What is the bag policy?

Beginning Wednesday, September 14, 2022 the following clear bag policy will take effect:

  • CLEAR plastic, vinyl or PVC bags no larger than 12" x 6" x 12" will be allowed
  • Small clutch bags no larger than 4.5" x 6.5" (approximately the size of a hand) will be allowed and do NOT need to be clear

Larger and other types of bags will not be allowed in. There is no storage or check-in for prohibited bags.

For patrons with young children in attendance, diaper bags are allowed and subject to search.

bag policy.jpg

What are the security procedures I need to know?

  • All guests and their possessions are subject to search
  • Metal detectors will be stationed at each entrance
  • Prohibited items include but are not limited to: outside food and beverages, coolers, umbrellas, professional cameras, audio and video recording devices, weapons of any kind, backpacks, glass items, lasers and glowsticks, iPads, tablets, selfie sticks
  • There is no storage or check-in for items turned away
  • Please plan to arrive earlier than normal to allow for traffic, parking and security procedures

For more information, please visit our Security Procedures page

What is the COVID-19 entry policy?

As of February 11, 2022, masks are no longer required. Patrons who are more comfortable wearing a mask are encouraged to do so. Patrons are not required to show proof of vaccination or a negative test result. PLEASE NOTE: individual shows may enforce stricter entry policies. Please visit the individual event page for the show you would like to attend to view its specific policy.

Are you a cashless facility?

Concessions do NOT accept cash. Cards, Apple Pay and Google Pay are accepted.

MVP Arena parking garage accepts both cash and cards.

What is the camera policy for MVP Arena events?

As of December 12, 2015, professional cameras are no longer allowed at MVP Arena. Cameras with a detachable lens are considered to be professional. Non-professional cameras without removable lens and cell phones are permitted for picture taking. Individual events may enforce stricter camera policies. If there is a different camera policy, the information will be listed on the individual event page.

Do you offer free Wi-Fi?

Yes! Free Wi-Fi is brought to you by Family Danz. Once you arrive, find and connect to the available network labeled MVP free WIFI by Family Danz.

What is a "GA" ticket?

A GA or (General Admission Floor) means there are no seats. In other words, the event is standing room only, and your spot on the floor is based on a first-come, first-served basis. Wristbands are typically distributed when you enter the building with your GA ticket. You will need your ticket and your wristband (on your wrist) to get to and stay on the floor.

Are there any gluten free options at the concession stands?

Here is a complete list of our gluten free options and where to buy them:

  • Popcorn- Capital Kitchen/Knickerbocker Grill/Red Star Bar/Northside Snacks/Stella Bar/Miller Lite Bar/Drink NY Bar
  • French Fries- Capital Kitchen/Knickerbocker Grill
  • Harvest Salad- Northside Snacks/Red Star Bar
  • New York Chips- Taste NY
  • Nachos & Cheese- Northside Snacks/Red Star Bar
  • Sabrett Hot Dog (sans bun)-Capital Kitchen/Knickerbocker Grill/Red Star Bar/Northside Snacks
  • Cheeseburger (sans bun)-Capital Kitchen/Knickerbocker Grill
  • Peanuts- Capital Kitchen/Knickerbocker Grill/Red Star Bar/Northside Snacks
  • M&Ms, M&M Peanut, Snickers, Starburst, Skittles- Capital Kitchen/Knickerbocker Grill

*While we offer gluten-free menu options, we are not a gluten-free facility and cannot guarantee that menu items are 100% free of gluten, as there is always a possibility of trace amounts crossing over from other kitchen areas. Please consider this when ordering from our menu.*

Why do I sometimes find events listed on an artist's Website before it's posted on the MVP Arena site?

A lot of times, information announcing a concert to be held at MVP Arena will be posted on a band's Website, and not on the MVP Arena site. We do not post any tour information or announce shows at the Arena until we have a signed contract from all parties. In the past, tours have announced shows coming into the Arena and, due to unforeseen circumstances, subsequently cancelled the date. We only tell you about upcoming events when we have the signed paperwork.

Where are suites/box seats located?

Suites are located at the top of the inner bowl of the Arena. Suites are rented on a three-year lease basis (they are currently sold out). If you have tickets for a suite, ask a security guard for assistance. He/she will escort you to your suite.

Can I bring food or beverages into the Arena?

No. Outside food and beverages are not allowed inside the Arena. However, there are tasty treats of all kinds available inside the Arena, including pretzels, popcorn, french fries, and almost anything else your heart could desire. We do allow common sense to prevail when dealing with patrons with special dietary/medical needs.

At what age are children required to have a ticket?

For most performances, all children over the age of two (2) must have a ticket. Children under two (2) without a ticket cannot take a seat; they must sit on your lap. For family-type shows (e.g., Sesame Street Live), everyone who is one (1) year old and over needs a paid ticket.

Where can I purchase tickets?

Tickets are available at the MVP Arena Box Office and online by selecting the event you are interested in attending on our events listing and clicking on the Tickets button. Depending on the event, online tickets may be available through either ticketmaster.com or axs.com.

Who owns MVP Arena?

MVP Arena is owned by Albany County.

How do I get handicapped seating for events at the Arena?

Handicapped seating is available by request through the MVP Arena Box Office during normal business hours (m-F 10am-4pm) by calling (866) 308-3394. For additional information, see our Accessibility page.

How do I become an E-Newsletter subscriber? What are the benefits?

You can easily join the MVP Arena E-Newsletter by clicking the "E-Newsletter" button in our Website header and filling out the simple form. There are so many benefits to being a member! For starters, you'll get concert and show announcements delivered right to your e-mail inbox. Plus, you'll be invited to join in available presales and contests for ticket upgrades and free tickets. The best part is - it's FREE! You'll get all the inside tips on upcoming events...and you don't have to pay a penny.

Where can I get information about hosting my event/conference at MVP Arena?

Please contact us for all inquiries about renting the MVP Arena by sending a message via our contact form or call the Arena general information line at (518) 487-2000.