Get ready to scream, cry, and lose your voice because Sombr’s You Are the Reason Tour is officially rolling into Pittsburgh at PPG Paints Arena on November 12. Whether you’re planning to camp out at dawn for a barricade spot, praying to the concert gods that Sombr takes a seat in the empty chair right next to you during his set, showing up just in time to catch openers Hannah Jadagu and Disney royalty Dove Cameron, or simply a parent taking their excited kiddo to their first concert, we’ve got your back. From bag policies to stress-free transit and parking hacks to pre-show smash burgers and late-night cocktail spots where you can process all your emotional damage, here is your ultimate guide to surviving and thriving when Sombr comes to town.

Your Concert Guide to Sombr at PPG Paints Arena in Pittsburgh

Door and Show Times

It’s going to be a regular concert showtime for Sombr at PPG Paints Arena with the show starting at 7 p.m. Doors should open at least an hour beforehand so plan to arrive around 6 p.m. so that you have plenty of time to get into the arena and find your seat. Though, if you have general admission floor tickets, you may want to arrive in the afternoon to line up if you plan on trying to get close to the barricade.

But, if you can’t get there right at 6 p.m. don’t worry, Sombr has two different openers so he won’t be hitting the stage until around 9 p.m.

Buying Tickets

Tickets are still available for Sombr’s show at PPG Paints Arena in just about every section. If you’re looking to get as close as possible, opt for either the general admission left and right pit tickets for $153.10 or tickets near his B stage at the back of the arena in sections 106, 107, or 108 that avearge at around $100. But, if you don’t feel up to splurging, you may still get lucky since Sombr has been known to take a seat inside the lower bowl sections for one of his songs. Next thing you know, Sombr could be sitting in that empty seat right next to yours.

Overall, the cheapest though are up in the 200s sections. While these tickets put you all the way at the top of the arena, the seat will only cost you $51, a steal of a price to see such a big artist.

Bag Policy

PPG Paints Arena strictly enforces a small-bag policy, allowing only clutches, wristlets, or wallets measuring 4″ x 6″ x 1″ or smaller. Medical equipment and diaper bags are permitted, though they must undergo X-ray screening upon arrival. Additionally, guests cannot bring in outside food or beverages, professional cameras featuring detachable lenses, full-face masks, or audio/video recording equipment.

Getting to PPG Paints Arena

Parking Info

Finding a parking spot near PPG Paints Arena is easy with a few key strategies:

• Free Transit Option: Take advantage of the T light rail, which offers free rides from the Station Square, First Avenue, or Wood Street stops directly to Steel Plaza Station near the venue.
• On-Site & Premium Lots: The PPG Paints Arena garage and the surface lot across Centre Avenue offer the closest access, but expect higher event pricing (typically $30–$60 for big concerts).
• Downtown Garages: Facilities like the Chatham Center, U.S. Steel Building, and BNY Mellon Center Garages are just a 5- to 15-minute walk away, offering lower rates and smoother exits after the event.

For more detailed information on parking, check out our guide to PPG Paints Arena.

Public Transportation

Leave the car behind and get to PPG Paints Arena stress-free using these transit alternatives:

• The T Light Rail: Ride directly into Downtown from South Hills Village, Castle Shannon, or other suburban stops.
• PRT Bus Lines: Catch frequent service via routes 61A, 61B, 61C, 61D, 71A, 71C, 71D, 81, or 83.
• Rideshare Services: Set your destination to the dedicated Uber/Lyft zone at Wylie Avenue and Fullerton Street.
• Safety First: Utilizing transit or rideshare ensures a safe ride home for anyone planning to drink at the show.

Who Are the Openers?

Sombr has two openers before he hits the stage. The first is Hannah Jadagu who kicks the whole show off at 7 p.m. She’s a bedroom-pop artist who perfectly matches the synths and soothing harmonies of Sombr. Her music is sort of like if you threw Olivia Rodrigo into a 2010s coming-of-age movie. If you’re a fan of Olivia, Sombr, Clairo, and Beabadoobee then you’ll want to arrive to the venue in time to catch her set and especially listen to her single My Love.

The second opener for Sombr is Dove Cameron and if you were at all a Disney Channel kid then you’ll definitely recognize that name. Once a child actress in Liv and Maddie as well as the Descendants movies, Dove Cameron now makes her own music that’s centered around the pop genre but also incorporates parts of gothic and alternative music. Its a little rock-esc and sure to get the audience hyped up for the beginning of Sombr’s set. For an idea of what to expect, check out her single do the math, it’s equal parts badass, powerful, and heartbreaking.

The Setlist

Sombr’s You Are the Reason Tour is already underway so thankfully we have an idea of what will be on the setlist. For this tour, he’s playing nearly every song off of his album I Barely Know Her. You’ll for sure here the hits like 12 to 12 and undressed but canal street and dime are both tracks you might not get to hear depending on what his special selection is for Pittsburgh. On top of the album, he’ll also be playing his newer singles My Body Isn’t Ready, Homewrecker, and potential. Needless to say, you should hear just about every you could wish for as well as some deep cuts thrown in from time to time like Caroline and would’ve been you.

Navigating the Venue

PPG Paints Arena operates entirely as a cashless, mobile-entry venue, meaning you must present your tickets on a smartphone and pay with digital or card payments. While cash-to-card kiosks are available on site, bringing credit or debit cards is the smoothest approach.

The arena features dedicated restrooms, concessions, beverage stands, and merch booths on every concourse, making it easy to find what you need near your seats. Head up to the second level for the 100-level sections or the third level for 200-level seating. Concession choices range from classic venue staples like hot dogs and pretzels to regional specialty foods, though individual menu items vary by stand.

Where to Eat Before or After the Show

While we’re suckers for an arena hotdog, we don’t blame you if you’re looking for something a little more filling. Just a short walk from PPG Paints Arena there are plenty of places where you can grab a bite and a cocktail before or after the show.

Dinner Before

• Moonlit Burgers Uptown: Located a quick five-minute walk from the arena, this laid-back eatery specializes in classic smash-style burgers loaded with griddled onions, paired with crispy shoestring fries and rich milkshakes.
• Ritual House: Stroll 10 minutes into Downtown to the historic Union Trust Building, where this vibrant spot serves creative global flavors, refined comfort dishes, and handcrafted cocktails.
• The Commoner: Tucked inside the Kimpton Hotel Monaco just 11 minutes away on foot, this rustic tavern focuses on wood-fired, seasonal local fare alongside an impressive craft beer selection.
• Chinatown Inn: A short 10-minute walk brings you to this storied Downtown institution, known for serving traditional, family-style Chinese dishes made for group dining before an event.
• Condado Tacos: Looking for something quick that you can pick-up in a hurry? Order tacos, nachos, or a burrito bowl ahead of time and walk down near the convention center, about 10 minutes away to pick up your order.

Food or Drink After

• The Warren Bar & Burrow: A reliable Downtown hot spot featuring an expansive spirits selection, expertly crafted cocktails, and a full kitchen serving food late into the night.
• Space Bar: Located in Market Square, this futuristic cocktail lounge offers cosmic-themed drink flights and small plates inside a fully immersive, sci-fi environment.
• Täkō: This Downtown destination serves gourmet street tacos and an extensive collection of tequilas in a high-energy, late-night atmosphere.
• Howl at the Moon Pittsburgh: Looking to keep dancing and singing the night away? This dueling piano bar in Downtown has live music every night they’re open, playing all the top hits and even taking audience requests.

What to See in Pittsburgh While You’re Here

Since you’re already in the city (and most likely parked), explore Downtown or head to the North Side, The Strip District, or Lawrenceville to browse some of the coolest retailers in Pittsburgh.

• The Silly Goose: A fresh addition to Pittsburgh, this playful gift shop focuses on feel-good items, stocking its shelves with punny graphic tees, embroidered animal hats, quirky novelties, and a wide collection of goose-centric gear.
• The Government Center: Equal parts record store, coffee house, and bar, this North Side spot is a must-visit for music fans. Browse an extensive vinyl collection spanning new drops and rare finds, then grab an espresso or a craft drink from the bar—making it an ideal stop to pick up a record before heading to a show.
• Steel City: Make your way over to the Strip District to visit this iconic local apparel shop. All the brand’s products celebrate Pittsburgh’s culture with ultra-soft, vintage-inspired tees, cozy sweatshirts, and retro sports gear. Stop in to grab a unique local souvenir before your event or quality essentials like button-downs and jeans.
• Wildcard: Over in the walkable neighborhood of Lawrenceville, Wildcard is a specialty gift shop that has just about everything you could imagine and more. Pick up local books, goofy-shaped cooking utensils, stickers made by local artists, cute embroidered hats, stylish notebooks, and of course, Pittsburgh souvenirs.

Have more questions heading to the show? Check out our guide to PPG Paints Arena.

About the Author

Kylie Thomas is TABLE Magazine’s Online Editor, covering Pittsburgh food, drink, and going out, including the Things to Do in Pittsburgh column. A Point Park University graduate, her work has also appeared on The Takeout, QBurgh, and Empire Extreme. She also runs the photography business Photos by Ky. 

Photo From Sombr

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