Questions & Answers

Can I purchase tickets at the door with a credit card or a check? Yes. Please be prepared to show us a photo ID.

When are advance tickets available in the outlets? We only sell advance tickets in the outlets for one show at a time. When we pick up tickets day of show for the current show, we drop off “new” tickets for the upcoming show.

If I can’t use my advance ticket will you refund my money? No, we do not offer refunds. However you can certainly sell or give your ticket to someone else. If we are holding your ticket at the door, please call us and let us know who is picking up your ticket.

Is a show really sold out? Many of our big name shows really sell out. We limit our seating to around 150 to make the show more enjoyable for our patrons and to comply with the Fire Marshal. So purchase your tickets in advance and don’t be disappointed. Occasionally you might have to wait outside for the crowd to thin out to get inside for an Ellington Friday show for the same reason.

Is there a dance floor? Dancing is encouraged and we try to leave space in front of the stage to accommodate our dancers.

Can I smoke at the Ellington? The Ellington is a non-smoking facility. You are welcome to smoke outside the building on our front porch or on the sidewalk.

Can I drink at the Ellington? The Ellington has a cash bar for all shows featuring a selection of beer, wine, mixed drinks and non-alcoholic beverages.

Is food available at the Ellington? Light appetizers are included in the admission price for Ellington Fridays. Snack mix is our usual Saturday fare.

Is there assigned seating? The Ellington is general admission, with all seating done on a first come, first served basis. Reserved seats are not available. Occasionally a table will be reserved for show sponsors; however, we try to keep these as limited as possible.

Is there an age limit?
Please, no children under 12, under 21 with parent.

Is there a dress code?
There is no official dress code. Just be sure to wear shirts and shoes. One of the nice things about the Ellington is that you will be appropriately dressed whether you dress up or dress down.

Where do I park?
There is lighted parking on either side of Rivermont Avenue near the Ellington. There is also parking on D Street and in the parking lot behind the Piedmont Center and Reggie Phelps Garage. Please be careful not to block any of our neighbors' driveways. Security patrols the parking area after dark - but remember that it is always smart to keep valuables out of sight inside your car.

Are there any restaurants close to the Ellington?
After the show if you still have the late night munchies, nothing beats The Texas Inn right down the Street (421 Main Street). There are also several more upscale retaurants downtown and on Rivermont Avenue. Mangia (2496 Rivermont Avenue) actually has a happy hour with affordable appetizers on Friday and Saturday from 10pm to 1am. And the Dahlia (2231 Bedford Avenue) is now open for business!

Is there any lodging close to the Ellington?
The Holiday Inn Select is within walking distance at 601 Main Street.

How can my favorite band get booked at the Ellington?
Our booking agents are always on the lookout for new bands. Many factors, including price determine what artists we can book. Ellington Fridays is our showcase for local bands. Please feel free to make suggestions by emailing This e-mail address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it .