About The Firmament
The Firmament is a live music concert venue in Greenville, South Carolina, situated at 5 Market Point Drive off Woodruff Road (upstatebusinessjournal.com ). It occupies the former Blue Fire Grill location (next to Whole Foods) and spans roughly 9,300 square feet (upstatebusinessjournal.com ). Designed with a broad 30×20-foot stage (upstatebusinessjournal.com ), The Firmament was built for mid-sized shows. Early reports noted a seating capacity of about 450–550, yet with general admission standing crowds have reached around 800 on packed nights (upstatebusinessjournal.com ) (wanderlog.com ). Local media quickly dubbed it a “popular gem” in Greenville’s music scene (wanderlog.com ), and it featured a full-service bar and kitchen right next to the stage (upstatebusinessjournal.com ) (wanderlog.com ). Inside, even specialty pizzas were served during concerts (wanderlog.com ) – a unique touch not found at many venues. The original owner, Andrew Peek, is a Greenville musician and promoter who had previously organized events like the Lazy River Fest (upstatebusinessjournal.com ). He envisioned The Firmament as a place for all genres – rock, hip-hop, funk, metal, and more – giving local bands and touring acts a larger stage (upstatebusinessjournal.com ) (wanderlog.com ). In January 2020 the venue announced on social media that it would be closing its doors after a final weekend of shows (www.wyff4.com ). Peek later launched a fundraiser to try to save the venue, describing a “massive bind” and financial strain in keeping it open (www.gofundme.com ). Nowadays The Firmament is often listed as permanently closed, so its future is uncertain – always check the latest status if you plan a visit.
Events and Programming
The Firmament hosted a wide variety of performances and events. Primarily a concert hall, it featured local Greenville bands alongside regional and national touring artists (upstatebusinessjournal.com ) (wanderlog.com ). Booking schedules were brisk: typically Tuesday through Saturday nights were active with concerts, with occasional special events on other nights (upstatebusinessjournal.com ). Genres ran the gamut – rock and metal acts, hip-hop and rap shows, even funk and electronic dance music – reflecting Peek’s goal of “music of all genres” at the venue (upstatebusinessjournal.com ). In practice, the venue’s calendar included metal and hard-rock tours (bands like Hellyeah, (həd) p.e., Bad Wolves, Nile, Insane Clown Posse, etc.), jam bands and funk (Lettuce, The Trifinity), EDM/dubstep DJs (Space Laces, Desert Dwellers), and regional favorites. (www.concertarchives.org ) (www.concertarchives.org ) It even hosted occasional comedy nights or theme parties. A travel guide noted that The Firmament “hosts a variety of artists from different genres and often features big-name shows” (wanderlog.com ). Promoter notes suggest shows often sold out quickly, so popular events (especially Friday and Saturday headliners) required advance planning.
Ticket prices varied by show: small local acts might have affordable cover charges or low-priced tickets ($10–$20), while bigger touring names often sold tickets in the $30–$50 range (with VIP or early-entry passes higher) (www.gofundme.com ) (wanderlog.com ). Exact pricing depended on the act’s draw and production needs. Occasionally, package deals or multi-show wristbands were offered for festival-type events. In short, The Firmament’s programming catered to a broad audience – from college students to adult music fans – and its ticket prices reflected the diversity of performers. The space could transform for acoustic showcases or high-energy rock shows, but most concerts were served as general admission standing-room, making for an intimate yet energetic crowd experience.
Tickets and Booking
Tickets for shows at The Firmament were typically sold through the venue’s official channels or promoting agencies. The venue itself did not handle online sales directly; instead, each event’s promoter would announce ticketing information on the show’s social media or via local event listings. Fans were advised to sign up for The Firmament’s newsletter or follow its social media presence to get alert notices when shows went on sale. For most shows, tickets went on sale weeks or even months in advance. Popular headliner gigs often had a presale (for fan club members or venue email subscribers) followed by a general on-sale date.
If tickets were not sold out online, a limited number could sometimes be purchased at the door on the night of the show (subject to availability). There was usually a will-call or box office window open on show nights, where you could pay cash or card. Because many events were all-age or 18+, even younger patrons could attend (when an event was listed as 18+ or all-ages, which the venue clearly posted). In summary, the best strategy was to buy tickets early through the advertised ticket outlet. If an event did sell out, the door line could be long and tickets sometimes appeared on resale sites (though official channels were always recommended). There were typically no special membership clubs or subscription passes, but some local groups occasionally organized bulk-ticket deals for campus organizations or fan communities. In all cases, advance planning was key – big shows at The Firmament often sold out days in advance.
Seating and Layout
The Firmament’s layout was an open hall with the stage at one end and the audience on the floor. There were no fixed seats on the main floor – most tickets were general admission standing-room. A few chairs or high-top tables might have been available against walls or at the rear for those wanting to sit or lean. The venue floor allowed a clear view of the stage from almost anywhere. A control desk (sound/lighting mix) was usually located mid-room or at the back – standing or sitting near the center line a little behind the soundboard often provided a balanced audio experience. For sightlines, the best view of the stage typically came from the center of the floor, about 10–20 feet back. Fans at the very front of the stage got the closest visuals and feel the bass and drums most directly, though it could be very loud and crowded in that area.
There was no true separate balcony or upper seating level. If there were any slightly raised sections (such as near the bar or side walkways), those areas gave a slight height advantage but limited capacity. Many concertgoers praised the venue’s sound system quality – with powerful speakers hung at stage corners and mid-room – saying they could hear clearly from even the back corner of the room. The acoustics were generally good for rock shows, although as with any club, standing immediately beside the large side speakers could be overwhelming. In practice, avoid standing directly under the big subwoofers (often stage front corners) if volume sensitivity is a concern. Because the entire audience shares one open space, acoustical coverage and sightlines were much better than in some older, oddly-shaped clubs. In short, pick your spot by taste: at the front for full immersion, a bit back & center for balanced sound, or edges/back for room to move and easier entry/exit.
Getting There and Parking
The Firmament was located at 5 Market Point Drive, Greenville, SC – right off Woodruff Road in a shopping center-style complex (upstatebusinessjournal.com ). If driving, it’s easily accessed via Interstate-85 (use Exit 46B or 47 for Woodruff/Pleasantburg) or I-385 (exit 40). From either interstate, follow signs to Woodruff Road and continue north/south as needed. The venue address corresponds to the parking lot on Market Point Drive next to Sticky Fingers and other businesses (upstatebusinessjournal.com ).
There was ample on-site parking available. The complex had roughly 139 dedicated parking spaces for The Firmament (upstatebusinessjournal.com ). On busy concert nights, overflow could park in adjacent lots (the center shares parking with neighbors). Nearby parking included the Whole Foods store lot (just a short walk), Otto Izakaya lot, or the larger Point Shopping Center behind the venue (upstatebusinessjournal.com ). All parking was free of charge; however, lots could fill up for sold-out shows, so arriving early (at least 30–45 minutes before doors) ensured a space near the venue. During shows, a rideshare drop-off was commonly used: cars could pull into the center driveway, drop passengers at the front door, and continue away to free up space. For public transportation, Greenville’s Greenlink bus service runs routes along Woodruff Road. Routes that service Woodruff Road stop within a block of the venue (near Whole Foods or at Pelham Rd). Check Greenlink schedules for lines that hop off at Market Point or Pelham. From the downtown area, the ride is roughly 10–15 minutes by car or taxi. Note that after late-night shows, transit options become limited, so plan your return trip (Uber/Lyft or taxi services) in advance.
Inside the Venue
Inside The Firmament, expect a lively concert hall atmosphere. The entrance led into the main room where the stage faced the crowd. Ticket-holders typically passed by a metal detector or bag check at the door for security. Coat check (for a small fee) was often available near the lobby for convenience, since the floor space left little room for jackets. The decor mixed industrial and modern club style: exposed beams, dark walls, and colorful stage lighting rigs. The club took pride in its sound and lighting system – owner Andrew Peek even boasted it was “the best sound system in the Southeast” (www.gofundme.com ). You should definitely bring hearing protection (many shows added small disposable earplugs at the door), as the bass could be intense up front.
Behind the stage area was a raised catwalk and cases for racks of speaker gear. The soundboard was typically at mid-floor (often at a rear table), so the engineer had a full perspective on audio as the night went on. On the sides of the room were brick walls, and the back end had a long bar. The bar served beer, wine, cocktails, and soft drinks; prices were comparable to other local music clubs (e.g. domestic drafts + craft beers in the $5–$8 range, cocktails around $8–$10). Staff were friendly and typically offered quick service so lines didn’t obstruct the crowd elements. Food-wise, The Firmament stood out by offering made-to-order specialty pizzas (thin-crust, wood-fired) and simple snacks from its kitchen (wanderlog.com ). Pizzas were ordered at a counter or pre-ordered and then picked up in the venue – a unique concept. Waist-high tables and stools around the sides were for eating and drinking between acts. Restrooms were located toward the back – one large men’s restroom with multiple stalls and urinals, one women’s restroom, each with at least one accessible stall. Rooms were kept reasonably clean during shows by staff.
The venue did not offer free Wi-Fi, so plan to have phone data if needed. Cell reception inside was generally usable (4G LTE) for normal use, though dense crowds could slow things at peak. Most fans used phones freely for texting, browsing, and casual photography. Flash photography and professional cameras (any lens greater than a 3-inches) were not allowed during shows – cameras were checked at the door. You could safely use a smartphone or compact camera from the crowd. There was no cloakroom for bulky equipment or sound/lighting cues once the show started; the bar area and corners were used for storing items during performances. Overall, the vibe inside was casual and inclusive – a mix of college students, local music fans, and travelers. Artwork on the walls and video screens sometimes displayed animated visuals during music intros. On the whole, expect a gritty yet energetic club atmosphere, with a strong emphasis on the live show experience.
Nearby Amenities
The Firmament’s Woodruff Road location put it among many shopping and dining options, making pre- or post-show outings convenient. Adjacent to the venue was The Point shopping plaza, which included chain restaurants and fast-casual spots. Within a block or two you’ll find congregations of popular eateries: Sticky Fingers Smokehouse (BBQ) right next door (upstatebusinessjournal.com ), Otto Izakaya (sushi), Bonefish Grill, Outback Steakhouse, and local cafes like The Daily Fresh and Travelogy (coffeehouse). For something quick and casual, there was a Jason’s Deli and a McAlister’s Deli up the road, and Whole Foods (with a to-go food bar) literally attached to the same center (upstatebusinessjournal.com ). If you want craft cocktails before a show, the Flying Goat Steakhouse had a full bar about a five-minute walk away. Late-night bars are sparse in this suburban area – the nearest full bar (besides The Firmament’s own) was a Sports Bar & Grill near Pelham Road or an Applebee’s bar near Haywood Mall.
Hotels are not immediately adjacent, but there are plenty of lodging options within a short drive. Downtown Greenville (about 10–15 minutes away) has major hotels (Hyatt Regency, Aloft, Westin, etc.) if you prefer the city center. Closer by, near Haywood Mall or Woodruff Road one finds chain hotels like Hilton, DoubleTree, and La Quinta (around 5 miles away). Many concertgoers who travel choose downtown Greenville for nightlife after shows. For local residents, staying in the suburbs is less common unless heading to other attractions, so most out-of-town guests use the downtown corridor.
If you have time before a show, locals recommend arriving at least 30–45 minutes early. A typical strategy is dinner around Woodruff (to avoid the concert crowd) and then heading to the venue. Security lines usually start forming about 20–30 minutes before doors open. After shows (especially weekend nights), the area quiets down – it’s wise to have a planned ride home (Uber/Lyft or driving) as sidewalks and crosswalks can be dark. There’s no late-night transit in this area, so calling a car service or a friend for pickup is best. Greenville does have a designated rideshare pickup zone near The Firmament’s entrance – parking spaces along the curb were used for Uber/Lyft drop-offs and pick-ups, which helped clear traffic quickly.
What Makes This Venue Special
The Firmament stood out in Greenville’s entertainment scene for many reasons. First, it was one of the few venues in the area dedicated solely to live music of all kinds – filling a gap between small bar gigs and large arena shows. Being relatively new (opened in 2018), it brought a modern and big-space feel that local older clubs lacked. Architecturally, it wasn’t ultra-ornate, but its open-plan industrial design and quality acoustic treatment made concerts feel “big” even in a modest footprint. Culturally, it became a gathering spot for the local music community. Fans praised its inclusivity: owner Peek emphasized creating a safe, friendly environment, and supporters described the crowd as friends and “family” (www.gofundme.com ). Indeed, Peek once wrote on social media how “incredible people” at The Firmament had become “family” over time (www.gofundme.com ), reflecting how tight-knit the fanbase felt.
In terms of unique features, the pizza kitchen earned The Firmament a quirky fame – few venues offer made-in-house meals during shows (wanderlog.com ). The sound system and lighting rigs were top-notch for the region; performers often commented on the clarity and power of the audio system (Peek himself touted it as the best in the Southeast (www.gofundme.com )). The vibe blended Southern hospitality with rock club energy, making it a comfortable place for fans of all ages to enjoy loud music and good food. Numerous local acts got their break there, and it helped lure national touring bands to Greenville. While it had a relatively short run, many considered its packed shows and loyal crowd legendary – from sold-out indie band nights to high-energy DJ events, it hosted memorable performances that locals still talk about. Even after its closure news came out, fans organized fundraisers and benefit shows in its name – a testament to how much it mattered to the community.
Visitor Tips and Information
Accessibility: The Firmament was wheelchair-accessible. The main floor was flat with no steps, and there was a dedicated wheelchair viewing area near the sides or back. Accessible restrooms were available as well. If you need accommodation or an ADA sign-language interpreter for a show, contact the promoter in advance to arrange seating or services.
What to Bring: Always bring a valid photo ID. Many events were 21+ or 18+, and IDs were checked at the door. If you’re bringing a bag, make sure it’s small – the venue flattened out bag checks but large backpacks were denied. Earplugs were also recommended if you are sensitive to loud music. You could bring your phone and a credit/debit card, but cameras with removable lenses were not allowed (phones and small point-and-shoots were fine). Cash is handy for merchandise and tip jars, though the bar took cards. People often wore comfortable clothing and shoes – no dress code was enforced.
Common Policies: The Firmament had a clear bag policy (no large totes) and did search bags at entry. No outside food or large beverage containers were allowed (the kitchen and bar sold plenty of options inside). Kicking or pushing the stage barricade was frowned upon, as it could damage gear or injure performers. Smoking was not allowed inside; there might have been a small exterior patio or sidewalk area where smoking was permitted, but primarily guests waited until outside before lighting up. Photography without flash (with a phone or small camera) was usually permitted, but professional cameras (DSLRs with telephotos) required permission. Re-entry during a show was generally not allowed – once in, you stayed in until intermission or the end. Coat check was convenient and inexpensive if you needed to stow jackets or bags.
Arrival and Timing: Doors typically opened 30–45 minutes before showtime. For a 9:00 PM concert, arriving around 8:15–8:30 PM was a good plan to beat lines and reliably find parking. If you arrived earlier, there were benches outside and some dining spots to kill time. Late arrivals would still be seated, but you might have to walk past people. Before shows, it was common to grab dinner nearby. After shows, note that the area outside can be dark and less trafficked; walk with friends or use rideshares. Taxis or rideshares often queue at the venue’s curb – a convenient way to leave quickly if you’re not driving.
Age Restrictions: Most concerts were all-ages or 18+; Raleigh’s all-ages flow meant under-18s could attend with a guardian, but it depended on the act. Any show that was 21+ was always clearly advertised. Even for all-age shows, if you were under 21 you couldn’t drink alcohol. Security would check ages at the bar as well as at the door.
Etiquette: The crowd was generally friendly and respectful. It was polite to give way at the exits during an encore and to avoid pushing to the front too roughly. The venue wasn’t known for any strict dress code – jeans, band tees, and sneakers were common. Staying modest and not bringing valuables as the floor could jostle during the show was wise. A small flashlight on your phone helped find seating or restroom paths in the dark. Above all, people came for the music, so enjoy the sound, and you’d fit right in.
What types of events were typically held at The Firmament?
The Firmament hosted mostly live music concerts, spanning many genres. You’d find rock and metal tours, hip-hop shows, indie bands, electronic dance nights, and even occasional comedy or theme nights. It booked both local/regional acts and national touring artists. Events generally ran Tuesday through Saturday evenings, with varying set times depending on the lineup.
How can I buy tickets for a show at The Firmament?
Tickets were sold through the event promoter or venue’s official channels. Typically you’d check the event listing or The Firmament’s social media for a link to an authorized ticket seller. For big shows that sold out fast, tickets could sometimes be purchased at the door if any remained. There was often a will-call box office on site on show nights. In general, it was best to buy in advance online through the listed source or fan club presales to ensure entry.
What was the typical ticket price range for concerts at The Firmament?
Ticket prices varied widely depending on the act. Smaller local shows might have been very affordable (often under $20), while major touring acts often had tickets from around $30 up to $50 or higher for premium packages. Special event prices could exceed that. In general, mid-level concerts ranged typically between $25 and $45. Early bird or student discounts sometimes applied, and VIP or meet-&-greet passes (if offered) cost more.
Was it possible to buy tickets at the door?
Yes, if the show wasn’t sold out online, a limited number of tickets could usually be purchased at the door. The Firmament had a ticket window or will-call on show nights for last-minute sales, typically accepting cash or card. However, popular shows sometimes sold out before doors, so door availability wasn’t guaranteed. It was safest to buy advance tickets if you could.
What is the seating situation – are there seats or is it general admission?
The Firmament was primarily a standing-room venue. General Admission on the main floor was the norm, with fans free to move around. There were a few scattered chairs and treating tables along the edges, but no assigned or reserved seating. Some events might have offered a limited number of VIP table spots or bar stools, but most patrons stood. Best views tended to be center-front, though the audio was strong even at the back of the hall.
Which areas of The Firmament are best for sound and viewing?
For sound quality, the sweet spot was usually about 10–20 feet back from the stage in the center of the room – you’d hear a balanced mix there. Views are best from the front center aisle (standing near the stage) or even just behind it. If you prefer less bass and space to move, standing near the middle-back or along the side walls still offered good sightlines with less crowding. Avoid standing directly next to the large subwoofer speakers at stage corners, as the bass can be overwhelming there. Note that because the venue was mostly flat on one level, no bad seats were too obstructed; everyone had a chance to see the stage.
Is The Firmament wheelchair accessible?
Yes, the main floor of The Firmament was wheelchair accessible, as it was one large level space with no steps to the stage area. The aisles and doorways met ADA width standards. There were designated areas at the sides or back of the floor for wheelchair seating or companion spaces. Accessible restrooms were available. Staff could help if you let the venue know ahead of time that you needed an accessible spot. Overall, someone using a wheelchair could attend a show there without barriers.
What items are not allowed at The Firmament?
The Firmament enforced a standard venue policy: no large backpacks, large camera lenses, outside food or drinks, or weapons of any kind. Smaller purses and drawstring bags were allowed but were subject to search. Flash photography (bright camera flashes) was prohibited, as it distracted performers. Smoking was not allowed inside the venue (some venues with similar setups have a test to smoke just outside). If you bring gear like stepladders or recording equipment, that would be disallowed without permission. Always check the specific event’s rules – Ireland often leaves prohibited items unadvertised, so assume anything bulky or hazardous is banned.
Are there age restrictions or dress codes for shows at The Firmament?
The dress code at The Firmament was casual. Concertgoers typically wore jeans, band t-shirts, and sneakers or casual shoes – basically anything comfortable for a live music venue. There was no formal attire requirement. For age restrictions, it depended on the event. Some shows were all-ages (anyone admitted), others required attendees to be at least 18 or 21. If an event was 21+, it was clearly advertised that way. People should always bring a photo ID; even at an all-ages show, IDs were checked at the bar to verify that under-21s did not drink.
Can I bring a camera into The Firmament?
You could bring a smartphone or a small point-and-shoot camera with no external flash. However, professional cameras with detachable lenses larger than about 3 inches were not permitted. Venue staff at the door would inspect cameras – so leave the DSLR or large camcorders in the car. Video recording was generally discouraged. In short, casual photos (no flash) were fine, but pro photography gear was a no-go.
Does The Firmament have a food menu or bar?
Yes. The Firmament featured an in-house bar serving beer, wine, sodas, and simple cocktails throughout events. Food was also available – uniquely, they had a pizza kitchen inside and sold made-to-order specialty pizzas (wanderlog.com ). There were also usually snack items like pretzels or chips. Fans could go to the bar area or walk up to the pizza counter during show intermissions. Prices were reasonable for a music venue (drinks and pizza comparable to local prices). Note that outside food or drink was not allowed, but the venue’s menu covered most concert cravings.
Is there a coat check or storage at The Firmament?
Yes, The Firmament offered a coat check for patrons. It was located near the entrance or lobby area. When it was open, you could leave a jacket or bag with staff for a small fee (often just a few dollars). This was useful during winter shows. The venue staff also kept an eye on unattended items in general. However, it was wise not to leave valuables there and instead keep them on you or locked in your car.
What is The Firmament’s capacity and overall size?
The Firmament was designed to hold roughly 450–550 people under seated or official capacity counts (upstatebusinessjournal.com ), but with mostly standing-room its practical capacity could reach closer to 800 on a crowded night (wanderlog.com ). The building itself is about 9,300 square feet. So it was fairly large compared to downtown bars but much smaller than arenas. This mid-size capacity meant shows felt intimate – fans were often within 20 feet of the stage – yet big enough to draw notable touring acts.
Is The Firmament an indoor venue, and what if it rains?
The Firmament was fully indoors. All concerts and events took place inside the hall, so weather was never an issue once you were inside. If it rained, the covered entrance and lobby protected people from the elements, and the show went on as scheduled. Since everything was inside, there were no weather-related cancellations short of an extreme emergency. Fans simply needed to plan parking or umbrella on the way in if needed, but once inside the show experience was unaffected by outside weather.
Is The Firmament currently open or operating?
As of 2025, The Firmament is listed as permanently closed. It originally opened in 2018 but announced its closure in January 2020 (www.wyff4.com ). There was a brief effort by the owner to reopen it in the early 2020s, but plans stalled. There are no shows scheduled and no future dates currently announced. Visitors should assume it is not open for events unless official sources state otherwise.
How can I get the latest news or updates about The Firmament?
When it was operating, The Firmament’s official Facebook page and the venue’s website were the best sources for schedules and announcements. Also local event calendars (like Greenville.com or Spartanburg.com) often listed upcoming shows. However, since the venue is currently closed, no new updates are expected. If it were to reopen, check Greenville entertainment news sites or social media for announcements, and look for statements from Andrew Peek or venue promoters. Joining local music community groups on Facebook or following Greenville news outlets can also catch any revival news.
What happened to The Firmament – why did it close?
The Firmament announced its closure in January 2020, citing financial difficulties. The owner, Andrew Peek, posted that despite passion and effort, mounting costs made it impossible to keep the venue afloat (www.wyff4.com ) (www.gofundme.com ). Shortly after, the COVID-19 pandemic hit, which further complicated any chances of reopening at that time. In 2022 Peek launched a fundraiser to revive The Firmament, but that campaign did not ultimately return the venue to full operation. In summary, a mix of financial strain and outside factors led to the venue’s shutdown.
