The Anthem is magical; very magical. Located on the Wharf in Washington D.C., the Anthem has been one of the best places I have seen a concert, period. The design of the venue, the acoustics, the positioning of the bathrooms, the incredibly friendly and attentive staff that attended to any concert-goers having health issues and passing out water, and the bars located on both sides of the venue; the Anthem knows how to put on a show. They can pack a lot of people into the venue between the GA floor space and the seating options on the second and third levels. My wife and I went to the Anthem to check out Death Cab for Cutie and The Postal Service concert, and we would fly back to D.C. to see more shows here. The people are friendly, the staff are accommodating, access to the bathroom is easy, and you felt like you could enjoy the show without feeling people on top of you. If you are looking for food, there are plenty of restaurants in the surrounding area that you can hit up before and after the show at the Anthem. read more

See all

This is a fantastic venue. It is new, modern, and spacious. From the website, it sounded like seating was available for the Fontaines DC concert. The website stated that seating was "first-come, first-served." I envisioned a venue with plenty of available seating. However, when I called, I was informed by the very nice representative that the seating arrangement changes based on the act and that there was no seating available at all. All seats were sold out, and the venue is mostly standing room only. There were plenty of tickets, but be prepared to stand for the entire show. If you arrive early, there are 3 levels and plenty of great spots to stand. We walked around to find the best spot for us, but then we had to claim it and park there all night. The venue does a great job of keeping people from standing in the aisles in front of you. Because we got there early, we ended up standing for over 4 hours. We knew this going in, but we also know that there are very few concerts we would be willing to stand for 4 hours, especially when we have a 2.5+-hour drive in each direction. There are plenty of bars and places to order food, drinks, and snacks. We had hot dogs and popcorn, which were decent, and we needed this since we didn't have time after our long drive to grab dinner before we entered the venue. It's the perfect venue for locals, not so much for those coming from out of town unless you are staying overnight. Parking is very difficult, and traffic is horrendous. I am fairly sure we got the very last parking spot in the garage after driving around for 15 minutes looking for one. The number of "open" parking spaces on the parking sign is completely incorrect, so don't rely on that. However, it was an excellent show, and now that we know all this information, we will make decisions accordingly. read more

This is a great venue! I'm always impressed with how quick and easy entry is. The line moves fast because they are well staffed and prepared to scan tickets and check IDs at multiple entry points. You're allowed to bring a small bag which will be searched upon arrival. There's also a coat check and bag check for $5 which seems reasonable. There are multiple bars on each level (I think I counted eight different bars total?) so lines move fairly fast there as well. Water is free and readily available at each bar. I noticed that drinks besides water are being served in sturdy reusable cups which is nice since I'm sure they were producing a lot more plastic waste in the past. I also appreciate the fact that if you have a GA ticket, you still have access to standing room in the balconies. You have a great view of the stage and the crowd (perfect for people watching) without having to be squished in between hundreds of people on the floor. There are plenty of parking lots nearby (although all are very expensive). Leaving was fairly easy but we also left before the encore to beat the rush. Otherwise, traffic can get pretty crazy once a concert lets out. The sound is great, bathrooms are clean, and the lighting and visuals are always pretty cool regardless of who you're seeing perform. I definitely recommend seeing a show at this well managed venue! read more

Love this venue, great sound and lighting for concerts while still having an intimate feel. The upper floors are box type seats you'd find in a play theater which makes great viewing for concerts without sacrificing any quality. The staff was very friendly and professional. I would recommend to friends and family. I look forward to seeing many more concerts here. Only drawback is it can be difficult to find parking at the very busy wharf tourist area. Metro is really the best way to go and the venue even encourages mass transit. read more

I went to see John Mulaney last night at the Anthem. Our show was supposed to start at 10pm. The first show got out late so we got no openers. Normally there are two openers, and then the main show. We also waited in line outside in 34 degree weather for more than 30 minutes. We sat in line for like 15 minutes and they then told us we weren't in line and sent us to another line. It wasn't well marked and that was incredibly disappointing. The way they got people seated was inefficient. The staff was not gracious in the least bit. Tickets were spendy and people were being seated still 20 or 30 minutes into his already incredibly late set. JM was hilarious, but this venue is too big for the location, there isn't a good process to turn over the space. The idea of having people wait an extra half hour beyond the purported start of a show, outside in freezing weather is pretty crappy. I won't see another show here. There are so many better venues. Again at a couple hundred a ticket I just expect a better experience, and nicer staff. I am annoyed with the experience. This may have been my only opportunity to see the comedian and it was less pleasant due to the venue's inability to make two shows happen in one night. read more

A lot to love here, but egregious crowd management ruined my night Came to DC specifically to see a concert, Keane 20th Anniversary tour. It was sold out. I had great seats, sixth row, right on the aisle, which is important, because I am very short and that aisle space gives me a good sightline when the rows in front of me stand up. I don't mind folks standing up, not at all, I plan for it, by getting an aisle seat. The venue is really cool, nice temperature, easy to find, lots of bars, restrooms etc. They give you a little certificate for your first show if you go to the coat check. Cute. The moment the concert started, things went haywire. The first four rows all stood up and RUSHED the stage. Thats fine, thats between them. What people in front of me do is not my business. The problem came when people from the BACK of the auditorium decided to try and join into that crowd, thinking the place had suddenly turned general admission. Dozens and dozens of people, all night long, coming from the back row, getting right in front of me. I confronted MANY of them. There were no ushers preventing this. Just little old me. But when someone stood on a chair, they came like a flash. So thanks, Anthem, for not enforcing seating. Thanks for letting me do it, playing traffic cop to keep my view, that I paid for and struggled mightily to keep. Not the memorable fun experience I wanted, at all. 10/10 won't visit this venue again. read more

Here's my deal... My specific experience was the Janelle Monae and Grace Jones concert. I enjoyed the layout of this spacious venue but here's the paradox. I paid more for what I thought would be nicer seats where my friends and I could sit down if and when we wanted to and not be in the crowded "pit" area. Granted this was my first time at this venue so I thought my assumption about seating was reasonable. Pay more for better seats. Not the case. My seats were in the nosebleed section basically, while the cheaper tickets could approach the stage and actually see the show up close. Our premium seats only got us a good view of the monitors and a hard chair. By the end of the show, pretty much any and everyone had come upstairs to sit down during Grace Jones' set after dancing to Janelle for dang near three hours! Janelle was fantastic!! That's just a warning about the tickets. I guess it depends on who you're going to see but I really wanted to see Janelle perform up close. Luckily she stayed in my hotel so I did get to see her. :) Otherwise there were bars everywhere inside so the lines were short. The bar and greeting staff were awesome. The Janelle and Grace fans were fantastic and because I stayed at the Pendry on the Wharf, the walk home was only a few minutes. There are also great restaurants all around for pre and post concert. I'll give the Anthem five stars because I don't think they promote or manage the ticket and seating arrangements and because the show was fire!! I recommend the Anthem for events. Beautiful, spacious and clean venue. read more

Beautiful venue. The staff and ushers are extremely friendly and helpful. All the bar tenders and barista were wonderful. Ticketmaster would show you booked a seat but majority of the seating is GA Standing which is also good so you can dance and get drinks/snacks without disturbing others , so call them or visit the box office and get the tickets directly incase you need seating . In rare cases, you can ask an usher during intermission and they may help you with a seat if available and standing is difficult. The venue is classy, all the food and drinks are of decent quality. Highly recommend this venue, acoustics were spot on and lights definitely will uplift you. Can also be a good date night location as long as opening artists aren't terrible and both of you like the main artists. Many eateries outside before you enter, so you aren't hangry during the concert. read more

See all

So I haven't been to a live show in a while, and the waterfront overall isn't really my speed. So I had measured expectations about what I was getting into. But I was completely won over by this place, not only the concert experience itself but the layout and operation. Ticketing was fast and easy, just scanning you at the door and quickly getting the crowd moving. The entrance, halls, and stairs are all large so there's no crush or bottlenecks where you get to smell some stranger's hair for 20 minutes, and no penguin stepping as a crush of people waddles through the doors. Instead, though we arrived with the bulk of the attendees, we breezed in with the crowd and easily navigated up the stairs to where we could stand and watch the show. The balconies are arranged so it's steep enough to get good views of the stage without any trouble, and I'm not the tallest person so that's notable for me. There are a lot of bars scattered around as well, so even with the crowd I wasn't missing a quarter of the show every time I grabbed a beer. And I really liked the mobile tab so we could expedite our orders then close out on my phone while walking out. That's a new-to-me thing at least and was really cool. I might go so far as to say I'm re-sold on the idea of live shows...? read more

So disappointed with the Anthem last night when we went to see John Mullaney. The line to get in went on for what felt like a mile and was so disorganized we were all seated 40 minutes late. The result was we didn't get what we paid for. Mullaney had to start right away without letting his 2 comics that begin the show have their sets because there is a curfew and Mullaney had to finish by a certain time. The Anthem should have made some kind of concession to the patrons for the loss of a portion of the show. In addition, because they serve drinks, people were up and down and up and down drinking and going to the bathroom and interrupting, coming and going in the incredibly tight rows which slowed things down a great deal, obscuring the view. Mullaney was GREAT! Not interested in going to the Anthem again. read more

The Anthem rules! Easy ingress/egress, and we arrived 30 minutes prior to the show and they do a great job managing the lines. Bathrooms were also easy to access and well marked! The sound and vibes are fantastic. And GA standing room is available on all 3 floors of the venue! Drinks are fairly priced - you can get a can of beer for $8 which for entertainment venues is reasonable! Go to a show here when you can! read more

See all

Gotta say this venue was a big surprise for me. I was gifted tickets to the Janelle Monae concert there and walked the 5 minutes from my home to attend. It's located in the Wharf District In SW DC. This area has become a hotbed of me and trendy restaurants and bars (Gordon Ramsey, Hanks Oyster Bar, Milk and Honey, etc.). I received my tickets electronically when they were released less than 12 hours before the start of the concert. I was a little uneasy about not having proof of confirmed tickets and seats earlier than that but I received emails from a reliable vendor (Vivid) and got my need for control issues promptly relieved . It was with alarm that I noticed the tickets said "SRO". I had a designated area but no assigned seat. I was positive that I would hate it. WRONG. This turned out to be one of the most enjoyable concerts I ever attended. One person in my party (who has been to more concerts than anyone I know) said he would talk it up there with the recent Pink and Lady Gaga concerts he attended. The venue has a bar on 2 off the read more

See all

Definitely the worst major venue in DC. Every single interaction I've had with the staff besides the people who scanned my ticket was incredibly rude to me. I'm sorry I don't inherently know my way around? I walked back to my seat feeling embarrassed about being lost. Also, please do not plan on driving here because the parking garages around the area will scalp you, had to lose $30 last night on that. read more

I came here with my daughter for a sold out show. Enjoyed the venue but be aware it is mostly general admission for most shows. We went up to the third floor and there is a decent amount of GA areas to watch from that offer good viewing for those that are vertically challenged (my 12 year old daughter)! Pretty organized entry and vending areas. I was impressed because they had plenty of free water offered at the bar areas. The only reason I am docking 1 star is because of the traffic leaving the venue. Absolutely no officials to help with traffic flow. read more

The Anthem - Tier D upper deck - Music Venues Near Me - Washington, DC, District of Columbia

See all

BLUF: Parking isn't easy but if you plan and arrive early you will enjoy yourself. There plenty of places to eat before a show. You can eat in the Anthem if you are up for bar food. Details: We arrived early but not early enough to eat at one of the places adjacent to the venue. The staff at the doors were helpful. The staff inside are also exceptional, just look for gray shirts. Bars on the left and right on two levels. Stagehands did well too. Great place for date night and friends night out. read more

I was with my friend watching The Neighborhood Preform and I started getting really dizzy so we pushed our way out and I was about to fall over so I leaned against a wall and sat down for a moment trying to catch my breath. These two staff from like 30 feet away start waving at me to stand up over and over meanwhile I could barely hold my balance and had walked over there holding my chest with one hand and using my friends arm to keep from falling, the two girls didn't even ask if I was okay. It's been a good venue in the past and they normally hand out little water cups from the barrier but this was really awful, I nearly vomited and blacked out from the heat and I got rushed out when trying to breathe. read more

I recently attend the Hasan Minhaj show at the Anthem last month and I only wish I was able to take pictures/videos to capture the evening! From start to finish I had an excellent time and thought the venue was really nice. When my friend and I first got there the line was pretty long to get in. Luckily the staff kept everything moving fairly quickly so we didn't have to wait outside long. Once we made it past the "initial" security that's when we were told we had to put our phones and watches into sealed bags to prevent any recording during the show (hence no pictures/videos). This is the first time I have ever experienced anything like that but luckily it didn't hinder my enjoyment of the venue or show. Once inside there was seating on the main floor and then also upstairs, but our tickets were in the "skyboxes" on the upper level. The seats were 10/10 and I highly recommend front row seats of the "skyboxes" when attending any sorts of shows. We had a great view, tight but comfortable seating, and multiple service bars to chose from. It was the perfect place for a comedy show and I have no complaints. I didn't try any of the food or drinks, but again there was easy access. I would definitely attend future shows at the Anthem and went as far as standing outside after the show to see what names popped up on the sign for shows for the remainder of the year! read more

The management of the Anthem treated me very fairly. I had bought tickets to a Jim Gaffigan show for my son as a Christmas gift. My son then moved away from the D.C. area, making the tickets unusable for us. When I explained the situation in an email, the Anthem graciously granted me a refund for the tickets. I appreciate the Anthem's decent and kind response. read more

The venue is very nice but I wish that they had a heavily enforced no smoking policy. I went to see Mariah the Scientist on Saturday night and numerous people were smoking. I am not a smoker and came out with my hair, clothing, and skin smelling like weed. I have severe allergy symptoms when it comes to being around weed and the smoke being an irritant to my respiratory system so now I'm under the weather. read more

This is a great venue. Located on the wharf. Primarily general admission standing room. But there are some seats too, which are reserved and cost more. There's a couple of bars on each level. Good beer list. Some food is available too. There's really no bad spot to stand (or sit) in the place. And the sound is incredible. read more

The Anthem - View from the furthest away point. - Music Venues Near Me - Washington, DC, District of Columbia

I recently went to the Anthem for the first time. What a great venue. Very organized entry. Caring staff (saw them hop over a barrier to help a girl having issues), passing out water to us down in front standing in GA. Sound was great. I traveled from Florida for the Postal Service and Death Cab for Cutie show but would definitely come back to see another show here. read more

See all

Went here for several concerts, I love it here. It's local and there are plenty of restaurants and bars near by.

I went for r&b ONLY event. I had VIP so I didn't have to stand in line however I hate the first come first serve seating but I do understand it. The staff were friendly. I didn't eat any food but I did have a few shots. The event itself was really fun. read more

The Anthem - R&B ONLY - Music Venues Near Me - Washington, DC, District of Columbia

I was at the Anthem for the R&B ONLY LIVE. We had such a great time. The DJ was Tiara Marie from LA. This was a huge R&B house party. The venue was several bars. The main bar near the T-shirt sales has really long lines. The bars in the dance floor area are also long, but they move quickly. Food can be ordered at these locations. I ordered a cocktail, burger and fries. Eat food item is sold separately. My drink was on point and food pick up next to the bar was efficient. Surprising so, the food was good! My good really enjoyed the fries. I'm definitely going to patronize this venue again soon! read more

See all

A more intimate setting with mostly standing area which was perfect for those wanting to dance. If you can't stand long I would suggest then securing the seats. Not really a place to eat if you coming to a concert but plenty of options for food outside the venue. I was with my teen and they stamped her hands since she was underage as they do sell alcohol. We had so much fun! Bathrooms were clean and the staff we came across from entry to security were all nice. We used Lyft as parking in this area is a nightmare and expensive. Enjoy! read more

The Anthem is a super cool venue that hosts all kinds of musical acts. I went on a very recent Monday with friends to see musical artist H.E.R. The area that surrounds Anthem is pretty cool. It seems pretty new, with cute shops and restaurants. The Pros: -Cool venue, nice and big. -Nice bartenders at the bar. I needed some water and they happily gave it. -Close to restaurants and the pier -Convenient parking garage underground Cons: -The lines are split between "checked concert goers" & unchecked and could cause confusion. The staff was pretty diligent, but it still felt a bit disorganized. - The security check was a bit laxed. If a person wanted to get away with bringing a small weapon in, they could definitely get away with it. -When artists approach the stage, surges can definitely happen. In the standing area, people tend to push their way to the front and it could cause a serious issue. If that's not your vibe, go for the orchestra seats. -If you come in with an umbrella, you must put it in a bucket with dozens of others. Many people left with an umbrella they did not come in with. Lol. All in all, I had a great time with my peeps. I'd go again. The cons I mentioned won't stop me from going back, but it will definitely help me to prep myself in the future. read more

See all

I went to see two shows here last week, it was my first (and second) time at this venue. The organization was impressive! They check your ID on the pier, over 21 gets a wristband and under gets a stamp. Then you go to the entrance for ticket scanning which also moved very quickly. Security is also fast and I like that they have that here. The staff was honestly so friendly and helpful. After the show, the bartenders put cups of water out you could grab as you left. The staff overall though I just can't say enough about, everyone was so cool. Would definitely come back! Recommend ubering to avoid garage traffic. read more

The Anthem - Music Venues Near Me - Washington, DC, District of Columbia

See all

Great spot for a concert with incredibly friendly and accommodating staff! From the ticket takers to the security to the bartenders to the cleaning staff to the ushers- all delightful. We grabbed some wine and an appetizer and ate on the roof, looking at the sunset over river. Beautiful view and delicious food. There are bars throughout the venue and lots of clean, accessible restrooms. The chairs are narrow and very close, so I would pick an aisle seat next time... perhaps even spring for a box seat. Saw the National Symphony Orchestra and it was just beautiful- so much talent on one stage, led by a very talented conductor. The String Queens opened and were so entertaining. Perfect evening! read more

See all

Great venue. The people might sit in the balcony because they're at a loud concert intending to sit and be unhappy as opposed to enjoying the music. Fries; recommend. Chicken tenders; trash. Worse than school lunch. Maybe try a burger. Great venue though. read more

Really cool venue. Loved the vibe on the inside. There were so many bars around the venue so you never had to wait long for a drink. They also have food, which our friends said was very good but we grabbed dinner before the show so we didn't eat. They had gender neutral restrooms which was great. The view from the balcony boxes was great. I feel like there's probably no bad seats in this house. Would love to catch another show here. Employees were also very friendly. read more

The Anthem - Music Venues Near Me - Washington, DC, District of Columbia

No doubt the greatest music venue in DC area. Why? Great selection of music Super friendly staff Easy to get to Plenty of Parking Great sound and lights Decent food Plenty of bars Plenty of clean restrooms Outdoor area with amazing view What's not to love? Will be back soon and often read more

The Anthem - Outside venue - Music Venues Near Me - Washington, DC, District of Columbia

See all

Outstanding venue with lovely, welcoming, knowledgeable ushers and staff on hand to REALLY make your experience the best !! Sanny was funny, warm and helpful as she helped us navigate the venue ! Her enthusiasm was contagious and really enhanced our Anthem experience ! THANKS Sanny !! read more

I absolutely loved this venue! My first time here was coming to see the amazing Seal! I love the location, it's a great area to get a bit to eat before the show. The food at the venue is also really good if you wanted to grab a light bite. Also, the staff here is so friendly and helpful. If I had any complaints it would've been nice if there was more seating outside of the Theater for eating. Also big screens would've been nice. Otherwise I can't wait to come back for another show! read more

See all

I recently came here for the first time and thought I had reached the entrance only to be asked to turn around and go to the end of the line which was about 2 blocks long. Thankfully the line moved fast and the staff were nice but also diligent about making sure people did not cut in line. Once I entered, the venue was beautiful and very spacious. I really enjoyed that you have the option to have a seat, stand on the main floor, or stand on one of the levels. The restrooms were very clean and I appreciate that staff was in there directing traffic and making sure the space did not get dirty. I did not get anything from the bar or try any food but the venue was great. As someone who is short, I would totally watch the next show from a standing area in the balcony (I watched the show through people's phones) read more

The venue is nice. Plenty of space w/ different levels. I was able to see the stage from the floor level. It did get crowded but it was definitely worth it for Giveon. I really enjoyed his performance & the experience. The bar offered reasonably priced food & drinks. Convenient location, not too far from the metro. I believe you have to pay for parking. I'd definitely see another concert here. read more

The Anthem - Music Venues Near Me - Washington, DC, District of Columbia

See all

I'm not understanding these poor reviews for The Anthem. I've been to several theater/event spaces in DC (not all, but MANY) and I was honestly surprised at how nice this venue was. Okay, so it's in the wharf which can be a pain to get to (it was freezing out and even if you take the metro it's a bit of a walk to the station) But 1) the seats are the biggest seats I've ever sat in. You ever sit in the seats at The Warner?! If I gained another pound I wouldn't be able to fit in them. I sat on the first balcony at The Anthem and the seats were very comfortable and 2) LOTS OF LEG ROOM! The leg room was unheard of. 3) I had a great view of the stage. I could see how some seats might have an obstructed view on the sides with the columns but tickets say obstructed view when you buy them. 4) It was clean. The whole place just looked spotless. 5) On that note, the bathrooms were spotless, and lots of them. 6) The drinks weren't crazy overpriced. $10 for a beer at a music venue is reasonable. I also got food and it was decent. It was a better option for me than spending lots of $$ at a nearby restaurant. Overall I thought this was a really nice venue read more

Great location, very good sight lines in the cheap seats, abundant beverage service so so sound. We were in the cheap seats and though far away our sight line was completely unobstructed. Bartenders and ushers were friendly and helpful. Security guy was an unhappy, rude a-hole. The line to get in 20 before showtime was ~100 meters! read more

The theater was very nice, easy to enter and exit. My friend and I saw Lindsey Stirling and were blown away by the show. Very nice venue near all kinds of good restaurants and other fun stores. read more

The Anthem - Music Venues Near Me - Washington, DC, District of Columbia

See all

Just wow! We did not know what to expect when we came to this venue. I go to a lot of concert venues in DC, and i think this one is my favorite! You can see the stage no matter where you are. They really thought about seating. They have bars and food on every floor it seemed, which is helpful so you don't have to go to far from where you were to find a drink. The atmosphere was just electric. We had such a great time and getting into the venue was super quick and smooth. The staff was so friendly and helpful when we needed help finding our seats. I highly recommend this venue. I hope more artists I like play here so I can go back. read more

See all

So impressed. The acoustics are amazing, every vantage point is great, and there are plentiful bathroom options. Tons of bars as well serving both food and drink at surprisingly reasonable prices. Pro tip - head to the third floor corner for the most unique bar option in the venue, a coffee bar that includes coffee cocktails. The venue offers about 200 reserved seats, aka "super excellent" tickets, plus room for about 5,000 people standing. It feels very intimate. I was skeptical but left very impressed. read more

The Anthem - Current view from the 2nd level balcony. - Music Venues Near Me - Washington, DC, District of Columbia