Words by Cristina Byrne

Earlier this summer, Lana Del Rey made headlines with surprise appearances across North Alabama—most notably working a shift at a local Waffle House and recording at the legendary Muscle Shoals Sound Studio.

Now, the wait is over. The Orion Amphitheater has officially announced that Del Rey will perform this fall, igniting a wave of excitement among her devoted fanbase.

Since Monday, fans have been camping out at the venue ahead of the highly anticipated concert on Thursday, September 21. The tip line lit up with reports of tents and lawn chairs forming a makeshift community outside the amphitheater.

“People are coming from all over the country,” said fan Elizabeth Dunlap. Attendees have traveled from as far as New York City, New Mexico, California, and Seattle to see Del Rey perform.

Camping out is just one of many ways fans are showing their devotion. Many proudly wear Lana-inspired tattoos as symbols of her music's meaning to them.

“She raised us and saved us,” said Jay Pruitt, showing off a tattoo of the singer inked on his arm.

When asked what draws them to Lana and her music, the answer was unanimous: connection.

“She romanticizes the mundane—trailer parks, gas stations—and makes a simple life feel glamorous,” said fan Hannah Wilson. “She expresses my emotions for me, so I don’t have to feel bad,” added Jay. “Small-town people can still feel special,” said Anna Pruitt.

Beyond their love for Lana, the group has built lasting friendships through their fandom. Ally Hunter, Hannah Wilson, Anna Pruitt, and Elizabeth Dunlap first met during a concert campout in Atlanta, while Jay recently joined their circle.

As the big night approached, the group had a heartfelt message for Lana Del Rey: “Lana, we love you—we’ve been waiting 11 years for this,” said Anna, speaking for them all.