Q Casino Announces Their First Back Waters Amp Show

The buzz around Dubuque just got a whole lot louder as electric summer nights begin to arrive in Dubuque. The brand new Back Waters Amp is getting ready to open its gates for the first time, and it is starting things off in a big way. The first announced show brings in country with a bit of southern rock as Whiskey Myers takes the stage on July 4th, 2026, with Taylor Hunnicutt kicking things off on your Independence Day evening.

If you have spent any time along the Mississippi, you already know Schmitt Island offers one of the better backdrops in the region. That is exactly where Back Waters Amp will sit, giving concertgoers a mix of live music and river views that feel pretty hard to beat on a hot Iowa night. The venue can accommodate up to 8,000 people, with a setup that can flex between seated sections and open lawn space. Whether you like to be up close or spread out with a blanket and a drink, there should be a spot that fits your style.

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The amphitheater operates alongside Q Casino + Resort, which means a full night out doesn't end when the encore does. Food, drinks, and even a place to stay are all within walking distance of this soon-to-be state-of-the-art venue. That kind of setup is something folks rarely get around here: convenience like that definitely adds some extra draw for out-of-town visitors and those hoping to squeeze the most out of their visit to Dubuque.

Now about that opening night. Whiskey Myers brings a reputation for loud, high-energy shows that mix Southern rock with country grit.

With billions of streams and a track record of sold-out crowds, they are about as solid a choice as you can make to christen a new stage.

Fans of shows like Yellowstone have likely already heard their sound, whether they realized it or not.

Taylor Hunnicutt will set the tone early with a raw, road-tested style that leans into classic Southern influences. She's the kind of opener that gets the crowd warmed up in a hurry.

Tickets go on sale starting April 3, with several presale options leading up to it. Prices range from lawn seating to pit access, so there is a little something for every budget.

All in all, this feels like a strong start for the new Back Waters Amp. It brings a fresh energy to Dubuque’s music scene and gives folks another reason to head down to the river this summer. If opening night is any indication, this place plans to stay rockin'.