Paul McCartney Rocks Columbus Nationwide Arena Show this Nov 8 & 11 2026

📅 Date: November 08 & 11 2025, 08:00 PM
📍 Venue: Nationwide Arena, Columbus, OH, USA
🎟 Tickets: High demand, buy tickets now!

Music icon Paul McCartney will take the stage at Nationwide Arena in Columbus, Ohio for two sold out shows on November 8 & 11, 2025, at 8:00 PM, as part of Paul McCartney Got Back Tour. This stop marks his first Ohio show in nine years, and excitement is already building across the city.

Opening officially on July 18 at the Greater Palm Springs, tickets for this concert sold out within hours in many cities, but verified seats remain available through paulmccartnytour.com. This performance offers long-time fans and new listeners alike a chance to experience decades of music in one unforgettable evening.

What Makes the Columbus Stop Special?

Columbus holds special significance in Paul’s touring history. While McCartney last played Nationwide Arena in 2015, that show was noted for its length, energy, and emotion—typical hallmarks of his live performances.

A fan on Reddit recalling earlier tours described his energy this way:

“Paul was 82 last night, but … the music doesn’t age so neither does the energy … a well-oiled machine.”

This show comes after successful return dates in cities like Nashville and Tulsa, making the Midwest leg of the tour particularly meaningful.

Fresh Details & Updates

The Got Back Tour continues its North American leg with 19 sold-out concerts spanning from September 29 in Palm Desert, CA, through November 25 in Chicago. Columbus is a major stop: the only public Georgia-Ohio connection on the itinerary. Notable cities include Las Vegas, New Orleans, Buffalo, Montreal, and more.

In addition to revisiting many Beatles and Wings classics, McCartney has hinted at performing deeper tracks and special city-specific tributes. Anticipation in Columbus is high as fans look forward to a unique setlist that reflects both his storied past and his current creative spirit.

McCartney Columbus Expected Setlist

McCartney’s Got Back shows typically run about 2 hours 40 minutes, covering more than 30 songs from across his catalog.

Columbus audiences can expect:

• Beatles classics such as “Blackbird” (often performed solo, high above the stage), “Here Today,” and “Something” (ukulele tribute to George Harrison)
• Wings favorites like “Let Me Roll It” (featuring a Hendrix-inspired “Foxy Lady” snippet), “Band on the Run,” and “Live and Let Die” with pyrotechnics
• Solo gems like “My Valentine,” “My Brave Face,” or “Maybe I’m Amazed”—often presented with emotional storytelling
• A personal surprise or rare track, which Paul performs in select cities, tailored to local character

The encore typically includes power-packed songs like “I’ve Got a Feeling” (with a virtual Lennon duet), “Helter Skelter,” and the medley “Golden Slumbers / Carry That Weight / The End.”

Paul McCartney’s Touring Band Lineup

Backing the legendary performer is his trusted ensemble:

• Rusty Anderson – Lead Guitar
• Brian Ray – Bass and Rhythm Guitar
• Abe Laboriel Jr. – Drums
• Paul “Wix” Wickens – Keyboards, Musical Director
• Hot City Horns – Brass trio adding punch to every track

First joining McCartney in 2018, the Hot City Horns bring a fresh, dynamic layer to live shows, especially on tracks like “Got to Get You Into My Life” and “Ob‑La‑Di, Ob‑La‑Da.”

This ensemble’s chemistry translates to precise yet soulful performances night after night.

Nationwide Arena: Venue Overview & Tips

Columbus’ Nationwide Arena is known for its excellent sound clarity and fan-friendly design. It hosts up to 18,500, giving the final leg of McCartney’s tour a large but intimate feel.

Seating Tips

• Floor sections offer up-close access but require early arrival to beat the crowds.
• Lower bowl sections (like 100–104, 110–114) offer a balance of sound and visibility.
• Upper tiers feature large video screens and comfortable acoustics that ensure top-level shows from every seat.

Parking & Access

• Public garages such as Arena District Garage and Nationwide Parkway Garage are within walking distance.
• Rideshare drop-off zones are located near the plaza entrance.
• The arena is fully ADA compliant, offering accessible seating, elevators, and hearing assistance. Guests with special needs are encouraged to contact the venue in advance.

Columbus Culture & Pre-Show Activities

Attending the concert creates a great excuse to explore Columbus—rich in art, music, and local flavor.

• Dining Nearby: Try North Market for eclectic local bites, or Cap City Diner for beloved comfort food within easy walking distance of the arena.
• Local Scene: Columbus is home to the annual Sgt. Peppercorn’s Marathon, a play-through of the entire Beatles catalog. In 2019, McCartney introduced the marathon by video, celebrating the city’s devotion to Beatles history.
• Lodging: Nearby stays include Le Méridien Columbus The Joseph, Hilton Columbus Downtown, and Residence Inn Columbus—all a short walk to the venue.

What Critics & Fans Are Saying

Reviewers consistently note McCartney’s endurance and connection to fans. Variety praised his show structure, calling it a “winning formula” of rockers, acoustic interludes, and an emotional wrap. In Winston‑Salem, the show was described as “a dream” despite logistical challenges, while Miami New Times noted the humor, lasers, and warmth that made the concert shine.

One fan on Reddit summed it up best:

“Well‑oiled machine… Paul is the most important musician of the last 100 years.”

Buy Paul McCartney Columbus Tickets

Although many markets have sold out, tickets for the Columbus shows remain available safely and securely via our trusted reslling partner.

Our reslling platform guarantees genuine seats, up-to-date availability, and a seamless checkout experience.

With limited seats left, fans are encouraged to secure their spot early and prepare for a highlight night in Columbus, witnessing one of rock’s most enduring legends live on stage.

Paul McCartney’s Columbus concert is going to be a perfect one, part of the Got Back Tour—featuring decades of music, compelling storytelling, and top-tier performance quality. Whether you’re dancing to Beatles hits or being moved by a tender solo number, this show is an emotional, nostalgic, body-moving experience.