Back Waters Amp Dubuque Opening with Whiskey Myers

New riverfront music venue kicks off with country-rock headliner on July 4th

Mar. 30, 2026 at 5:06pm

An abstract close-up photograph featuring a dazzling array of glittering sequins and shimmering disco ball fragments, conveying the celebratory energy of a summer music festival.The grand opening of Back Waters Amp promises a night of high-energy country-rock and a dazzling visual spectacle along the Mississippi River.Dubuque Today

The brand new Back Waters Amp in Dubuque, Iowa is set to open its doors for the first time on July 4th, 2026, with a performance by country-rock band Whiskey Myers. The 8,000-capacity amphitheater, located on Schmitt Island along the Mississippi River, will offer a mix of seated and lawn seating options for concertgoers. The venue is operated in partnership with the nearby Q Casino + Resort, providing attendees with additional dining, drinking, and lodging options.

Why it matters

The opening of Back Waters Amp represents a significant addition to Dubuque's live music scene, providing a new high-capacity outdoor venue to attract major touring acts. The riverfront location and partnership with Q Casino are expected to make the venue a popular destination for both local residents and out-of-town visitors looking to experience live music in a scenic setting.

The details

Back Waters Amp can accommodate up to 8,000 people, with a flexible setup that includes both seated sections and open lawn space. The venue will kick off its inaugural season on July 4th, 2026, with a performance by country-rock band Whiskey Myers, known for their high-energy shows that blend Southern rock and country influences. Taylor Hunnicutt will open the show. Tickets for the opening night event will go on sale starting April 3, with a range of pricing options from lawn seating to pit access.

  • Back Waters Amp is set to open on July 4th, 2026.
  • Tickets for the opening night event will go on sale starting April 3, 2026.

The players

Back Waters Amp

A new 8,000-capacity outdoor music venue located on Schmitt Island along the Mississippi River in Dubuque, Iowa.

Whiskey Myers

A country-rock band known for their high-energy live performances that blend Southern rock and country music influences.

Taylor Hunnicutt

A country music artist who will open the Back Waters Amp's inaugural show with Whiskey Myers on July 4th, 2026.

Q Casino + Resort

A casino and resort located near the Back Waters Amp, providing additional dining, drinking, and lodging options for concertgoers.

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What’s next

Tickets for the Back Waters Amp's opening night event on July 4th, 2026 will go on sale starting April 3, 2026.

The takeaway

The opening of the new Back Waters Amp in Dubuque, Iowa represents an exciting addition to the city's live music scene, providing a high-capacity outdoor venue to attract major touring acts and offering concertgoers a unique experience with scenic river views and convenient access to nearby dining, drinking, and lodging options.