The venue was originally constructed in 1983 as the Finger Lakes Performing Arts Center.
The facility is situated on 30 acres of land donated by the Marvin Sands family.
CMAC is unique for being located on a college campus while functioning as a major professional concert venue.
The roof structure covers 5,000 seats, protecting attendees from inclement weather.
The amphitheater hosts the Rochester Philharmonic Orchestra for annual summer performances.
CMAC, or Constellation Brands-Marvin Sands Performing Arts Center, is a 15,000-capacity outdoor amphitheater located on the campus of Finger Lakes Community College in Canandaigua, New York. The venue features a covered pavilion with reserved seating and a sloped grass lawn for general admission concert viewing. It serves as a primary regional destination for national touring acts in music, dance, and comedy. The facility utilizes a state-of-the-art acoustic system designed to complement the outdoor setting near Canandaigua Lake. Since its inception, the venue has undergone multiple expansions to accommodate increasing ticket demand and improved production infrastructure. It is operated by the Finger Lakes Performing Arts Center, Inc., a non-profit organization dedicated to cultural enrichment. The site is integrated into the surrounding parkland, providing views of the Finger Lakes landscape during performances.
The elevated walkway at the top of the lawn section, which captures a panoramic view of the stage with the trees and sky in the background.
Bring a low-profile lawn chair or blanket if you purchase tickets for the general admission grass area.
Check the venue's prohibited items list before arrival, as it strictly limits bag sizes and types of containers.
Arrive early to navigate the campus parking lots, which can take time to exit after major sold-out shows.
Do not attempt to bring professional cameras with detachable lenses or outside food and beverages, as these are prohibited at the gates.
The venue is strictly seasonal and operates only during the spring, summer, and early autumn months; it is closed during the winter.
Dress for variable outdoor weather; remain seated in pavilion sections to ensure views for others behind you.
