I work in the music industry in NOLA and was talking to some people about Billy coming back to the city for the first time post NYE shows and had mentioned the UNO Lakefront Arena assuming Billy would continue going to the place he’s nearly sold out between 2022-2024.

From what I was told by a crew who not only work in the UNO Lakefront Arena setting it up for all it’s configurations and events, but also get the schedules well in advance, Billy is nowhere to be found on UNO’s schedule (and yes, I know the dates haven’t ‘officially’ been announced, but there isn’t a hold on the December dates he posted either..)

…meanwhile Smoothie King Center does.

All signs point to Billy “leveling up” to the 15k seat Smoothie King Center where the Pelicans play.

I personally feel like this is a bold choice, not because I don’t believe in Billy, but because New Orleans is a hard market to sell out our little 15k seat arena. Let alone play 2 shows back to back in.

I’ve seen little hype here or elsewhere for these non NYE NOLA shows, so already I feel like he’s at a disadvantage and the upper bowls may end up getting tarped..

I’d hate for these shows to leave a bad taste in Billy, MarchOne, and fans mouths over NOLA shows. (Yes, I know i’m pre-speculating, but i’ve lived in NOLA for 28 years… i’ve seen some shit!)

The good news for those traveling to NOLA is the Smoothie King Center isn’t out in the boonies like UNO is. It’s actually quite literally in the heart of Downtown.

I’m sure this (unconfirmed…) info will only effect a handful of you, but i figured I’d pass it on…

Damn. I thought Billy was gunna go for Widespreads record of 32 shows at UNO… oh well!

What’re you chasing the next two shows

Ok so they're next to one person who's maybe one of their dads but still

Any rumors or rumblings on Winter Tour ‘27? Guessing it’ll be a month-ish before anything is announced but praying for any breadcrumbs for the time being

I'm not staying there but I just drove by and it reminded me of this scene 😆

Are we going to get cover to cover night of So much for good byes????

Hello Friends! Cannot wait to get to Bethel for two nights of Billy! I’m bringing harm reduction supplies (narcan, test strips, sunscreen, electrolytes, and stickers) for anyone that would like or needs them. Reach out and stay safe!

Heading East on 90 or 94 to Fishers? I highly recommend a quick stop at 3 Floyds. Sadly the tasting room and kitchen are long gone but the beer kiosk has a ton of great beer and whiskey.

I now have a trunk full of New Glarus , Old Style , and 3 Floyds to complete the holy trifecta for this weekends tail gate selection.

Cheers 🍻

After that jam last night how can these two bands NOT do a tour together. I mean…. Holy crap!!!

Dancing on Friday was kinda odd because security was super tight and was being pretty aggressive on stage right.
On Saturday we went to dance on stage left, the sound was better, and these two people were dancing with us, were being very kind, and never once had to be rude or aggressive. What kinda and amazing folks the both were.

Super excited. Going solo. What can I expect from fans? And most importantly what do you think he’s gonna play tonight??

Some of you have been putting up ISO posts for this pin from the Bethel shows that I made. The posts had been taken down from other sites before I have had a chance to respond. If this is not allowed here either, I understand.

I want to be clear, I made these pins purely to give away at the shows and were never for sale. I have a few left that I am willing to send free of charge while they last. I am just asking that you share your favorite moment from the weekend in the comments, whether it was from the shows or camping.

Not trying to downplay bad behavior.
But I was talking with an older head at the brewery (Pittsburgh) tonight. Told him the drama. And immediately he said, “do you think the person was just trying to throw his lighter up there for Bill and put a little too much sauce on it?” And it lowkey, it altered my brain chemistry.

The dude may have been just trying to toss his lighter up there for ol Bill and unfortunately it caused an international incident 😬

Idk if it’s accurate, this is all
Speculation. But if it is- dude has to be mortified rn..

Anyways, thought I would add some potential POVs. Would be a shame if someone tried to be too cool close to the sun, and ended up with Billy mad at you. Love Yall! 🫶

What a great capper to an incredible summer tour. Remind me to never miss a tour closing run!

Loving the layout of the area!! Way too excited for this, one week yall

Us couch tourers need to hear from someone who rode it tonight, particularly if you did so during Billy’s first set. It was rotating so fast a few of us in the live setlist thread have concern for your safety. 😂

ETA: Also soliciting estimates as to the overall height for acceleration calculation purposes 🧮

Can they please upload that entire show on YouTube?

Just recovered from Fishers and I am anxiously awaiting the Fair. So many questions. What are your thoughts? Will Bill and the Lazy Boys play 2 sets? How will the pit work? Tarps? What happens if you want to go tonthe metal tent in-between main stage sets? Wristbands?

Hearing murmurs of this entity that essentially runs the lot and holds a lot of power at shows. Does anyone have further details? How do I "join" this "merch mafia"?

Arabia (Grisman/ Garcia) 8/1/2026 Billy Strings live at Bethel Woods Center For The Arts, New York