On Tuesday, November 18th, we had the chance to check out the new TD Coliseum in Hamilton for a very special concert — Earth, Wind & Fire live. The moment we walked in, it was clear the renovation had completely refreshed the venue, creating a modern, welcoming space that handles big crowds while still feeling personal and fun. Big thanks to the City of Hamilton’s Creative Industries and Culture team for providing the tickets and making the experience possible.
Here’s a closer look at our experience, from food to sound to the overall vibe.
First Impressions of the New TD Coliseum
Stepping into the lower bowl, the first thing we noticed was the sheer number of people — it felt like half of Hamilton was there! Even with the large crowd, the updated layout made moving around easy. The ushers were on point, guiding people smoothly to their seats, and it never felt chaotic despite thousands of attendees. The new TD Coliseum definitely feels like a space built for both big shows and comfortable experiences.
Food & Concessions That Go Beyond Popcorn
One of the things that really stood out is how far the TD Coliseum’s food options have come. This isn’t just hot dogs and popcorn anymore — the venue now features a mix of local and specialty vendors. We spotted Matty’s Patty’s, Sugar and Salt, Fizzy Feathers, Soy, Cast Escobar, and more.
We also checked out the Vinyl Room, which instantly felt like a cozy little lounge with dim lighting, modern décor, and a central bar. People were relaxing and enjoying themselves before the show — it’s a perfect spot to grab a drink or hang out before heading to your seat. The TD Lounge also offers premium dining for anyone looking for a fancier pre-show meal.
Stage & Lighting That Elevate the Show
Once we were in the lower bowl, the upgraded stage and lighting really impressed us. The stage sits about 5–6 feet high, so even folks farther back still had a great view. Speakers were positioned to make sure sound reached every corner of the arena.
The lighting rig is powerful enough for full-scale arena effects, and Earth, Wind & Fire made excellent use of it — vibrant funk colours, crisp spotlights, and smooth transitions kept the energy high without ever feeling overwhelming. The production alone shows how the new TD Coliseum in Hamilton is designed for big concerts.
Sound Quality That Hits Every Note
If there’s one area where the TD Coliseum renovation really shines, it’s sound. The audio was full and clear, perfectly balanced for such a large space. Vocals were crisp, horns cut through, and the bass carried without ever getting muddy. There were no echo issues or distortion — just clean, powerful sound that did justice to a legendary band like Earth, Wind & Fire.
Friendly Staff & Great Crowd Experience
Every staff member we met was upbeat and helpful, from ushers to concession workers. The new TD Coliseum feels welcoming, organized, and genuinely focused on giving attendees a good time. It’s clear the renovations weren’t just cosmetic — they enhanced the whole experience, making concerts smoother and more enjoyable.
Final Thoughts: Why You Should Visit the New TD Coliseum in Hamilton
Our night at the new TD Coliseum in Hamilton left a lasting impression. Between upgraded food options, solid production, excellent sound, and friendly staff, it’s clear this venue is ready for Hamilton’s next era of live music.
Whether you’re a local music fan or visiting the city, the renovated TD Coliseum is now a must-visit destination for concerts, shows, and big events. Seeing Earth, Wind & Fire live there was the perfect way to experience all the improvements firsthand.
