Batiste is the rare bandleader who treats a stadium like a street parade — he has been known to march the band off the stage and into the crowd — and Forest Hills, an open-air bowl surrounded by mock-Tudor houses, is exactly the venue that rewards it. Cautious Clay opening adds a genuinely complementary set rather than a warm-up. This is the outdoor concert of the weekend for anyone who would rather hear a horn section than a drop.
What to expect
An outdoor stadium show with reserved seating and a general-admission floor area, food and drink concessions along the concourse, and gates opening well before the opener. Sound in the bowl is strong from almost every seat. Sets run into the evening under open sky.
Good to know
- The LIRR to Forest Hills or the E/F/M/R to 71st Avenue both leave a short walk to the gates
- Getting out is slower than getting in; the LIRR platform backs up right after the encore
- The venue sits in a residential neighborhood with strict noise curfews, so shows end on time
- Bag policy is enforced at the gates — travel light
- It is fully open-air, so check the forecast and bring a layer for after dark
- Concessions are on site and outside food is generally not permitted
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Common questions
Who is opening for Jon Batiste?
Cautious Clay opens the Forest Hills Stadium show.
Is Forest Hills Stadium covered?
No, it is fully open-air. Shows go ahead rain or shine unless the venue announces otherwise.
What is the easiest way to get there?
The LIRR to Forest Hills station or the E, F, M or R subway to 71st Avenue; both are a short walk from the stadium gates.
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