower post-graduation season.
“We really embrace days like this,” said Chavarria. “They give us a chance to connect with community members who don’t usually come out.”
Hardy added that the event is especially meaningful because of the venue:
“Having Metallica play at Lane Stadium, where we blast ‘Enter Sandman’ multiple times each football season—it’s amazing,” he said. “We’re thrilled to be just around the corner.”
