FAQ's
What is the bag policy?
Beginning Wednesday, September 14, 2022 the following clear bag policy will take effect:
- CLEAR plastic, vinyl or PVC bags no larger than 12" x 6" x 12" will be allowed
- style of clear bag does not matter as long as it does not exceed 12x6x12"
- Small clutch bags no larger than 4.5" x 6.5" (approximately the size of a hand) will be allowed and do NOT need to be clear
There is no restriction on the style of bag as long as it does not exceed the maximum size allowed. There is no storage or check-in for prohibited bags.
For patrons with young children in attendance, diaper bags are allowed and subject to search.
Where can I purchase tickets?
Tickets are available at the MVP Arena Box Office and online by selecting the event you are interested in attending on our events listing and clicking on the Tickets button. Depending on the event, online tickets may be available through either ticketmaster.com or axs.com. When available, only standard admission tickets may be purchased at the box office. View current Box Office hours here.
Occassionally, tickets are not available for purchase at the Box Office. The most common reasons for online only sales include: presales, offers, special request from the event/tour. If an event is sold out online, it is also sold out at the box office. If you are not sure, please feel free to contact us at info@mvparena.com or send us a message on Facebook.
We highly recommend only purchasing tickets through the above mentioned authorized ticket outlets. All other purchases from a ticket broker or third party will result in patrons not receiving event specific information and an increased likelihood of higher ticket prices. Additionally, MVP Arena is unable to assist with broker purchased tickets including but not limited to confirmation of legitimacy of tickets, reprint, refund (in case of cancellation).
What are the security procedures I need to know?
- All guests and their possessions are subject to search
- Metal detectors will be stationed at each entrance
- Prohibited items include but are not limited to: outside food and beverages, coolers, umbrellas, professional cameras, audio and video recording devices, weapons of any kind, backpacks, glass items, lasers and glowsticks, iPads, tablets, selfie sticks
- There is no storage or check-in for items turned away
- Please plan to arrive earlier than normal to allow for traffic, parking and security procedures
For more information, please visit our Security Procedures page
Are you a cashless facility?
Concessions do NOT accept cash. Cards, Apple Pay and Google Pay are accepted.
Concert merchandise stands do NOT accept cash. Cards and Apple Pay are accepted.
MVP Arena parking garage accepts both cash and cards.
Do you have a private space to nurse or pump?
Yes! MVP Arena is proud to offer a Mamava lactation pod to provide a private, comfortable space for breastfeeding parents to pump or nurse. Sponsored by MVP Health Care, the Mamava lactation pod is located on the atrium landing just outside the doors near sections 101/130. Need to step out to use the pod? Please let Security at that door know that you will be using the pod so you can return inside easily. Having trouble finding it? Please ask any of our security or guest services members for directions.
For easy access, download the free Mamava app for Android or iPhone and open the pod with a touch of a button. Click here to be directed to the app
Soft sided cooler bags and pumping equipment are allowed and subject to inspection. We do not have refrigeration or storage options.
What is the COVID-19 entry policy?
As of February 11, 2022, masks are no longer required. Patrons who are more comfortable wearing a mask are encouraged to do so. Patrons are not required to show proof of vaccination or a negative test result. PLEASE NOTE: individual shows may enforce stricter entry policies. Please visit the individual event page for the show you would like to attend to view its specific policy.
Do you offer free Wi-Fi?
Yes! Free Wi-Fi is brought to you by Family Danz. Once you arrive, find and connect to the available network labeled MVP free WIFI by Family Danz.
Do you offer phone charging stations?
Phone charging stations are available on the concourse courtesy of Upstate Ford Dealers.
Complimentary charging tables are located throughout the concourse for use with your own charging cable. Forgot your charging cable? Don't worry, two ChargeFuze stations are available on the concourse for battery pack/charging cable rental.
What is the camera policy for MVP Arena events?
As of December 12, 2015, professional cameras are no longer allowed at MVP Arena. Cameras with a detachable lens are considered to be professional. Non-professional cameras without removable lens and cell phones are permitted for picture taking. Individual events may enforce stricter camera policies. If there is a different camera policy, the information will be listed on the individual event page.
What is a "GA" ticket?
A GA or (General Admission Floor) means there are no seats. In other words, the event is standing room only, and your spot on the floor is based on a first-come, first-served basis. Wristbands are typically distributed when you enter the building with your GA ticket. You will need your ticket and your wristband (on your wrist) to get to and stay on the floor.
Are there any gluten free options at the concession stands?
Here is a complete list of our gluten free options and where to buy them:
- Popcorn - Capital Kitchen/Knickerbocker Grill/Northside Snacks/Stella Bar/Miller Lite Bar/Brewerytown Bar
- French Fries - Capital Kitchen/Knickerbocker Grill/Northside Snacks
- Chips & Queso - Eat Drink Taco
- Loaded Chicken Nachos - Eat Drink Taco
- Loaded Barbacoa Nachos - East Drink Taco
- Nachos & Cheese - Northside Snacks
- Sabrett Hot Dog (sans bun) - Capital Kitchen/Knickerbocker Grill/Northside Snacks
- Cheeseburger (sans bun) - Capital Kitchen/Knickerbocker Grill
- Assorted Candy - Capital Kitchen/Knickerbocker Grill
- Ice Cream - Sarchioto's
- Sno Cones - Sarchioto's
- Cotton Candy - Sarchioto's
*While we offer gluten-free menu options, we are not a gluten-free facility and cannot guarantee that menu items are 100% free of gluten, as there is always a possibility of trace amounts crossing over from other kitchen areas. Please consider this when ordering from our menu.*
Why do I sometimes find events listed on an artist's Website before it's posted on the MVP Arena site?
A lot of times, information announcing a concert to be held at MVP Arena will be posted on a band's Website, and not on the MVP Arena site. We do not post any tour information or announce shows at the Arena until we have a signed contract from all parties. In the past, tours have announced shows coming into the Arena and, due to unforeseen circumstances, subsequently cancelled the date. We only tell you about upcoming events when we have the signed paperwork.
Where are suites/box seats located?
Suites are located at the top of the inner bowl of the Arena. Suites are rented on a three-year lease basis (they are currently sold out). If you have tickets for a suite, ask a security guard for assistance. He/she will escort you to your suite.
Can I bring food or beverages into the Arena?
No. Outside food and beverages are not allowed inside the Arena. However, there are tasty treats of all kinds available inside the Arena, including pretzels, popcorn, french fries, and almost anything else your heart could desire. We do allow common sense to prevail when dealing with patrons with special dietary/medical needs.
At what age are children required to have a ticket?
For most performances, all children over the age of two (2) must have a ticket. Children under two (2) without a ticket cannot take a seat; they must sit on your lap. For family-type shows (e.g., Sesame Street Live), everyone who is one (1) year old and over needs a paid ticket.
How do I get handicapped seating for events at the Arena?
Handicapped seating is available by request through the MVP Arena Box Office during normal business hours (M-F 10am-4pm) by calling (866) 308-3394. For additional information, see our Accessibility page.
How do I become an E-Newsletter subscriber? What are the benefits?
You can easily join the MVP Arena E-Newsletter by clicking the "E-Newsletter" button in our Website header and filling out the simple form. There are so many benefits to being a member! For starters, you'll get concert and show announcements delivered right to your e-mail inbox. Plus, you'll be invited to join in available presales and contests for ticket upgrades and free tickets. The best part is - it's FREE! You'll get all the inside tips on upcoming events...and you don't have to pay a penny.
Where can I get information about hosting my event/conference at MVP Arena?
Please contact us for all inquiries about renting the MVP Arena by sending a message via our contact form or call the Arena general information line at (518) 487-2000.
Who owns MVP Arena?
MVP Arena is owned by Albany County.