Metallica’s Syracuse Concert Expected to Draw Record Crowd This Weekend

SYRACUSE, N.Y. — Metallica is gearing up for one of the largest concerts in Syracuse history, with over 46,000 tickets sold for their performance at the JMA Wireless Dome on April 19. The highly anticipated show, featuring opening acts Pantera and Suicidal Tendencies, is set to begin at 6 p.m. and is likely to sell out before the beginning of the event, according to Syracuse University’s vice president and chief facilities officer, Pete Sala.

This concert marks a significant milestone as it will be the second-largest crowd in the venue’s history, only surpassed by a previous attendance record of 47,319 fans in 1982. The largest audience in the Syracuse area was a New York State Fair concert featuring a country star in 2023, which drew 53,200 attendees.

The demand for tickets is unsurprising, as this is Metallica’s first performance in Syracuse and their sole New York stop during the 2025 leg of their M72 World Tour. The JMA Dome has undergone renovations that resulted in a reduced seating capacity, yet the band’s stage will be centrally located, allowing for a more immersive experience.

The intricate stage design includes ample floor seating and a “snake pit” area directly in front of the stage, accompanied by expansive 360-degree video monitors to enhance visibility for every concertgoer. Sala noted that the scale of the production is massive, with nearly 80 trucks required for transporting sound, video, lighting, and stage equipment, which is four times the amount typically needed.

Metallica, originally formed in California, features members James Hetfield, Lars Ulrich, Robert Trujillo, and Kirk Hammett. The group is recognized as one of the best-selling music acts globally, with over 125 million albums sold. Some of their iconic tracks include “Enter Sandman,” “Nothing Else Matters,” and “Master of Puppets.”

Concertgoers will have the chance to experience two nights of Metallica in Syracuse, with a special pre-concert event at Destiny USA on the eve of the show.

For those attending, tickets are still available, starting from $111, with pricing variations for different segments of the venue. Fans should download their tickets onto their smartphones beforehand, as floor tickets will grant general admission that is divided between the East and West sides of the stage. VIPs can access the “Snake Pit” area, while those opting for the “Enhanced Experience” must confirm details via email prior to the event.

To facilitate a smooth entry, attendees are advised to arrive early due to expected heavy traffic and construction in the vicinity. Comstock Avenue will operate as one-way traffic to assist with ingress and egress.

Parking is especially limited near the Dome; those traveling are encouraged to park at Skytop on Syracuse University’s South Campus, where shuttle services to the Dome will commence at 11:30 a.m. The use of rideshare services like Uber and Lyft is also recommended for easier drop-off.

Metallica merchandise will be available at several locations surrounding the venue, and fans are urged to make purchases before entering. Notably, all transactions at the Dome, including official parking, are now cashless, necessitating credit card payment. The venue has implemented a clear bag policy; only one clear bag and a small clutch are permitted. Items such as metal detectors will also be in use to enhance security.

Fans looking to support a good cause can participate in a blood donation campaign organized by the American Red Cross in collaboration with Metallica’s foundation, All Within My Hands. Donations can be made until April 18, and each contributor will receive a limited-edition t-shirt while supplies last, supporting trauma victims and patients with various medical conditions.