Baltimore, MD (March 31, 2026)—National entertainment group Knitting Factory Entertainment (KFE) and local promoter/event marketer The Finn Group have announced a new partnership managing operations and talent buying for the iconic Baltimore venue Pier Six Pavilion. The city-owned, 4-600-seat amphitheater built in 1981 sits on the waterfront of the Inner Harbor, located just south of downtown Baltimore, Maryland, and is best known for its seasonal concerts that appeal to residents and visitors alike.
KFE’s talent buying duties will be handled by Talent Buyer & Event Producer Peter J. Manning, who has over 20 years of experience spearheading national bookings and driving growth for a broad portfolio of venues. As an alumnus of Loyola College of Maryland, he brings hometown bona fides while leveraging the extensive industry connections and deep-rooted relationships of the live music division Knitting Factory Presents. Manning specializes in market development and creative programming, bridging high-level talent identification and acquisition with complex on-site production logistics.
Manning says, “Returning to Baltimore to book the historic Pier Six Pavilion is a true homecoming for me. Having spent my college years in this city, I know firsthand how vital this waterfront stage is to the community’s spirit. Working with The Finn Group, Knitting Factory Entertainment is committed to elevating that legacy by bringing a vibrant, diverse mix of national talent to the Inner Harbor. Our goal is to ensure the Pavilion remains a premier destination for world-class entertainment that reflects the beautiful diversity of Baltimore itself.”
The Finn Group is a Baltimore-based marketing and events firm that is responsible for long-running cultural activations, such as AfroPreak and Jazzy Summer Nights. The group is led by Founder & President LaRian Finney, who has more than 30 years of experience working with leading nonprofits, Fortune 500 companies, and growing businesses. According to a statement released by the Baltimore Development Corporation (BDC), Director of the Mayor’s Office of Arts, Culture and Entertainment Linzy Jackson III, says The Finn Group “understands the energy, talent, and entrepreneurial spirit that defines our city.”
The partnership plans to focus on appealing to both national and local audiences, expanding opportunities for artists, producers, and vendors in the region, while also offering a wide-ranging lineup of live performances that spans genres like Latin, Afrobeats, soul, rock, R&B, jazz, and symphony. This innovative strategy, combined with a profit-sharing arrangement, is consistent with the long-term goals of the city, which BDC President & CEO Otis Rolley describes as continuing “to showcase world-class talent, deliver memorable experiences for audiences, and generate meaningful economic impact for Baltimore.”
Through commitment to and collaboration with the creative community, the partnership imagines an enhanced look and experience for this sprawling venue, fostering cultural exchange at a place “Where We Gather.”
With a number of existing concerts already on the books for 2026, the leadership hand-off hopes to begin ahead of this summer to ensure continuity for artists and fans. Patrons can likely start looking for additional programming announcements and updates this spring, as new shows are added to the concert calendar.
About Knitting Factory Entertainment
Knitting Factory Entertainment (KFE), since 1987, is a dynamic and innovative independent entertainment company renowned for its multifaceted approach within the live music industry. With a diverse portfolio that spans live music venues, concert production, talent management, hospitality, media, and record labels, KFE has established itself as a significant player in shaping the cultural landscape. Recognized as one of the top 50 concert promoters worldwide, Knitting Factory Presents collaborates with thousands of artists and bands, producing and promoting a broad spectrum of concerts and private events across the nation.
Pier Six Pavilion
Knitting Factory Entertainment
The Finn Group