Ariana Grande Returns to the Stage with ‘Eternal Sunshine’ Tour Opener
After a significant hiatus from live performances, Ariana Grande has officially launched her much-anticipated “Eternal Sunshine” tour. The tour commenced this past Saturday at the Oakland Arena, marking a triumphant return to the concert stage for the global pop sensation.
A Deep Dive into the ‘Eternal Sunshine’ Setlist
As the tour’s name suggests, the “Eternal Sunshine” album, released in March 2024, heavily influences the setlist. However, Grande has strategically incorporated a broad spectrum of her discography, drawing from two studio albums released since her last tour concluded in December 2019. The 2021 album “Positions” also features prominently, alongside beloved tracks from earlier works.
The opening night’s performance featured a total of 23 songs, with “Eternal Sunshine” contributing a substantial 11 selections. “Positions” was represented by three songs, while iconic albums such as “Thank U, Next,” “Dangerous Woman,” and “My Everything” each had two tracks performed. Earlier albums, including “Yours Truly,” each offered one song, showcasing Grande’s evolution as an artist. A notable inclusion was “Rain on Me,” a collaboration with Lady Gaga, featuring pre-recorded vocals from the artist.
Fans also heard “Hate That I Made You Love Me,” the first single from Grande’s forthcoming album, “Petal,” slated for release on July 31. It remains to be seen if additional tracks from “Petal” will be added to the setlist as the tour progresses through its final dates on September 1.
Tour Logistics and Ticket Demand
The “Eternal Sunshine” tour is a curated, limited engagement, with Grande reportedly exploring diverse career interests beyond music. Following her Oakland residency, Grande is scheduled for multiple dates in the Los Angeles area, including the Crypto Arena and the Kia Forum. The North American leg will then continue through cities like Austin, Atlanta, Brooklyn, and Boston, before concluding its U.S. run on August 6. The tour will then move to London for a 10-night engagement at the O2 Arena.
Demand for tickets has been exceptionally high, with resale prices reflecting significant interest. Even obstructed-view seats are commanding prices in the hundreds, while prime seating sections are consistently exceeding $1,000. This robust demand suggests fans recognize the potentially limited opportunity to see Grande perform live, especially given her reported focus on acting endeavors.
Oakland Opening Night Setlist: June 6, 2026
- Yes, And?
- Positions
- Dandelion
- The Boy Is Mine
- Eternal Sunshine
- Just Like Magic
- Thank U, Next
- 7 Rings
- Imperfect for You
- Warm
- Safety Net
- One Last Time
- Rain on Me
- Break Free
- Twilight Zone
- Past Life
- Dangerous Woman
- Honeymoon Avenue
- Hampstead
- Into You
- Hate That I Made You Love Me
- We Can’t Be Friends (Wait for Your Love)
- Supernatural
The extensive setlist underscores Grande’s rich musical catalog and her ability to captivate audiences across generations of hits. This tour offers a compelling showcase of her artistic journey, from her early work to her latest acclaimed releases. The emphasis on varied album representation, while prioritizing her newest material, provides a balanced experience for long-time fans and new listeners alike. The high ticket prices also point to a broader trend of fervent demand for established artists returning to live touring after extended breaks. This return to the stage highlights the enduring appeal of live music and the significant connection between artists and their dedicated fan bases.
