The City of Long Beach has begun searching for a company to manage and operate a temporary amphitheater to be built near the Queen Mary on the downtown waterfront.

The Department of Economic Development issued a request for proposals (RFP) on August 5, inviting qualified companies to submit their bids.

“Long Beach is elevating its status as a premier entertainment and tourism destination in Southern California,” Mayor Rex Richardson said in a public statement. “The new Long Beach Bowl will be an iconic music venue on our beautiful waterfront, highlighting the spirit and culture of our community and bringing people together for concerts and festivals, further enhancing our landscape and boosting our local economy.”

The amphitheater, a state-of-the-art venue, will span approximately 6 to 8 acres along Queens Highway and will be located between the Queen Mary and Harry Bridges Memorial Park. The venue is designed to accommodate up to 12,000 people and will host a variety of live events featuring major international and local artists.

The selected company will be responsible for all aspects of the venue’s operations, including booking, programming, marketing, staffing, logistics and noise control, ensuring the highest industry standards are maintained.

“It’s exciting to begin construction on our own amphitheater – something that will achieve iconic status and provide a great destination for both locals and tourists,” said First District Councilwoman Mary Zendejas in a public statement. “Music unites and inspires people, and we look forward to welcoming people from all over to share that spirit with them.”

The amphitheater is intended to be a temporary structure and will operate for five years, with the possibility of an extension as the city considers building a permanent amphitheater in the future. The temporary project is expected to be completed by summer 2025.

“We are building the next great international city, unleashing the creative economy through music, sports, tourism and hospitality like never before,” said Bo Martinez, director of the Department of Economic Development, in a public statement. “The new amphitheater will provide a vibrant experience for local visitors and tourists, with the spectacular downtown skyline and waterfront as a backdrop.”

Interested companies must submit their proposals electronically through the city’s Long Beach Buys supplier portal by 11 a.m. on September 24. Questions can be emailed to the city at [email protected].