The Rose Bowl came alive once again—but this time, not with football, but with the electrifying sound of legendary rock band AC/DC. The Australian rock giants shook the iconic stadium on April 13, 2025, with their power-packed “Power Up” tour, marking one of the most memorable live concerts the stadium has hosted in years. As the smoke cleared and guitars faded, fans agreed: the Rose Bowl had never sounded better.
AC/DC’s Thunder Returns: A Night to Remember at the Rose Bowl
After nearly a decade without a U.S. tour, AC/DC returned with explosive energy. The Rose Bowl was the perfect venue—its history and sheer capacity matched the magnitude of the moment. With more than 90,000 fans packed in, the atmosphere buzzed with nostalgia and excitement.
Here’s what made the night unforgettable:
- Setlist Firepower: Classics like “Back in Black,” “Highway to Hell,” and “Thunderstruck” shook the stadium to its core.
- Stage Design: Complete with blazing fire columns, massive LED walls, and trademark cannons.
- Special Tribute: A moment of silence and visuals honoring the late Malcolm Young.
The crowd sang every word, and the band—though older—didn’t miss a beat. Angus Young’s signature schoolboy outfit and duck-walk moves earned standing ovations all night.
Why the Rose Bowl Was the Perfect Stage
Built in 1922, the Rose Bowl is a historic monument in Pasadena, California. Though known primarily for college football and the annual Tournament of Roses, it’s also a landmark for music history. Artists like U2, Beyoncé, and now AC/DC have elevated the venue’s legacy.
The stadium’s natural acoustics and large-scale capacity make it a favorite for mega-events. But there’s more:
| Feature | Why It Stands Out |
|---|---|
| Seating capacity | Over 90,000 fans can attend |
| Historic value | Nearly a century old |
| Location | Centrally located in Southern California |
| Flexibility | Perfect for both sports and concerts |
The Rose Bowl has always been more than just a football arena—it’s a cultural landmark.
Security, Parking, and Fan Experience
Security was tight, but fans praised the event for smooth entry and well-organized check-ins. Pasadena PD and private event staff were well-prepared, ensuring everything moved quickly. Parking lots were full hours before the show, with fans tailgating and blasting AC/DC songs even before gates opened.
Key fan experience highlights:
- Plenty of food trucks and merchandise booths
- AC/DC-themed memorabilia exclusive to the event
- Free hydration stations to beat the heat
Even local residents who weren’t attending said the energy from the stadium could be felt blocks away.
Upcoming Events at the Rose Bowl
The AC/DC concert may be over, but the Rose Bowl isn’t slowing down anytime soon. Here’s a quick look at upcoming events:
- July 4, 2025 – Americafest Fireworks Spectacular
- August 23, 2025 – UCLA Bruins Home Opener
- September 14, 2025 – Coldplay’s “Moonlight Tour” Stop
Each event brings a unique audience, but all contribute to the Rose Bowl’s ongoing popularity as one of America’s premier entertainment venues.
What Fans Are Saying Online
“Best concert of my life. AC/DC still has it. The Rose Bowl was the perfect arena.” – Twitter User @RockNRollMama
“Nostalgia overload! Hearing Thunderstruck live with 90,000 fans was goosebumps.” – Reddit user u/BrianJ72
“AC/DC at the Rose Bowl—bucket list item, checked. This is what live music is all about.” – Facebook Comment
Social media exploded with videos, pictures, and heartfelt comments. The energy of the night still echoes online.
Why You Shouldn’t Miss the Next Rose Bowl Concert
Whether it’s classic rock or pop, concerts at the Rose Bowl deliver a high-voltage experience. Here’s why:
- You’re part of music history.
- The atmosphere is unmatched.
- Accessibility from LA and surrounding cities is easy.
- It’s not just a show—it’s an event.
From the moment you walk into the stadium until the last encore, it’s a journey you won’t forget.
Final Thoughts: The Rose Bowl Delivers, Every Single Time
The AC/DC concert was more than just another tour stop—it was a legendary return that reignited live rock. With a venue as iconic as the Rose Bowl, magic was inevitable. It wasn’t just about loud music or bright lights. It was about connecting generations of fans and proving that true rock never dies.
So whether you’re a lifelong AC/DC fan or new to the scene, keep your eyes on the Rose Bowl calendar. Because when this stadium hosts an event, it turns into a celebration—and you’ll want to be part of it.