Concerts Returning To University Of Georgia’s Sanford Stadium In Spring 2026

The University of Georgia has made a major step towards bringing live music back to Sanford Stadium by announcing a partnership with talent acquisition firm Does Entertainment and a target date for the start of a concert series. Dubbed Live Between The Hedges, the school aims to launch the 2026 series at the massive Athens, Georgia venue on Saturday, April 25.

Sanford Stadium last hosted a concert in 2013 when Jason Aldean, Luke Bryan, Jake Owen and Thomas Rhett performed in front of over 60,000 fans. Athens’ live music legacy includes birthing Widespread Panic, R.E.M. and The B-52’s. Widespread Panic will celebrate their 40th anniversary in 2026.

“The idea of bringing concerts back to Sanford Stadium has been in the works for a long time, and I am excited to see it become a reality,” J. Reid Parker Director of Athletics Josh Brooks said. “Our partnership with Does Entertainment allows us to attract top talent to Athens for a one-of-a-kind show. While nothing compares to a football Saturday at Sanford Stadium, a big-name concert inside one of the most iconic venues in sports creates a tradition that Bulldog Nation and the surrounding area will enjoy.”

“We’re honored to team up with the University of Georgia and look forward to providing unforgettable concert experiences for UGA and its fans,” added Jared Stone, CEO of Does Entertainment. “We are excited to contribute to the school’s rich tradition of excellence.”

Josh Brooks told reporters in May that R.E.M. is at the top of his wish list. “Look, I’m going to keep saying it until they get sick of hearing it, I still want R.E.M.,” Brooks said as per the Athens Banner-Herald. “I know Bertis (Downs, the band’s lawyer) and Mike Mills are going to keep telling me no, but I will keep pestering Mike and Bertis and the crew over and over again.” R.E.M. broke up in 2011.

More details and the artist announcement(s) are forthcoming. Follow this link to sign up for ticket information.