Live Nation announced today that it is exploring plans for a new music venue in the heart of downtown Bentonville. In collaboration with the Momentary, the Bentonville Ballroom would be located adjacent to the beloved arts institution and would attract national touring acts, community events, and local performances. With a capacity of 2,500, it would add a much-needed midsize performance space to the city and complement the venue landscape in Northwest Arkansas. It would open in 2028.
Bentonville Ballroom would represent a meaningful investment in the local community and the city’s long-term future. It would provide a significant boost to nearby small and local businesses, particularly restaurants and hotels, by driving increased tourist and economic activity. It is estimated to generate $46.3 million in economic impact every year. The venue would support approximately 280 jobs, including venue employees earning starting wages of $20 per hour. In addition, the project is expected to generate approximately $4.9 million annually in state and local tax revenue.
The proposed concept by Blueprint Studio, Live Nation’s in-house design and development group, and BIG-Bjarke Ingels Group and Polk Stanley Wilcox, reflects Bentonville’s deep connection to nature. Early concepts feature natural materials, warm wood tones, and a layout that brings the Ozarks’ textures and light into the performance space. The vision is a venue that feels both modern and rooted, where art, architecture, and landscape work together to create an unforgettable setting for live music.
“Bentonville is a destination for arts and culture, and food, and the Momentary ignited the city’s music scene,” said Tom Walton, chair of the Momentary Council. “The Bentonville Ballroom will be a beautiful new cultural landmark. We’re happy to invite Live Nation to our campus. Their experience connecting artists and fans will accelerate our city's momentum with year-round, quality music experiences for residents and visitors."
“We’re honored to work with the Momentary to bring more music to Northwest Arkansas,” said Anthony Nicolaidis, Live Nation’s Arkansas Market President. “This is going to be a special room that brings major artists to Bentonville, and creates a permanent cultural asset for the city – a place where local fans can see their favorite acts without having to travel.”
Every detail will be crafted with both artists and fans in mind, from state-of-the-art acoustics and clear sightlines to comfortable gathering spaces and thoughtful amenities and premium hospitality. Premium options will be available for those seeking an elevated experience. The space will also be available for private and corporate events. The venue, including ticketing and programming, will be operated by Live Nation.
Live Nation will work with neighbors and city officials to review the proposal and share input. Priorities include a parking plan that utilizes the Momentary’s garage spaces and connects the venue to Bentonville’s strong cycling infrastructure.
"We're excited to see this investment in Bentonville's live music infrastructure and enthusiastically support the Bentonville Ballroom project,” said Kalene Griffith, president and CEO of Visit Bentonville. “Live music delivers real economic value for Bentonville and attracts audiences from our community, the region, and beyond. In addition to music, the Bentonville Ballroom will also strengthen our unconventional convention offerings and expand our capacity to host high-impact cultural and business events."
