The excellent information below was posted by defcon (Chris) on Antsmarching.org.
What makes SPAC (Saratoga Performing Arts Center) a special venue?
I'll do this in chronological order, starting with the pre-show.
SPAC has some of the best tailgating on Earth... bar none... for any event. Although the authorities go through all the motions, as long as you aren't an asshole about it you can grill, drink, throw some Frisbee, hack, or do whatever your heart's content (or when they put their foot down and tell everyone to proceed into the venue, usually starting around 7:00). The tailgating is in a beautiful environment, fields and Saratoga Park's massive evergree flora and amazing beauty serve to highlight the experience.
Once you finish tailgating and head on in to the venue, you are awestruck at the design of the place - the balcony is unique, the venue blends perfectly into the surrounding area with strategically placed trees and natural landmark's that keep the place pristin and at one with nature. As you only begin to take in the place, you feel the energy of 25,000 people reach a crescendo as the headlining act takes the stage. Massive view screens provide a view of the stage from nearly anywhere in the venue. The acoustics are absolutely amazing, and there's almost no bad seat in the house.
Moreover, after an all too brief night of magic, you yearn for more as you march like a good little ant over the bridge, across the Avenue of the Pines, or otherwise back to your vehicle. The addiction begins. If you're a particularly heart person who is looking to throw in a little celebration in the mix, there are after-parties all over the place - campgrounds, hotels, bars obviously, and even in the lots themselves. Now for two day events such as DMB that usually fall on the weekend, it means 48 hours of partying for all interested parties. It's a good time!
