Live Nation Entertainment is exploring plans to develop a new 2,500-capacity music venue in downtown Bentonville, Arkansas, in partnership with The Momentary.

The proposed venue, called Bentonville Ballroom, would be built adjacent to the Momentary arts campus and is intended to attract national touring artists, community events, and local performances. If approved, the project could open in 2028 and add a much-needed mid-size concert venue to the entertainment landscape of Northwest Arkansas.

Economic Impact

Developers say the project would represent a significant cultural and economic investment in the city. Estimates indicate the venue could generate approximately $46.3 million in annual economic impact while supporting around 280 jobs. Entry-level venue positions are expected to start at about $20 per hour.

In addition to creating jobs and attracting tourism, the development could generate roughly $4.9M in annual state and local tax revenue. Concerts and events are also expected to draw more visitors to the area. Boosting activity for local businesses, particularly restaurants, hotels, and retail establishments.

Early design concept

The early design concept comes from Blueprint Studio. Live Nation’s in-house design and development group, working in collaboration with architecture firms Bjarke Ingels Group and Polk Stanley Wilcox Architects.

Design plans aim to reflect the natural landscape of the Ozark region, incorporating natural materials, wood finishes, and architectural elements that bring daylight and regional textures into the interior performance spaces. The concept is intended to create a venue that blends modern design with the surrounding environment.

Tom Walton, chair of the Momentary Council, said the project would build on Bentonville’s growing reputation as a destination for arts and culture.

“The Bentonville Ballroom will be a beautiful new cultural landmark,” Walton said. “We’re pleased to welcome Live Nation to our campus and believe their experience connecting artists and fans will help expand year-round music experiences for residents and visitors.”

Anthony Nicolaidis, Arkansas Market President for Live Nation, said the venue would provide local audiences with access to major touring acts without the need to travel to larger cities.

“This will be a special venue that brings major artists to Bentonville while creating a permanent cultural asset for the community,” Nicolaidis said.

Flexible Venue Designed for Concerts and Private Event

According to the proposal, the facility will feature modern acoustics, unobstructed sightlines, and flexible gathering areas to enhance the concert experience for both performers and audiences. The venue will offer premium hospitality options and host corporate functions, private events, and other non-concert programming.

Live Nation would operate the venue, including event programming and ticketing operations.

The company plans to work with local officials and community stakeholders as the proposal moves forward. One focus area will be transportation and parking, including the potential use of existing garage spaces at the Momentary and connections to Bentonville’s cycling infrastructure.

Kalene Griffith, President and CEO of Visit Bentonville, said the project would strengthen the city’s position as a regional destination for entertainment and events.

“Live music brings significant economic value to Bentonville and attracts visitors from across the region and beyond,” Griffith said. “In addition to concerts, the Bentonville Ballroom could help expand the city’s ability to host cultural, business, and convention events.”

The proposal for the Bentonville Ballroom reflects a broader trend of investment in live entertainment venues across the United States as cities expand their cultural and event infrastructure. Similar developments are underway elsewhere, including a planned 5,000-capacity concert hall designed by Populous as part of the OCVIBE entertainment district surrounding the Honda Center in Anaheim, California. Projects like these highlight growing demand for venues that can host touring artists, community events, and large-scale performances while supporting local economic activity.

Bentonville Ballroom – Factsheet

Location: Bentonville, Arkansas
Developer: Live Nation Entertainment
Partner Organization: The Momentary
Proposed Opening: 2028

Venue Details

• Capacity: 2,500 people

• Primary Use: Live music performances and touring acts

• Additional Uses: Community events, corporate functions, private events

• Estimated Annual Economic Impact: $46.3 million

• Projected Jobs: Approximately 280 positions

• Estimated Annual Tax Revenue: $4.9 million

Design Team

• Blueprint Studio (Live Nation in-house design group)

• Bjarke Ingels Group

• Polk Stanley Wilcox Architects

Key Design Elements

• Natural materials inspired by the Ozarks landscape

• Warm wood finishes and daylight-focused interior spaces

• Modern acoustics and clear audience sightlines

• Premium hospitality and flexible event spaces